Master’s degree in UK for international students

Britain’s higher education system is known internationally and has a long history of academic excellence. Therefore, it is not a secret that a master’s degree in the UK is a popular choice for students from all over the world.

What master’s degree should I do in the UK?

The higher education system in Britain includes many different types of qualification at master’s degree level, ranging from academic programs to practical and professional graduate courses. Most programs require one year of full-time study (90 ECTS), although a research-based master is usually for two years.

Academic master’s degrees

Academic master’s degree certificates in the UK include advanced study of a subject the student learned at the undergraduate level. For this reason, this allows him/her to specialize in a particular subject.

In the light of this subject, the certificates can bedivided into two broad types: programs that are taught, which are generallymore structured. Besides the research masters, which require more independentresearch.

In general, the main types of postgraduate programs are:

• Science Master Degree (M.Sc.).
• Master of Research (MRes).
• Philosophy Master Degree (MPhil).
• Master of Arts (MLitt).

Professional master’s degree in UK

Professional master’s qualifications are a great way to prepare yourself for a particular job or sector. Hence, it’s more professional and vocational by nature than the above-mentioned academic masters. These programs often involve a work topic.

In this regard, the common types of professional postgraduate programs include:

• Master of social work (MSW).
• Master of Engineering (M.Eng.).
• Psychology Master Degree.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA).

Additionally, MBA degree at UK universities is also popular. Being that, we noticed that many international students choose to study an MBA or a master’s degree in Management (MIM).

Apply for masters in UK

The process of applying for a Masters in Britain depends on the course and the institution. Most often, you will have to apply directly to the relevant academic department (although some universities use UCAS for post-graduate studies since it’s a centralized system).

Generally, a postgraduate application in the UK will include completing and providing the following documents:

Moreover, in some cases, you may have to attend an interview, either in person or online via an instant message app. You may also have to complete an acceptance test for graduates, although these tests are not common in the UK.

English language requirements

You will usually have to provide proof of your English proficiency when applying for a master’s study in the UK (if English is not your first language). After all, you may not need this guide if you have studied your degree in an English-speaking country.

Furthermore, you can usually find out the exact score you need to get by checking the course description (if you have any doubt, ask the admissions team at the university you have chosen).

Another key point, below are four main types accepted forthe English test:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• TOEFL test.
• Cambridge Assessment of English C1 and C2.
• Pearson English test (PTE Academic).

How many years is a master’s degree in the UK?

A full-time master in the UK lasts about 1 to 2 years of study, while a part-time degree program may last between 2 and 4 years. One of the reasons why students usually choose to earn their master in the UK is because masters in the country are fast-paced. There are many intensive programs that can be completed in just one year. And a short duration for the program, means a lower tuition fees and the opportunity for the students to step in the job market a little earlier. 

Learn also how to earn a PhD in the UK.

Master degree in UK: fees and cost

Master’s fees vary depending on the university you apply to. But the cost of a master’s degree program in the UK is fixed based on the study subject and the university’s reputation. To give you a price range, postgraduate tuition fees in the UK cost between £5,000 to over £30,000 per year. Programs in arts and humanities are the most affordable ones, while medicine studies are among the most expensive ones. Moreover, an MBA in the UK also cost more, with tuition fees that can go up to £97,500.

Learn how is the student life in the UK and find some tips to get an affordable education in the country.

Visas for master students in UK

As an international non-EU student, you will need a Level 4 visa for a master study in UK. Being that, in order to be accepted to acquire a Level 4 visa, you must have:

• A place in a full-time or part-time postgraduate course (level Ofqual 7 or higher) at a UK university which has a level 4 sponsor status.
• The required level of English proficiency for obtaining the master’s degree that you have chosen.
• The adequate financial support that you will need for affording the cost of studying and living in UK during your studies.