Postgraduate courses in the UK
To begin a postgraduate degree in the UK, an undergraduate qualification is usually required. In rare circumstances where this is not the case, like an MBA or business course, a great deal of work experience relevant to the program is needed as an alternative.
Postgraduate degrees in the UK last just one year compared to two-year courses offered in other countries. You can therefore save money and time, returning to work within one year.
A study by the Higher Education Statistics Agency carried out in 2013 showed that 85 per cent of those who completed postgraduate degrees were in full-time employment following graduation, compared to 73 per cent of first degree graduates.
Why study a Postgraduate degree in the UK?
- Improve your career prospects – certain careers require a postgraduate qualification
- Internationally recognised qualifications of the highest standard
- The majority of postgraduates earn more over the course of their career
- Strong vocational foundation and good links with businesses/professional organisations
- A part-time postgraduate course means study can be shaped around your calendar
- Studying in the UK will improve your English, the most important language in international business
- Ability to build a strong network of contacts
Types of Postgraduate degree
Taught courses generally last for just one year. Students will be assigned a tutor, and then weekly seminars and lectures will take place, divided into modules. Assessment will be via exam and/or dissertation.
Research degrees are completely different to taught degrees in that students will take much more responsibility for their work and schedule. The study is based around a substantial research project – often reaching up to 80,000 words – written as a thesis which then must be defended in an oral examination. A PhD is the most well known research degree.
How much does a Postgraduate degree cost?
As student loans are generally not available to postgraduate students, the need to ensure you can meet the budgetary requirements for studying a postgraduate degree is crucial.
While course fees vary, the cost of living is something in your control when deciding in which part of the UK you wish to study. London is the most expensive part of the UK to settle in, with housing and travel significantly higher in cost than anywhere in Manchester or Leeds for example.
Postgraduate schools in the UK are far less expensive than graduate schools in the USA. The cost varies by course and institution, but can be from 30 per cent to 60 per cent cheaper than American equivalents.
- Arts and humanities courses: £9,000 – £13,000 per year
- Science courses: £9,500 – £15,000 per year
- Clinical courses: £20,000 – £24,000 per year
- MBA: £6,000 – £60,000 per year
How SI-UK can help with your application
If you wish to learn more about postgraduate study and where you can do it, arrange your free consultation today. Worried about not having good enough grades or English to start postgraduate study? Visit our dedicated IELTS Language Centre to improve your score.