Should I do a Masters in the UK?
A Masters, also known as a postgraduate degree, is a second university qualification, usually studied after completing a Bachelors degree. Depending on your field of study, studying a Masters degree is often a good way to improve your employability, as well as making you eligible for certain progression routes and professional promotions in the future of your career.
Through a Masters, you will learn about your chosen subject in great detail, and acquire the knowledge, academic skills and professionalism to excel in a relevant job and beyond. Read more here about why studying a Masters might be right for you.
Why study a Masters degree?
There are many reasons why you should study a Masters degree. From improving your earning potential to helping you get your dream job, studying a postgraduate course abroad could be the best next step in your education journey.
Boost your employability
A Masters degree is a great way to take your CV to the next level, as well as your career. In 2020, 66% of UK students who studied a Masters were in “high-skilled employment”, which saw an increase from the previous year (UK Government’s graduate labour market statistics). By learning critical academic theory in the context of a subject you feel passionately about, you will gain a new perspective on your field of work, which will ultimately allow you to aim higher and achieve more in your professional life.
Improve your earning potential
Studying a Masters can also open up career progression opportunities, meaning you will have access to a higher pay bracket and more senior positions within your profession. This means that students with postgraduate qualifications are statistically likely to earn more than those with only one degree. The UK Government’s graduate labour market statistics from 2020 revealed that the average salary for students with a Masters degree is around £35,000 a year, which is nearly £10,000 more than the average for undergraduate-only employees.
Invest in your future
As previously mentioned, studying a postgraduate degree in the right area will teach you valuable skills that can boost your career. If you are wondering whether studying a Masters is worth it or not, it could be a good idea to consider your desired career path. Many job roles across different professional industries require specialised knowledge, especially for more senior positions. Career fields that postgraduate qualifications have the most hiring impact in are Business, Economics and Medicine and Dentistry (FindAMasters, 2021).
How can I study a Masters?
Choosing to study a Masters degree is an exciting decision, but you may be wondering what you will need to get there. Read our answers to students’ frequently asked questions below to get an idea of what you’ll need to pursue your postgraduate dream.
How long does it take to complete a Masters degree?
In full time study, a Masters degree will usually take between one and two academic years to complete. These degrees usually involve less contact hours (these include classroom lessons and time with a lecturer), meaning they require more dedicated independent study time than a Bachelors degree.
What qualifications will I need to study a Masters?
If you are wondering what qualifications you’ll need to study a Masters, this is simple. Most postgraduate degrees ask for good secondary education qualifications and at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) Bachelors level degree. If you are thinking about studying in the UK, but English is not your first language, you will also need to take a recognised English language qualification test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Can you do a PhD without a Masters?
It is worth considering that if you are interested in studying a PhD in the future, you will likely need a relevant Masters qualification in your chosen area of study. A Masters degree will allow you to gain a certain level of in-depth subject knowledge, and this is vital to have as a base level for continuing on in further study and obtaining a doctorate.
Studying a Masters abroad in the UK
If you are ready to start your postgraduate study, and want to explore studying abroad options, the Kingston University International Study Centre may be the right place for you. Here, we specialise in preparing international students for a university education at Kingston University - London, one of the most enterprising and ambitious institutions in the country.
With our Pre-Masters Programme, you can improve your English language level and learn more about your chosen subject ahead of starting your postgraduate degree. Topics you will cover will relate closely to the progression degree of your choice, and be taught by supportive industry professionals through a curriculum that’s been designed to familiarise you with the British university system.
This programme is currently offered in an exciting Business and Management pathway, which will allow you access to a range of Business-centric degrees upon your successful completion of the course. To find out if this programme is right for you, read more about our entry requirements and course fees, as well as the variety of study options we currently offer to offshore students.
Frequently asked questions
How much do masters degrees cost?
The average cost of a masters degree is around £8700, but this can vary depending on the university you are interested in studying with.
How can I study a masters in the UK?
Choosing to study abroad is a big decision, and you may have questions or concerns about how to even get started. At the Kingston University International Study Centre, our Pre-Masters programme is designed with international students in mind, to help get you ready for postgraduate study.
How do I apply for masters degree?
To be able to apply for a masters degree, you must have a good grade in your undergraduate degree, as well as a strong understanding of the english language. You should aim to start applying 6 months before your course begins.