Doing your course Although you will be used to university life as an undergraduate, postgraduate study is very different. Doing postgraduate study in that uk means getting used to a different academic culture. Learning culture The learning culture at British universities may be somewhat different to what you have been used to in your own country, and many international students are often surprised by the informal relationships that they enjoy with their tutors. The tutorial system, upon which so much of postgraduate education is based, encourages free and open debate, and you will be able to enjoy the opportunity to develop ideas and will be expected to manage your own workload. Term times are different in Britain. Most UK universities operate according to term times with academic sessions starting in September/October, January and May. Some universities, however, have moved towards the American model, with two semesters a year from September and January. Virtually all taught course postgraduate programmes start in September or October. Academic support services Adapting to academic life in the UK is a straightforward process for most international students, but if you do face any problems during your course, there are support services in place to help you. If you are having difficulty with your studies, it is advisable to talk to your lecturers, or personal tutor straight away, as they should be able to guide you, and may even offer a solution to your problem. If you are having difficulty communicating with your lecturers, however, there are alternative ways to seek confidential advice. The Students’ Union Students’ unions are established as an integral part of life at college and university and an extension of the educational experience. They provide students with a range of services, including representation, sport, student activities, entertainment, commercial services, and social facilities, but they also provide confidential welfare and education services which students can visit to gain advice. All students when they register at a College or University will normally automatically become a member of their students’ union, unless they choose to opt out. These services are open to international students – in fact, most Student Unions are directly involved with international student inductions, so that you are aware of the range of support services available when you start your course. The National Postgraduate Committee The National Postgraduate Committee (NPC) is the representative body for postgraduates in the UK, and is made up of student representatives from educational institutions with postgraduate students. The NPC aims to promote the interests of postgraduates studying in the UK, while remaining politically non-aligned. International students are able to consult the NPC for advice and information, but there are also student representative bodies, local postgraduate representatives and the dean of students or equivalent who can be found at every university. All institutions normally have a member of staff who can meet one to one with the student to discuss any difficulties they are experiencing. It is important that you check with the university you are intending to study at what services are available to you, before you arrive. Further information National Union of Students www.nus.org.uk National Postgraduate Committee www.npc.org.uk
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