Whether you’re about to finish your undergraduate degree or are looking for a career change, a postgraduate degree could be something you’re considering. With many courses to choose from, postgraduate degrees can help get you where you want to go in your career. But, how do you know it’s the right move for you?
Whether you’re about to finish your undergraduate degree or are looking for a career change, a postgraduate degree could be something you’re considering. With many courses to choose from, postgraduate degrees can help get you where you want to go in your career. But, how do you know it’s the right move for you?
Types of postgraduate study
Firstly, it’s important to distinguish which type of postgraduate (PG) study you would want to part-take in. The first is ‘postgraduate taught’ courses. Taught postgraduate degrees are a lot like undergraduate programmes. You’ll complete a series of modules following a set timetable of seminars, lectures and other activities. The majority of Masters-level programmes are taught courses. You’ll be much more responsible for studying independently in your free time, but the academics in charge of your course will lead you through it.
The second type of study is postgraduate research. These degrees are more independent meaning you’ll have hardly any timetabled units, instead, you’ll be focusing on one or more extended projects. You’ll still receive support and guidance from an expert supervisor, but the focus of your programme will be on your own research work.
Reasons to study
A PG degree will help you when it comes to increasing your knowledge in your chosen subject area. You will have access to industry experts from your field to help you learn and expand your knowledge ahead of pursuing your own industry career. The increased subject knowledge and experience gained from subject experts during your degree could help you further in your career making you eligible for job promotions and therefore increasing your earning potential.
Before committing to a PG degree, take some time out to research the subject area you’re interested in and see if further study within that field interests you. If the subject area does interest you then start looking at courses that are offered by universities and read what the courses will offer you. You’ll soon know whether or not that course is for you.
Funding
As well as the subject itself, it’s important to factor in finances when deciding if a PG degree is right for you. Although there are government loans available, they only cover you up to a certain amount (£12,167 in 2023/24). If your course fees exceed the loan amount or you also wish to live away from home while studying then you will need to find alternative sources of funding. You can find out more about how to finance your study here.
If postgraduate study sounds like it could be for you then check out the PG options we offer at Birmingham City University by browsing through our courses.