The Ultimate Guide To Postgraduate Study

What is postgraduate study?

Postgraduate study is further study after your undergraduate degree, which could be a bachelor’s or integrated master’s degree. Some postgraduate courses require you to have particular undergraduate degrees, others don’t. There are four main types of postgraduate courses available: taught courses, research degrees, conversion courses, and professional qualifications. Most of these are taught at university, but some are taught through workplaces.

This helpful tool will guide you through everything you need to know about postgraduate study in the UK.

Taught courses

The most common types of taught courses are master’s degrees. There are several available, including Master of Arts (MA), Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Master of Science (MSc).

MA

The MA is offered in arts, humanities, and some social science subjects, and lasts 1–2 years. At the University of Oxford, the MA equivalent is called the Master of Studies (MSt) and is a 9-month course. You can complete them on a fulltime or part-time basis, depending on whether you would like to work alongside it or not.

MBA

The MBA is a prestigious qualification in the field of business, and usually lasts 12–15 months, though it can be longer. An MBA is unlike other master’s degrees in that you don’t normally study for one straight after your undergraduate degree, but instead have a few years of professional experience.

MSc / MRes

The Master of Science (MSc) is available in scientific subjects. The MSc can be either a taught or a research degree, and it lasts 1–2 years. In engineering, the equivalent degree is called the Master of Science in Engineering, abbreviated MSc (Eng), which also lasts 1–2 years. There is also the Master of Research (MRes) degree, which is predominantly research-focused, with a smaller taught component. The MRes degree normally involves writing a dissertation or project and lasts 1–2 years. Like the MA, these can usually be taken on a part-time basis if you cannot or do not wish to commit to full-time study.

Postgraduate certificates and diplomas

Lesser-known taught courses are the postgraduate certificates and postgraduate diplomas. These are considered to be more advanced than bachelor’s degrees, but less advanced than master’s degrees. Both postgraduate certificates and postgraduate diplomas require you to write a dissertation. Postgraduate certificates and postgraduate diplomas are both shorter than master’s degrees, lasting approximately 4 and 9 months, respectively.

Research degrees

MPhil

In addition to the MSc, MSc(Eng), and MRes, there is another type of research master’s, the Master of Philosophy (MPhil). The MPhil is more similar to a PhD/DPhil than the other master’s degrees, as it is entirely research-focused, and involves writing a thesis. The main difference between an MPhil and a PhD/DPhil is the length of the thesis; MPhil theses are shorter. MPhil degrees last 2 years, and it may be possible to directly “upgrade” to a PhD/DPhil by studying for an additional year or more.

Doctorates

The other main types of research degrees are the doctorates. The main type is the Doctor of Philosophy, which is abbreviated to either PhD or DPhil. The PhD is awarded at most UK universities, while the DPhil is awarded at the Universities of Sussex and Oxford only. In the UK, PhD/DPhil degrees usually last between 3 and 4 years. As a PhD/DPhil student, you must carry out many months of new, publishable research before writing it up as a thesis at the end. Before you are awarded the degree, you must defend your thesis in front of 2 examiners in an oral examination called the viva. If you pass the viva, you usually have to make some corrections to your thesis and have them approved before you graduate.

Less traditional than the PhD/DPhil are the integrated PhD, also called the “new route PhD”, and professional doctorate.

In integrated PhD courses, you study for a 1-year MRes before moving onto a 3-year PhD. These courses are only offered at a handful of universities in the UK. Integrated courses include taught modules, practical elements, and research, meaning they allow you to develop a wide range of academic skills.

Professional doctorates are mainly aimed at people working in vocational careers, including healthcare, education, and engineering. These courses have a significant taught component, and a smaller research component. Professional doctorates are often studied on a part-time basis, and they can last anywhere between 2 and 8 years. Projects often deal with real-life issues of interest to your employer. Some professional doctorates are accredited by a professional body, for example, the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Conversion and vocational courses

Conversion courses are intense courses which allow you to develop skills complementary to your undergraduate degree or professional career. These courses can last anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on whether the course is full- or part-time. Conversion courses are usually vocational, and are offered in the following subjects: Law, Medicine, Nursing, Education, Psychology, Social Work, and Business.

Professional qualifications are vocational courses relating to a specific career path or industry. These courses are often awarded by a professional organisation to ensure work meets industry standards. For some industries, professional qualifications are essential. For example, to become a qualified solicitor, you must undertake the legal practice course (LPC). For some careers, they are not essential, but add to your CV and may increase your chance of success.

Why undertake postgraduate study?

There are several reasons why you might want to carry out postgraduate study. You might need a postgraduate qualification to meet the entry requirements for a job or PhD course. You might want to gain a better understanding of your subject or gain knowledge, skills, and contacts for a particular industry. Alternatively, you might have enjoyed your undergraduate degree immensely, and want to delve into your chosen subject further.

What are the requirements for postgraduate study?

These vary for each course, so make sure you check with your preferred institution before applying.

