If you’re considering a master’s degree, and are unsure of where you should study, or which master’s course is best for you, keep reading. According to Erudera College News, the UK is the second most popular study destination for international students, with educational institutions which are internationally renowned. There are many factors to consider when choosing a master’s course. Some important ones include your academic and personal interests, study background, and future career prospects. Read on to learn more about each of these factors.
Educational Background
Generally speaking, your undergraduate subject doesn’t have to be in the same field as your master’s. As your career and academic interests may shift, graduate studies can be an opportunity to change careers.
However, taking what you’ve learned in your undergraduate program and applying it to your master’s studies can save you time and money. For example, if you’ve received your undergraduate degree in graphic design, you’ll be set to build on that knowledge with a Master of Arts in Graphic Design and Branding at the University of Hertfordshire.
If there’s minimal academic overlap between your degrees (do you have a bachelor’s in organic chemistry, and want to take a master’s in data analytics?), you may need to do prerequisite classes or show you’ve worked in the field. Students who switch their field of study may need to provide the university with a letter explaining why.
Similarly, if you have a gap of a year or more between your degrees, be prepared to explain why. This explanation may include a resume, health records, or a study gap letter explaining you were caring for family, or traveling. Not sure if you need to include a study gap statement? Check in with the admissions team at the university you’re applying to.
Write a clear and compelling study gap statement thanks to the tips on our blog!
Interest (Field of Work)
Understanding your career goals and interests is vital when selecting a master’s course. Students often change their minds over time when choosing a career, which may mean changing their area of study.
Suppose you’ve completed an undergraduate program in computer science, but realize you’re especially interested in business analytics. Don’t let your educational background hold you back from pursuing a Master of Science which helps you build your knowledge in that area. If you’re considering the UK as a study destination, perhaps the Management with Business Analytics master’s degree at Bournemouth University could be right for you! Being interested in the field of work you enter is key: your master’s course should reflect your passions.
Future Career Prospects
Deciding if a master’s degree is right for you? Consider if the course will help you reach your career goals. To figure this out, research fields of interest and reach out to people at related companies. Hearing from people doing your dream job can help you choose the right master’s degree.
For example, you might have an undergraduate pharmaceutical degree but are interested in a product role in the pharmaceutical industry. Speaking to an industry professional might make you realize a Master of Science in Public Health like the one offered at the University of the West of England, Bristol is a better fit, rather than a pharmacy master’s degree.
Once graduated, eligible international students can apply to the UK’s Graduate Immigration Route for a work visa which allows them to stay and work in the UK. Students must submit an application and pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge to be considered for the route.
Work Opportunities
Many academic institutions in the UK offer opportunities for students to gain industry experience. London South Bank University’s Master of Science in International Business Management allows students to explore a career path and build their network through classwork and a one-year internship.
When selecting a master’s course in the UK, ensure you consider the difference between an internship and a work placement. In general:
- An internship ranges from a week to 12 months, and by law, you must be paid at least the national minimum wage. After finishing, there’s the potential for the organization to bring you on full-time.
- Short-term work placements are typically completed during term time and are usually between one and three months.
- Meanwhile, other work placements are one day per week over a longer duration. A year-in-industry work placement is a year in length and occurs during a student’s second and final year.
In most cases, short-term work placements are unpaid. However, students who complete a year-in-industry placement are usually paid.
Course Duration
Many master’s courses in the UK are one year long, compared to two years in Canada, the US, and Australia. This makes the UK a desirable destination for international students who’d like to start their careers quickly after graduation. Shorter master’s courses are also typically more affordable, as they require fewer years of tuition and overseas living expenses.
When choosing a master’s course, it’s important to consider the course’s duration and how it fits into your learning style, budget, and career plans. Because of their faster pace, one-year master’s courses suit students who can dedicate lots of energy to their studies. In comparison, two-year courses often offer more practical experience, which can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs.
Popular master’s courses in the UK can fill up quickly. So, we recommend applying as soon as possible to secure your spot.
Ready to start your study abroad journey in the United Kingdom? Explore more course options on the ApplyBoard platform!
