Postgraduate courses are an attractive option in a job market crowded with first degree holders, and there are currently more than 500,000 postgraduates in UK higher education institutions. But postgraduate study is not an easy option – it requires hard work and extra money.
Deciding why you want to continue your study is vital. If you’re pursuing an academic interest, the likelihood is you’ll know which course you want to do and why. Otherwise, the career path you’re planning to take will affect your choice of course, particularly if you’re considering a profession such as law or teaching which requires specific qualifications.
Find out for yourself
Postgraduate fairs and open days are an excellent way to find out more about what further study involves. Armed with information, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision as to whether postgraduate study will benefit you.
You’ll be able to talk to representatives from different universities and attend talks that will give you more information on the world of postgraduate study, including how to fund it.
“Open days offer a great chance to explore a university. Usually individual academic schools will host events throughout the day. These often consist of presentations or Q and A sessions and are designed to give visitors a chance to meet academics, administrative staff and, sometimes, current students to talk about the programmes. It also gives you time to find out what facilities are on offer to postgraduate students,” says Michelle Munson, Postgraduate Recruitment Officer at the University of Manchester.
Further information