Master’s and Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas

For master’s courses, you usually need a good second-class honours degree or above in a relevant subject. Some institutions and courses require a 2:1 or above, others a 2:2. Some entry requirements include a particular degree percentage. For the MBA course, you also need to have work experience (minimum of 3 years of full-time work), and take an additional examination. Some business schools have their own entrance test, while others use the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). If you’re an international student, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 for entrance into an MBA course.

For postgraduate certificates and diplomas, the entry requirements are the same as master’s degrees: a 2:1, or sometimes a 2:2, honours undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.

PhD / DPhil

For doctorates, in addition to an undergraduate degree, you’ll need a research degree or one with a research component. This could mean you have a bachelor’s and either an MRes or MPhil. Alternatively, you may have an integrated master’s degree. Experience in working alone on a project is also desirable, and being able to demonstrate good written and oral communication skills will boost your application.

Conversion courses

For conversion courses, you almost always need a 2:1 bachelor’s degree, but, unlike the courses above, this can be in any subject. It may be possible to enter a course with a 2:2 and relevant work experience, as the latter strengthens your application.

Professional qualifications

For professional qualifications, the entry requirements vary. For the legal practice course (LPC), you need either a law degree or the graduate diploma in law (GDL). For the association of chartered accountants (ACA) qualification, you need A-levels (or equivalent). You don’t need an undergraduate degree, but it is desirable in some fields.

How do I choose a university for further study?

Choosing a university can be difficult. When you begin searching, you should know which subject, or even which course, you want to study. It’s important to think about the type of university you prefer. For example, do you prefer small or large universities? What’s more important to you: a university’s reputation for research or teaching? You should also consider where in the UK you want to study. Would you like an urban or rural location? You may need or want access to specific opportunities or facilities, for example, societies, subject libraries, or sports facilities.

There are lots of different places to learn more about individual universities, departments and courses. You can start by looking at university websites and online profiles. It’s also advisable to attend open days, as you can often gain a better feel for a university by attending in person. You could ask lecturers, friends or family for advice too, if you know people who are familiar with the university or course you’re considering.

If you’re a student of Engineering or Medicine, read our lists of the top universities in the world for these subjects. 

Which universities are the best in the UK for postgraduate study?

The UK has a wide range of academic institutions, located all over the country. You can rank them by using university and subject league tables which are published online by several organisations. Specific tables exist for postgraduate study, such as Find A Master’s. Rankings will vary depending on the source and year.

Oxbridge

The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge have made a name for themselves as the oldest and best universities in the UK, and are known collectively as “Oxbridge”. Both universities have an excellent national and international reputation.

Oxford and Cambridge are unusual for UK universities in that they are made up of colleges. In Oxbridge, all students, both undergraduate and graduate, are a member of a college. Colleges are not only part of the university but are also separate academic institutions. Colleges are physical buildings, but more importantly, they are academic and social communities. Colleges provide teaching, welfare, and support for students, as well as facilities, including libraries, dining halls, and sports facilities.

All graduate students are members of a middle common room (MCR), which provide social events. Graduate students can sometimes live in college, normally only in their first year. However, this depends on the amount of graduate accommodation available, which varies widely by college. When you apply to Oxford and Cambridge, you can choose to apply to a specific college or submit an open application, meaning that you will be assigned a college.

Capital cities: London and Edinburgh

Another top UK university is Imperial College London, known as “Imperial”. Imperial is located in London, the UK’s capital city. Imperial is unique in the UK in that it only offers courses in the fields of science, engineering, medicine and business. However, there is a wide range of taught and research courses available. All Imperial degrees are complemented by a professional development programme, which takes place in their graduate school.

The University of Edinburgh is also a top UK option, and is based in Scotland’s capital. Edinburgh is one of the world’s top universities, with excellence and innovation in both research and teaching. There are many taught and research courses available, more than 60 of which are online, providing a flexible option for further study. In terms of the employability of its graduates, Edinburgh is ranked in the top 10 in the UK and top 100 in the world. Edinburgh’s graduates are also among the UK’s top earners.

How do I apply for postgraduate study?

There is no centralised admissions system for postgraduate study in the UK. The exception is UCAS Postgraduate, an online system which only covers some courses. For more details, check their website.

In general, you must apply to each university directly, using their individual admissions system. You may also have to pay an application fee. Make sure you check the application deadlines for your desired university and course, as these can be early in the academic year, for example, December.

Which jobs can I get after my postgraduate study?

For master’s graduates, the most popular job sectors are business and finance, human resources (HR), education, healthcare, and management. It is important to note that, in the current job market, master’s graduates typically compete with graduates with first-class bachelor’s degrees.

For PhD graduates, only about 1 in 3 remain in academia, getting jobs as university researchers or higher education teaching professionals. The remaining proportion of graduates go into non-academic roles. The most popular roles are clinical psychologists, biochemists, medical scientists and medical practitioners.

For the most part, Education, Law, and Medicine graduates enter the relevant vocational careers.

