<p>So I’m not too familiar with the exact details of these programs. Let’s say you graduate with your BS in Engineering, and market salary is about 50-60k. Is Merck going to pay you 50-60k for the 5-6 years it takes to get your PhD, or does your salary get bumped up after you get your MS, or what? Also, since a PhD program is certainly a full-time job and then some, what are your responsibilities during this time, if any? In other words, are you working two full time jobs, or are they paying you simply so they can lock you up for 3-5 years for below-market salaries? Why wouldn’t it be in Merck’s interest to just hire fresh PhDs from top schools? There must be something in it for the company.</p>