Postgraduate study
Further study is a huge commitment in terms of time and money, so it’s important to understand it properly to make sure it’s the right option for you.
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In this guide:
Why continue your studies
Postgraduate study can open new career paths to you both inside and outside of academia but be aware that additional qualifications alone won’t guarantee you a job. You still need to make it clear what your motivations were for further study and why it’s made you a stronger candidate.
If your main motivation for further study is to improve your chances of succeeding in your chosen sector, make sure you know what qualification (if any) is most sought after by employers. The answer might be none – some value practical experience more than qualifications.
If you’re considering postgraduate study because you want an academic career, make sure you’ve done some research into how realistic a goal this is in your chosen field.
You may want to study at postgraduate level:
- If you need it for your chosen profession and to demonstrate commitment to the profession
- To take the first step towards an academic career
- To meet like-minded people and start building a professional network
- If your home country standard is four to five years in higher education, rather than the UK 3-year standard
Points to consider:
- Why do you want to study at postgraduate level?
- What are your reasons for studying at a particular institution?
- Why does a course interest you? Are there specific aspects?
- Is it taught or research based?
- Do you meet the entry requirements?
- How might it help you further your career goals?
Options
Master’s
Most commonly an MSc or an MA, these are year-long taught programmes, requiring in-depth study and a significant research project or dissertation. Some master’s courses are theoretical, while others have a more vocational focus or research-based. Applications tend to be made directly to the institution.
Graduate diplomas
Also known as conversion courses, these are similar to a master’s but without the dissertation. These are typically a bridge into a profession, e.g. the graduate diploma in law (GDL) provides a fast-track route for non-law graduates into the legal profession.
Postgraduate professional qualifications
Some professions have an examination system to ensure those working in it have the required knowledge and ability.
These are studied while working, and often your employer will support you in ways such as paying the fees and allowing you study leave. Examples include the ACCA accountancy exam and the PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education).
PhD
Also known as a doctorate, this is a research degree required for an academic career which consists of a large research project generally lasting between three and four years.
You may need to complete a master’s before undertaking a PhD although this may not always be the case.
Search websites such as jobs.ac.uk and findaphd.com to view available PhDs, or contact departments or potential supervisors with linked areas of interest directly.
Funding
Funding postgraduate study is more complex than at undergraduate level, and it may be that you need to fund your study through a variety of smaller sources.
Start by looking at the website of the institutions you’re applying to, as they’ll tell you whether there are any bursaries or Research Council funding available. For more info on funding from UK research and innovation, see ukri.org.
The funding available to you will differ according to the subject you’re studying. Some government funding is available for courses in healthcare, social work and teaching, while employers may be willing to fund study in engineering and the sciences. Some charities and organisations offer grants and scholarships across a range of disciplines.
Postgraduate loans are now available for EU nationals applying for a master’s, or many high street banks offer career development loans.
Make sure you’re well informed on the different options available by using sites such as:
Use your careers department and speak to academics within your department, particularly if you’re applying to the same institution for postgraduate study.
Some students opt for part-time study if there’s no funding available, particularly at master’s level. This allows you to spread your payments out, and
Applying
Most institutions require you to apply to them directly, although some take applications through a centralised system such as UCAS. Check the website of all universities you’re applying to, and if in doubt contact their admissions office.
You’ll normally be required to submit academic references, a transcript, an application form and a personal statement. This should highlight your experiences and motivation for the subject and institution. Carefully follow the instructions given.
Personal statement tips
- Write a different statement for each application. Personalise each personal statement to the specific course and the institution
- Leave plenty of time – it can be tough to write a good one
- Keep the tone positive and enthusiastic
- Don’t use overly long sentences
- If the length hasn’t been specified by the course provider, you should aim for one side of A4
- Ask someone (a careers consultant or an academic) to review it before submitting
What you should mention:
- Why you are choosing to apply for further study, and that particular course
- Which topics particularly interest you, and why?
- How would you like to broaden your research?
- Examples of your proven academic ability
- Details of any extracurricular activity, work experience or other skills providing they reinforce your interest in the subject or show your strength as a candidate
- How the course fit into your future career or research plans