Apologies if this is a silly question. I am thinking of pursuing a career in lecturing and would like to undertake a PhD. Firstly would anyone be able to point me in the direction of any website that provide a comprehensive insight into academia as a career choice?

Also to answer the question is a masters required

I think it depends on your field of study. I know in the sciences a masters is not essential if you have a good undergrad degree. However from what I have read on here a masters is more often than not required for arts/humanities subjects.

No idea of any websites giving insight into academia as a career choice. Maybe you could talk to some of your lecturers (if you are still at uni) and ask them about a career in academia.

This was posted recently on another thread about the life of a lecturer - it might put you off though! http://www.kevinboone.com/university.html

You could also check The Guardian Education and the Times Higher Educational Supplements, either the newspapers or online, for an overview of HE in this country. And browse this forum for other honest insights! :-)

No idea about whether masters are essential for business and marketing - have you checked the prospective applicant info on individual uni websites, it might depend on the candidate.

I did a PhD and only did a BSc first.. I think it depends on the grade you get and the subject you are planning on doing a PhD in.

In lab based fields, no. Unless your Bachelor's was very broad and you want some more specialist knowledge.

I went straight from BSc to phd and actually wish I had taken the time to do a masters.. i think that year gives you a chance to think about what you reallyw ant to research instead of what you tHINk you want to research... as in my case... now I am 2 years into it and if I could go back, I would have chosen another topic...

good luck...