Re: Of these US schools, which are the best? (study abroad options)
I am in agreement with pak-one here, you must really consider UIUC or UT-Austin.
LBG,
from what I have seen, some people do get enrolled in PhD programs and take courses so as to complete their Masters degree requirements ASAP. Also, PhD requires the student to clear a qualifier exam within a certain number of attempts. I have seen people NOT clearing the qualifier, but completing the MS degree requirements and then leaving with a MS degree.
I have never seen a case when a student who was enrolled for a Ph D program and wants to leave with a MS being penalized for that in terms of being asked to return the money back. The worst I have seen is the school deciding to withdraw funding to the student once they know about your intent. It will be good to maintain a good relations with your advisor, even if you leave after MS.
Within the context of a PhD program, what are the usual requirements for the MA award?
Here most people still do MA's as a terminal degree in there own right.
Which schools have good funding?
I start my MA in October, would I require a pass with merit or higher to stand a chance of PhD enrolement at a good US school?