How much does postgraduate study cost?

Fees depend on the level and duration of a course. Postgraduate certificates and diplomas are generally cheaper than master’s courses. In turn, master’s courses tend to be cheaper than doctorates. An MBA normally costs more than a PhD.

Fees for UK “home” students range from around £5,000 to £30,000 per year. The average fee is approximately £11,000 per year.

Fees for international students are generally higher than for “home” students. Fees for international students range from around £8,000 to £30,000 per year, with an average of £11,000 per year. EU passport holders can often pay “home” fees, and other international students may also qualify. For more details, check the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.

Loans

In terms of funding, there are multiple sources available. Of course, you can use your own funds to pay for your degree. However, you may not have enough money saved to do this. There are postgraduate loans available to cover your degree costs, including a new loan for master’s degrees. It is for British citizens, but some international students may also be eligible so it’s worth taking a look. Some banks will offer loans to fund MBA students.

Scholarships and bursaries

Before you commit to a postgraduate loan, make sure you check whether you are eligible for any scholarships or bursaries, as unlike loans these don’t have to be repaid. Scholarships and bursaries are provided by universities and colleges, private companies, charities, and the government.

Funding

The seven UK research councils also provide funding for students. You should normally apply through your course provider. You can also apply to studentships, which are postgraduate positions that come with funding.

Employers are also potential funding sources. You may be able to work while studying or commit to working for the employer for a fixed period after graduating.

Many charities offer small grants. Your university careers service may have a directory of these charitable organisations.

For the PGCE course, you need to pay tuition fees. However, universities sometimes offer discounts to alumni (enquire about this if you are interested). In addition to the funding sources discussed above, there are tax-free teaching bursaries and scholarships. For these, the amount you receive depends on the subject in which you are being trained. You can find out how much you might be entitled to here.

There is dedicated funding available for disabled students, called the Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs). You can find out more, and see whether you’re eligible, here.

What is life like as a postgraduate student?

Read on to hear from Catherine, who recently completed a DPhil in organic chemistry at the University of Oxford. She writes about her experiences as a postgraduate student.

How did you become a postgraduate student?

As an undergraduate, I studied a 4-year degree (MChem) in Chemistry at the University of Durham, UK. In the summer vacation between the second and third year of my course, I carried out a research internship in organic chemistry in the department of chemistry at Durham. This experience is what made me realise that I wanted to do a PhD in organic chemistry!

Also in my fourth and final year at Durham, I carried out a research project in organic chemistry as part of my course. I decided to apply for further study in the UK, and began researching my options. For example, I considered several different courses (both “straight” PhDs and new route PhDs) and supervisors. Having attended some open days and discussed my options with my tutor, friends and family, I applied to 4 institutions: Durham, Cambridge, Oxford and Strathclyde/GSK.

After some interviews, I was offered PhD/DPhil positions at Durham and Oxford in May 2015. I chose the position at Oxford because I preferred the supervisor and the project! Later I was offered a place at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, as there wasn’t any space left at the college to which I had originally applied (University College). 

What was your Postgraduate experience like?

In October 2015, I moved to Oxford and started my DPhil. In the department of organic chemistry, I had an induction day with other new DPhil students. This was a great chance to familiarise myself with a new department and new colleagues. In my college, there were also plenty of social events to meet other postgraduate students from all kinds of departments. 

In the first few weeks of my DPhil, my supervisor and I discussed my project and its aims. We planned several tasks to help me start my laboratory work. Initially, I had some problems trying to repeat the results of a previous PhD student. However, with perseverance, I managed to repeat them successfully, and so my research was off to a good start. At the end of their first year, DPhil students have to complete an assessment for a Transfer of Status. This is a key milestone in which you are promoted from Probationary Research Student (PRS) to official DPhil status. 

Progressing into my second year, I continued to make progress with my research. I also started to work as a junior demonstrator in the organic chemistry teaching laboratory. This meant that I supervised the laboratory work of second- and third-year chemistry undergraduates. This work was for one day per week for six weeks, and was well paid (approximately £80 per day). During the following year, my research pace increased and I started to make more rapid progress. In the same year, I jointly supervised a fourth-year MChem undergraduate student, who was doing a research project with my supervisor. Other highlights of postgraduate life included presenting a poster about my research at a UK conference, and giving a talk about my research at a leading chemistry conference in the US. In the final year, I had to focus on my thesis, which I finally submitted in July 2019. I survived my viva examination, and was awarded my DPhil in November 2019. Then I could officially start using my “Dr” title!

Next steps

• If you’re looking to progress to postgraduate study in the next couple of years, start visiting universities and open days! It’s a great way to meet the department where you might end up working.
• Read our Ultimate Guide to UCAS and Personal Statements to help as you prepare an application to study in the UK.
• Not sure which degree course is right for you? Oxford Scholastica Academy summer schools are the perfect place to try a subject for two weeks. You’ll have tuition, seminars, masterclasses and hands-on learning experiences a subject that you might want to take at university.