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postgraduate courses
Types of taught courses There are a number of different taught programmes in the UK, covering a full range of subjects. Masters programme (e.g. MA, MBA, MSc, MRes):- Masters of Arts (MA) courses cover arts, business and social sciences, as well as some science subjects.
- The MBA is the most well-known Masters qualification for business, but tuition fees are expensive. Masters courses in project management are becoming very popular as an alternative (sometimes taken as an MA or MSc).
- Masters of Science (MSc) and Masters of Research (MRes) are awarded for science and social science courses. Although the two types are very similar, the MRes course must guarantee that at least 60% of its content is individual research project work, as it is more geared to those wishing to pursue a research career afterwards. The MRes may sometimes attract more funding.
A Masters is likely to last 12 months (or more) full time, or two years (or more) part time and may: - involve a detailed study of a particular aspect of your academic discipline;
- be vocational and lead to exemptions and/or a professional qualification;
- be a conversion course developing your knowledge and skills in a new subject.
Postgraduate diploma/certificate (e.g. journalism, science communication):- is likely to last nine months full time;
- may provide the professional qualification needed for a particular career;
- may be the initial stages of a taught Masters award.
Other specialist courses may:- give you an advantage in the job market;
- provide a platform for a change of career direction.
back to top Modes of studyWith many self-funding postgraduate students dividing their time between work and study and professionals wanting to continue their career alongside studying, universities are offering an increasing number of part-time, flexible, distance and online learning Masters courses. The concept that learning should be part of any stage of your working life is referred to as ‘lifelong learning’. Find out more at Lifelong Learning. Each mode of study is very different. It is important to determine if your chosen mode will be right for you. Positives can include: - study fits in with commitments such as work or childcare;
- the course is taught over a longer period which allows more time for development.
Negatives to consider: - it can be difficult to find the time and motivation to study after work.
- in the case of distance learning candidates can feel isolated and miss peer interaction.
Not all HE courses are available on a part-time, flexible or distance-learning basis. Your chosen university may have a Centre for Lifelong Learning that can provide specialist advice. back to top Future prospectsYour academic qualification alone may not get you a job. It will be important, and even crucial, but may not be the deciding factor, especially if there are other candidates who can offer the same academic qualifications as you. Think about the other skills and experience an employer may be seeking and use any opportunity to develop these.
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