Postgraduate issues
There are various factors that you must consider, and everyone has
their own priorities, but you should think about the following points
when choosing your postgraduate course:
Syllabus content
- Is there too much overlap with what you have already studied?
- Does it pre-suppose knowledge which you do not yet have?
- Does it contain a work placement? If so, do you have to
find it yourself?
Entry requirements
- What is the level of competition for entry?
- What level of degree is required?
- Must your first degree be in a relevant subject?
- Is previous related work experience required?
Application procedure
- Is there a fixed closing date?
Some courses, e.g. teaching and clinical psychology, have closing dates
as early as the beginning of December but early application (October/November)
is advisable for courses with competitive entry. Courses
without a fixed closing date accept applications from early autumn,
and in many cases the timing of applications is linked to timing of
funding applications.
- Is there a clearing house or are applications made directly to
the University?
Funding
The course tutor should be able to tell you and we also hold information
on funding in the Careers Service.
Employment prospects
- What has been the track record of previous students after the
course?
- What links does the course/institution have with employers?
Again, the course tutor or the Careers Service in the institution
being considered should be able to tell you.
Additional factors
- Does the course tutor/potential research supervisor take an interest
in students?
- Are the library/equipment/laboratory facilities adequate for your
subject?
- Do you like the environment of the campus/town/city?
- What kind/price of accommodation will be available?
Next section - Funding for Postgraduate
Study
