a postgraduate qualification could be a great next step - whether for interest, research or professional development. with our flexible study options, we can help you achieve your goals in a way that suits you.
postgraduate study is normally the next level of study following an undergraduate degree. there are some exceptions, for example, professional development courses will accept relevant industry experience.
what's the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate?
you'll gain more specialist knowledge of your subject at postgraduate level. it’s more flexible but more advanced and you’ll work at a faster pace.
step up to masters
our step up to masters course allows you to test and develop the academic skills required at masters level and help build your confidence. this may be a good introduction if it’s been some time since your first degree or you’re applying with professional experience and you haven’t studied at degree level. we’ll ensure that you are ready to achieve your career aspirations by progressing onto a master’s course.
you'll get to grips with the essential skills needed for postgraduate study. this includes critical analysis and evaluation, challenging and debating current evidence.
taught and research
postgraduate degrees can be either taught or research-based.
if you've studied a first degree, a taught postgraduate degree will be familiar. you'll have lectures, seminars and practical assignments. your work is assessed through exams, essays, dissertations and group projects. these degrees will help you change career, boost job prospects or gain a wider skillset.
on a professional doctorate, more than half of your degree will be an independent research project, directly related to current issues in your professional life.
on an mphil or phd, the entire degree is your independent, supervised research. the research is at the highest level, genuinely contributing to knowledge in your area. these degrees help in getting your work published and advancing your research career. we also offer the phd by published work.
how to study?
how you study might be just as important as your chosen subject. that's why postgraduate study doesn't have to mean full-time study on campus. it can be what you need it to be.
as a full-time student, you’ll be part of our lively campus experience. as well as attending lectures, you can make full use of a range of facilities and study spaces.
you’ll have a set number of contact hours per week as well as your additional independent study time.
part-time study is a great option if you want to fit study around other commitments. you’ll have access to our experts and on campus facilities at the times that you attend.
your time commitment and duration of course will depend on the course intensity – that is the proportion of the full-time equivalent course that you choose to study each year.
blended learning is a flexible option where you’ll study through a mix of formal, lecture based learning and virtual learning supported by independent study.
for information on course timetables for part-time or blended learning courses, please contact enquiries.
distance learning allows you to study when and wherever you want to fit around your personal and work life. you’ll access lectures, recordings and course materials online and get support from our course leaders.
you’ll typically need to complete 10 – 15 hours of independent work each week. however, the actual study time will vary from student to student.
