Masters Degree

A Master’s Degree is an academic qualification granted at the postgraduate level to individuals who have successfully undergone study demonstrating a high level of expertise in a specific field of study or area of professional practice.  Students who graduate with a Master’s Degree should possess advanced knowledge of a specialised body of theoretical and applied topics, a high level of skills and techniques associated with their chosen subject area, and a range of transferable and professional skills gained through independent and highly focused learning and research.  

The two most common titles are Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc).

Master’s Degrees typically take one to three years to complete, through either part-time or full-time study.

There are two main types of Master’s Degrees: taught master’s degrees and research master’s degrees.  Taught master’s degrees are very structured, with students following a program of lectures, seminars and supervisions, as well as choosing their own research project to explore.  Research master’s degrees require much more independent work, allowing students to pursue a longer research project and involves less teaching time.

As many master’s degrees are designed for working professionals, there are many options available in a variety of flexible study modes. These include:

• distance learning, where students can learn entirely online, attend a short residential course or visit their chosen institution intermittently;
• part-time learning, so you can structure your course schedule around your job;
• evening and weekend classes.

 

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

An MBA is another type of Masters Degree but entry onto the programme requires business work experience in addition to a Bachelors Degree. It is designed for professionals who want to progress to executive and senior management positions.

Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas

Post Graduate certificates and diplomas allow learners to build on the skills and knowledge gained on a first degree and are available in a wide variety of subjects.  They are required for entry to some professions, for example, Teaching (PGCE) and Law (GDL) and take up to a year to complete full time.