Postgraduate Courses in the UK
Advance your career with a postgraduate degree in the UK. Explore Master’s courses, entry requirements, funding options and universities with free guidance from Athlas Education.
Postgraduate Courses UK: What Is a Postgraduate Degree?
Postgraduate courses in the UK offer advanced study after completing an undergraduate degree. They include qualifications such as Master’s degrees, MBAs, MScs, MAs, LLMs and other specialised programmes.
Master’s Degree
Usually 1 year full-time in the UK.
Advanced Study
Develop specialist knowledge in your chosen field.
Career Development
Build skills that can support professional progression or a career change.
Popular Postgraduate Courses in the UK
Explore some of the most popular postgraduate study areas. We can help you find suitable courses based on your qualifications, interests and career goals.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
MSc International Management
MSc Project Management
MSc Marketing
MSc Finance & Accounting
MSc Computer Science & Cyber Security
MSc Public Health
MSc Psychology
LLM International Business Law
MA Education
And many more postgraduate courses across a wide range of subject areas.
How Long Is a Master’s Degree in the UK?
Many full-time taught Master’s degrees in the UK can be completed in approximately one year, although course length varies depending on the programme, university and study mode.
FULL-TIME
Usually 1 year
PART-TIME
Often 2 years or more
Postgraduate Entry Requirements in the UK
Entry requirements vary between universities and courses. Your academic qualifications, English language level and professional experience may all be considered.
Bachelor’s Degree
Most Master’s programmes require an undergraduate qualification or equivalent.
English Language
Universities may require proof of English depending on your circumstances.
Work Experience
Some programmes, particularly certain MBAs and professional courses, may consider relevant experience.
Individual Assessment
Requirements vary, so your eligibility should be assessed for the specific course and university.
Can I Get Student Finance for a Master’s Degree?
Eligible students studying a Master’s course in England may be able to receive a Postgraduate Master’s Loan to help with tuition fees and living costs. Eligibility depends on your course and personal circumstances.
Funding rules can change and eligibility varies. We can help you understand which options may apply to your circumstances.
How We Help You Apply
1 — Tell us about you
Tell us your qualifications, interests and career goals.
2 — Explore your options
We identify suitable postgraduate courses and universities.
3 — Apply with support
Get guidance throughout the university application process.
Postgraduate Courses for International Students in the UK
International students can choose from a wide range of postgraduate programmes at UK universities. Entry requirements, English language requirements, tuition fees and visa conditions vary depending on the university and course.
Frequently Asked Questions About Postgraduate Study in the UK
1. What is a postgraduate degree?
A postgraduate degree is an advanced qualification usually studied after completing an undergraduate degree. Examples include Master’s degrees, MBAs, MScs, MAs and LLMs.
2. How long does a Master’s degree take in the UK?
Many full-time taught Master’s degrees in the UK take around one year to complete. Part-time programmes usually take longer, and duration varies depending on the university and course.
3. What are the entry requirements for postgraduate study in the UK?
Entry requirements vary by university and course. Universities may consider your previous qualifications, academic background, English language level and, for some programmes, relevant professional experience.
4. Do I need a Bachelor’s degree to study a Master’s in the UK?
A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is normally required, but requirements vary. Some universities and programmes may also consider relevant professional experience or alternative qualifications.
5. Can I get Student Finance for a Master’s degree?
Eligible students studying an approved Master’s course may be able to apply for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan. Eligibility depends on factors including the course and the student's personal circumstances.
6. Can international students study postgraduate courses in the UK?
Yes. UK universities offer a wide range of postgraduate courses to international students. Academic, English language and visa requirements depend on the course, university and individual circumstances.
7. Do I need an English language test?
Not necessarily. English language requirements vary between universities and applicants. Depending on your circumstances and previous studies, a university may accept different forms of evidence of English proficiency.
8. Can I study a Master’s degree part-time?
Yes, many postgraduate programmes offer part-time study options. Availability and course duration depend on the university and programme.
9. What is the difference between an MSc, MA, MBA and LLM?
An MSc is generally associated with science, technology, business and analytical subjects; an MA commonly covers arts, humanities and some social sciences; an MBA focuses on business and management; and an LLM is a postgraduate law degree.
10. Can Athlas Education help me choose a postgraduate course?
Yes. Athlas Education can help you explore suitable postgraduate study options based on your qualifications, interests and career goals, and provide guidance throughout the university application process.
Not Sure Which Postgraduate Course Is Right for You?
Tell us about your qualifications, interests and career goals, and we’ll help you explore suitable postgraduate study options.