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Further study and funding

There are many reasons for considering further study. For some, further qualifications are essential to access a particular career, for others the focus is on improving job prospects or allowing for a change in direction. Alternatively, it may represent academic challenge, specialisation or more time to decide on your career options. Whatever your motivation you should be clear in your own mind what you hope to achieve by continuing your studies and the opportunities further qualifications may or may not provide.

Taught Masters courses (MA, MSc, MRes, MBA)

Taught Masters are usually one year full-time or two year part-time courses. Successful completion often involves passing exams at the required level and submitting a dissertation on a relevant topic. Courses usually start in September/October and exams are often held at the end of each taught element. The dissertation is usually completed by the following September.

Having a Masters qualification may make you more employable. It is always advisable to undertake the work-experience module of your course as this will increase not just your employability but also your knowledge of the employment world. Employers will always place emphasis on your employability skills, such as team work, problem solving and European languages, as requirements for the job. A Masters qualification can also be the first step to further research study qualifications such as an MPhil, PhD or Doctorate.

MBA courses enable you to study business related topics in depth, add formal qualifications to relevant practical experience and potentially improve your earning power.

Most (though not all) Masters courses will require direct applications to the individual university rather than via a central clearing system. You will find instructions on each university’s website. To apply for a Masters course you should:

• Research courses that suit your needs (more in depth knowledge, greater breadth of knowledge, addition of new skills and knowledge, vocational training).
• Prepare a list of Institutions that offer the course. Do check the course content thoroughly. Courses with the same title do not necessarily cover the same topics.
  Get the course information and application form from each Institution to which you wish to apply.
• Apply as soon as you can - while some courses still have places in the September in which they begin, some are full months in advance. Examples of popular courses are Public Relations and media related courses.
• Ideally have as a minimum a 2:2 degree, but do check with the Course Tutor as admission on to a course will be dependent upon individual circumstances.
  

Professional or vocational diplomas (PG Cert, Diploma Social Work, LPC)

Professional (vocational) qualifications enable you to study a subject that is specifically vocational in order to enter a profession that requires specialist pre-entry training or progress your career by studying part-time while you are working. Examples include Law, Social Work, Clinical Psychology, Journalism and Teaching. There are many others and you should research your career ideas to find out if any vocational training is required. Some courses require applications to be made via a central clearing system, others direct to the individual university. You will find instructions on each university’s website.

Research (PhD, MPhil, EdD)

Postgraduate research can enable you to spend time researching a topic of particular interest to you, become expert in a specialist field, develop new ideas and research methods and take your first steps towards an academic career.

It represents two – four years of original research and you may be required to have completed a Masters qualification first. It represents a significant commitment and you should feel passionate about your subject and be able to write a convincing and articulate research proposal at the time of application. It is examined by thesis and viva.