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Postgrad Excellence

Postgraduate Study — Pathways & Entry Requirements

A postgraduate course is an advanced level of study pursued after completing a bachelor’s degree. In most cases students must hold an undergraduate qualification before enrolling in postgraduate study, although some routes accept professional experience or alternative qualifications.

Main Postgraduate Pathways

  • Taught Courses — Structured programs with lectures, seminars and coursework, often finishing with a dissertation or final project (e.g., MA, MSc, MBA).
  • Research Degrees — Focused on independent research leading to a thesis (MPhil, PhD).
  • Conversion Courses — Allow students to switch fields by providing foundational knowledge for a different subject at postgraduate level.
  • Professional Qualifications — Vocational or professional training linked to specific careers or accreditation.

Postgraduate Taught Courses

Taught postgraduate programs combine classroom learning with independent research. Common taught qualifications include Master’s degrees (typically 1–2 years) and shorter postgraduate diplomas or certificates (9–12 months or ~6 months respectively). Some master’s courses, such as MRes, include a larger research component.

Entry Requirements for Taught Postgraduate Courses

  • 1. Academic Qualification — A bachelor’s degree (certificate and transcript) is typically required.
  • 2. English Language Proficiency — Usually IELTS 6.5–7.0 (no component below 5.5); exemptions are possible if your prior degree was taught in English.
  • 3. Personal Statement — Clear academic purpose and career objectives.

Doctorate Programs (PhD)

Doctoral programs are research-led degrees typically completed after a master’s (though exceptional candidates may enter after a bachelor’s). UK PhD durations are usually 3–5 years full-time. The doctoral thesis (40,000–120,000 words) must show an original contribution to knowledge and be of publishable standard.

How we help

  • Program strategy and target identification
  • Research proposal & SOP development
  • Supervisor outreach and application packaging
  • Visa & documentation guidance
Plan Your Postgrad
Programme Overview & Entry Requirements
PhD
Academic Entry Qualification Overview

Academic Requirements: A Master’s degree is generally required. A well‑defined research proposal outlining your intended area of study is essential. In some cases, significant professional or research experience may be considered.

English Language Requirement: IELTS 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.0. Each university sets its own standard which may vary.

Estimated Cost: £15,000 - £35,000 per year depending on subject area and research topic. Scholarships are often available through universities or external funders.
MPhil
Academic Entry Qualification Overview

Academic Requirements: A Bachelor's degree with honours or a Master's degree (MA, MSc, or equivalent). Evidence of satisfactory postgraduate‑level work, including research training equivalent to at least one year of full‑time study.

English Language Requirement: Similar to PhD requirements; typically IELTS 7.0 with no component below 6.0.

Estimated Cost: Varies depending on subject area and university, generally within a similar range to PhD programs.
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