Postgraduate study
Is postgraduate study for you?
The first step into postgraduate study is usually a masters or a shorter postgraduate certificate (PGCert) or postgraduate diploma (PGDip) course. You can browse universities and course providers on targetjobs if you are ready to explore your options.
But undertaking further study is a big commitment and so it’s worth taking the time to think about whether it is right for you. It is a good next step if you want to ‘convert’ to a career needing a specific academic background or vocational training, or if you want a career in academia. It can also be a good next step if you are passionate about a subject and want to learn more – or if you want to acquire specific skills. But if you are only doing it because you are not sure what else to do, you may find that the expense outweighs the benefits.
Applying for further study
Application success
In most cases, you apply directly to the course provider or university via an application form (teaching and law are notable exceptions). On your application form, you can expect to be asked for your standard biographical, educational and work experience details – but the key section is your personal statement. Here is where you write about your passion for the subject, how the course would help you achieve your ambitions, why you particularly want to study at this institution and why you would make a good student. For some courses, such as in journalism or nursing, you may also need to submit a portfolio and/or attend an interview.
Read our quick tips for application success and then go on to our advice about choosing your referees .
Student finances
Funding your masters
Depending on the institution and your mode of study, a masters will cost UK students somewhere between £4,000 and £23,000 (PGCerts and PGDips less).
Many students take a postgraduate loan from the government − they are available at both masters and doctorate level (PGCerts and PGDips aren’t eligible). But do seek out scholarships, bursaries and grants. For example, the UK government offers scholarships and bursaries in areas such as teaching and healthcare; the Inns of Court offer them for aspiring barristers; and many universities and charities offer grants to particular student cohorts, such as students with disabilities or those facing economic hardship.
It’s worth noting, too, that some employers will fund a conversion course if you agree to work for them afterwards.
Popular areas of study
Teaching, law and STEM
Those who can… teach
There are several routes to gaining qualified teaching status – a PGCE (postgraduate certificate in education) is arguably the most well-known, but not the only one.
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