subject: Postgraduate education [print this page] Postgraduate education Postgraduate education
In the UK, the term postgraduate is used for master's and PhD studies, usually indicating further study for a student who already has a first degree (this is the equivalent of graduate study, the term used in the US).study us There are four main areas of postgraduate education in the UK.
Pre-master's
Pre-master's courses are for students who want to study a master's degree but feel they need to brush up on their study skills, improve their English or simply adjust to life as a student again. They usually last between six months and a year and most include modules on academic study methods, research, computing skills, data analysis, interviewing, academic referencing and essay writing.
Postgraduate certificates and diplomas
There is a huge range of subjects available at this level. Often they are accepted as a professional qualification in their field. Many postgraduate diplomas are similar to master's degrees, although you will probably not need to write a dissertation. Some of these courses enable you to transfer to a master's course on completion
Master's courses
These are two ways you can take a master's course: via taught or research methods
Taught master's (MA, MSc, MBA)
A taught master's usually involves a number of taught modules, as well as the researching and writing of a dissertation with the guidance of a supervisor - normally an expert in the field. They generally last for one year of full-time study.
Research master's (MRes, MPhil)
If you're taking a research master's, rather than attending lectures and seminars you will devote all of your time to academic research. Some courses allow you to take a taught element, but your final mark will be on the quality of your dissertation.
Doctorate (PhD)
A PhD is the most common doctoral degree, which requires students to produce an original piece of significant research and write a dissertation under the guidance of one or possibly two tutors. While the PhD is the most common way to gain a doctorate, professional doctorates and New Route PhDs are becoming popular alternatives and involve a taught element with the research. The complete cycle of doctoral work may take anywhere between five to eight years.
Postgraduate eligibility criteria
Undergraduate degree
You will usually be required to have completed an undergraduate (bachelor's) degree of at least three years in length to enter a master's programme. For a doctorate, you will be required to have a postgraduate degree such as a master's or equivalent already.
Admissions tests
Generally your previous education and application (which might include an interview) will be the deciding factor in whether you are accepted. The only exception is that you may be required to take a GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) and reach a certain score in order to be accepted on an MBA course.study us
You will also have to prove you have sufficient English language ability by providing your IELTS score or other approved English language test.
Postgraduate application process
Most institutions in the UK have their own method and timetable for postgraduate applications. You should start your application process between 12 to 18 months before your intended study date in order to research the different institutions and complete any necessary tests as well as to research possible funding and scholarship opportunities. Once you have made your shortlist of institutions you wish to apply for, you'll have to prepare your application.
Each institution sets its own application deadline. These are usually between January and March, although they can be earlier or later. It's always a good idea to submit your application as soon as possible.
Applications are made directly to the institution, and usually include
- Application form
- Academic credentials: certified copies of original diplomas, degrees or professional titles and university transcripts (grade awarded)
- Personal statement where you must clearly outline your academic ambitions goals and achievements
- If taking a research degree, you may need to provide an outline of your research profile
- Recommendation letters, usually from a teacher or employer who will be able to write about your work and potential
- Some universities may require a financial statement to confirm you have the funds to cover your undergraduate education
- Some universities will want to interview students. University staff or alumni may conduct these interviews, usually over the phone.
- Exceptions to the above include teaching courses where you apply through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR) and some social work courses where you apply through UCAS.
Online courses
Online courses incorporate a range of delivery methods and many programmes can be studied entirely in your own country. You may therefore be able to complete the whole course without travelling to Australia, Singapore or the UK and the USA for workshops or seminars, while others may require some form of attendance in Australia, Singapore or the UK and USA or at local partner institutions. Check with your chosen institution to find out if the course is 100% online or if any attendance is required.
