> I managed to get my MS in CS back in the early 90s in one calendar year. I had full support via a fellowship since I was one of the top students, so I did not

> I managed to get my MS in CS back in the early 90s in one calendar year. I had full support via a fellowship since I was one of the top students, so I did not have to be an RA or TA, and could take additional classes. Unfortunately that strategy is only valid in the US, where higher education is inexplicably, absurdly and unjustifiably expensive. In countries where higher education is affordable, it still makes absolutely no sense to look at a PhD as anything other than a pastime that makes sense only as a personal pursuit.