American Degree.

DW... unfortunately, the practice is less common in North America. Typically, a terminal degree is a requirement for entry into research institutes or R&D wings of multinationals.

I quite laud and admire the research oriented learning and development models in Europe esp. Germany where there is extensive collaboration among employers and sponsor organizations to facilitate research opportunities. Also, there's lesser bureaucracy and mandated progression paths for students who wish to pursue these options.