Starting a PhD before I finish an MA?

[TessoftheD]

I'm half way through an arts MA but have spotted a PhD studentship that is right up my street - does anyone know whether it would be worth applying and trying to do them both (I've got another year of the MA but the funding would mean I could give up my part time job and just study) - don't know whether they'd let me do that though?

I'd only do a PhD if it would actually get you somewhere. An MA is quite an achievement in itself. I wouldn't start on the PhD just as a way out of a part-time job. It's hard work and a long-time commitment (a few years). Finish the MA first, by the end you'll probably have had enough of studying for a while Good luck.

Thanks cthea - I definitely want to do a PhD though, and as funding is so scarce and this one is in the right geographical area I'd hate to miss the chance - it's not just to get out of working part time!

Many universities have rules that you can't be registered on two degrees at the same time - you would need to check that with the one you are doing and the one you are applying to.
Most PhD studentships go to people who already have their MA or at least have done enough of it to show a proven track record of research - it would be a disadvantage not to, I think. However if it is a subject that is really suitable for you and there aren't many people applying with the right background, you may be lucky - good luck!

In all likelihood that you will not be allowed to be registered for both at the smae time. But in any case, if it was up to 6 months overlap I think it might be doable - but a year is too long IMO. You would almost certainly over-run your funding. Realistically, you are likely to do that anyway (I speak from experience - and most people I know have gone into a fourth unfunded year to write up).

If you want to apply, speak to the graduate admissions admin at that university and see what the regulations are wrt still being registered for an MA and not having your MA when starting.