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Postgraduate study

You may be considering building on your learning and skills by continuing your studies. But what is postgraduate study?

We have provided some information to help you:

  • decide whether postgraduate study is for you
  • narrow down your options by identifying courses relevant to you
  • understand the application process
  • find out whether you are eligible for any funding.

Below are links to more information on the process of becoming a postgraduate student and further options:

What is Postgraduate Study?

Postgraduate study can be a master's course, a postgraduate diploma or certificate, or a doctoral degree, such as a PhD. Qualifications are either gained through taught courses or research.

Taught courses

Master's courses (MA, MSc, etc.) are usually one year full-time courses or two years part-time. They may be a continuation of your bachelor's degree, for instance allowing you to specialise in a certain area, or a preparation for a specific career e.g. Human Resource Management or IT.

It is also possible to study for a master's in a different subject from your bachelor's degree, but you will be expected to demonstrate an interest and commitment to this field in your application. Admissions tutors will understand that career plans and focus can change during the course of a degree or after working in the years after graduation, but make sure you give a compelling explanation for the change of direction.

Vocational courses can lead to qualifications such as diplomas, certificates or master's, and their content relates to particular types of work such as Journalism, Teaching, Law. They often last for one year on a full-time basis, but part-time options may also be available.

Research qualifications

A PhD is the highest level qualification gained through research. It takes at least three years to complete full-time and can be done over a longer period part-time. You will undertake original research and will work largely independently, under the guidance of a supervisor.

Research Masters last for one or two years. Many students begin a research Masters with the intention of continuing to a PhD straight afterwards.

Further information

Book an appointment online to speak to us regarding your options - you can choose a skype, phone or email appointment if you're not in Bradford.

See the information on postgraduate study and research at the University of Bradford.

Studying overseas

Here are some resources that could help you search for courses in countries across the world, find information about how to apply and visas requirements. 

  • Prospects although written for students from the UK, there is some general information on searching for courses, how to apply and funding along with some information sources, all of which also apply to international students.
  • TARGETpostgrad details information on what courses you could study, how to apply and fund postgraduate study abroad and study visa basics
  • Studee offers information and advice for students worldwide who are considering studying abroad for an international education. Choose your country of study and get up to date information and advice on courses, application processes and visas through a free student email enquiry service.
  • Find a Masters and Find a PhD allow you to search for courses across the world. 
  • Studying in the US and The Fulbright Commission webpage also feature useful information about opportunities in USA.