POSTGRADUATE AND FURTHER STUDY
Explore – reasons to consider further study, the benefits, and how to apply
Your future starts here at Winchester There are many reasons why students may want to embark on a master’s or a higher professional study course and there are many places in the UK or abroad to do this.
Step 1. Why embark on a postgraduate or further study course after your undergraduate degree? There are a range of motivations for you to continue in higher education and study to a higher level. It may be to: 1
Become a specialist and to enhance your expertise and knowledge in a study area.
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Change direction and gain a qualification in a new area (e.g. Management, Law or Teaching).
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Pursue an academic career – (e.g. To become a Lecturer and/or Researcher).
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Gain a new life experience in a new place like Scotland, New Zealand or the USA.
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Broaden your knowledge and experience, wider than your degree. e.g. MA/ MSc in areas such as International Business Management, Marketing or Project Management as examples of subject areas.
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Train to work in a specific career that demands a postgraduate or professional qualification that may lead to accreditation e.g. CIPD, CIM or QTS or the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) as examples. See the Jobs Profiles on Prospects here: www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles for information on jobs and what qualifications are available, and if there are specific professional qualifications and training required that leads to registered status to practice in the area of work that you are seeking to go into.
Step 2. Where to study There are many UK universities and colleges who teach an array of postgraduate and professional level courses, however there are some that specialise in certain areas.
Step 3. Choosing a course Postgraduate courses are delivered in a variety of ways. Teaching methods can vary and can be full-time, part-time or through blended or distance learning. Researching university websites, visiting their campus and these search engines can help you explore courses available. ■
Findamasters.com
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Postgrad.com also boasts advice on choosing a course
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Prospects
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Target Jobs
Step 4. Writing a great personal statement When you have chosen a course, look at the university’s website and their guidance on applying. See ‘How to apply’ on the university or course provider’s website – which will also outline entry requirements for the course you would like to apply to, and when to apply (the deadline for applications to be considered). A good personal statement for postgraduate study is important and looking on the university course page of their website can provide further information about what they require and what is included in the application process. Present your statement effectively using a clear, accurate and professional communication style, giving reasons for applying and evidence to support this. Within your personal statement, please aim to explain: 1
Your reasons for applying, and why they should want you as a postgraduate student.
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What relevant study you have undertaken. Consider also other activities to prove your ability and commitment and enthusiasm to the course, and how your undergraduate studies/employment has prepared you.
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Highlight that you have researched the course and the university, explain why you want to study at that institution.
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Reflect upon your chosen career path. Describe any longer-term plans and how this course links to your future goals.
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Describe further reading you have undertaken: academic papers, news reports, blogs and discussions. This will show a real interest in the subject.
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Evidence that you are a critical thinker. Postgraduate courses require more indepth and intensive research. Refer to activities, assessments and projects that have sharpened your arguments and thought processes.
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See any guidance notes from the university you are applying to for information on what they look for in the application/personal statement, and if you need to submit additional evidence with your application, for example, a sample of writing or portfolio of work.
Step 5. Find out more ■
Findamasters.com
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Further study at the University of Winchester
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GOV.UK – Masters Loan
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GOV.UK – Doctoral Loan
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Postgrad.com
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Prospects
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Target Jobs – Postgraduate study
Careers and Opportunities Hub Support We’re a friendly team, dedicated to help you to prepare for your future, to explore your options, to find work or postgraduate and further study, develop connections and skills, or to start your own business.
CareerConnect is our Careers and Opportunities Platform where you can: 1
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Book a careers appointment with your Faculty Employability Adviser to: ■
Explore different graduate career and study options
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Help you communicate the value of your achievements and skills
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Build strong online applications, profiles and statements
Search for work and set your choices to be alerted of roles that suit you: ■
Part-time and seasonal opportunities
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Graduate programmes and full-time work
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Placements and volunteering opportunities
View and book to attend our workshops and employer events during the year ■
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Keep an eye on the range of events advertised on CareerConnect – see the Events tab: winchester.jobteaser.com/en/events
Find information and advice on a range of different topics on CareerConnect
Visit us at the Careers and Opportunities Hub Open weekdays for advice
Find jobs, volunteering, placements, and part-time work Check and update your CV Search for graduate roles and schemes and application advice Help yourself to our leaflets and booklets careers@winchester.ac.uk @_UoWcareers
@universityofwinchestercareers @uowcareers