What is a Masters degree?

What is a Masters degree in the UK?

A Masters degree is a postgraduate, Level 7 qualification - this means they're more academically advanced than Bachelors degrees. The only qualification above a Masters is a PhD. Study is intense and typically involves completing a series of modules and writing a dissertation. In the UK, Masters degrees are worth 180 credits.

While having a Masters qualification can greatly improve your career prospects, the high costs and academic demands mean it isn't for everyone, so research your options thoroughly.

Masters degrees shouldn't be confused with the Scottish Master of Arts (MA), which is an undergraduate degree awarded by certain universities.

How long is a UK Masters degree?

Full-time Masters courses usually involve one or two years of study, while part-time programmes last between two and four years.

What's the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate study?

The term 'undergraduate' refers to first-degree students studying for a Bachelors degree, while 'postgraduate' is used to describe graduate students studying a second-cycle qualification, typically a Masters or postgraduate certificate (PGCert) or diploma (PGDip). The term 'postgraduate' is also used to describe those studying PhDs.

Compared with undergraduate degrees, Masters degrees are usually:

• focused on one particular area of a wider subject, giving students a greater amount of specialist knowledge
• more flexible in terms of modules and study options
• smaller in terms of class size
• cheaper (but more expensive than PGCerts, PGDips and PhDs).

PGDips and PGCerts are qualifications at the same level as Masters degrees, but they're shorter, worth less credits and you don't have to write a dissertation.

Is a Masters harder than a Bachelors degree?

Yes, studying at postgraduate level is generally considered to be more demanding, both academically and mentally, than at undergraduate level.

Masters study is a definite step up from your Bachelors experience, thanks to a condensed timetable (making study feel more fast paced), more advanced/specialised course content, less contact time and an increased focus on independent study.

All these factors can make studying at this level feel more intense.

However, Masters study often feels more satisfying and rewarding as you’re learning about your chosen discipline in more depth.

What are the different types of Masters degrees?

Master of Arts (MA)

MA's are usually awarded to those studying courses in:

• art and humanities
• business, consulting and management
• social sciences.

MA programmes often involve research, discussion, essay writing and practical exercises.

Master of Science (MSc)

An MSc typically covers science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes. However, some social sciences and business, consulting and management courses also fall into the MSc category. Programmes are typically theory-heavy with an emphasis on reading and research.

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The MBA is an advanced, prestigious postgraduate qualification ideal for those who want to increase their professional reputation, boost their salary and expand their networks. Professionals who have gained at least three years of business and management experience usually take an MBA. The average age of students is typically between 27 and 30.

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

The MPA is similar to an MBA in that it is a graduate-level professional degree. It's a prestigious qualification aimed at community, government and non-profit leaders in the public sector.

Master of Research (MRes)

The MRes is a one-year, full-time research degree, which focuses more on independent study. Courses exist to train researchers for a profession or PhD study.

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

An MPhil is a postgraduate research degree designed for those looking to undertake focused, in-depth research without committing to a full Doctorate.

For help choosing a suitable course, see which Masters degree is right for me?

Taught vs research Masters, which should I do?

Masters can be either taught or research-based, which one you choose depends on your preferred method of study, academic interests and career goals.

Graduates of both type of Masters are eligible for PhD study.

While funding is the same for both types of Masters, there is sometimes a difference in fees. Tuition fees for research Masters can often be cheaper than taught courses, especially where humanities are concerned.

To find your perfect course, search for a Masters degree.

What are the entry requirements?

Most Masters courses require you to hold a first or 2:1 undergraduate degree. Some programmes specify the need for a Bachelors degree in a related subject or relevant work experience.

A number of courses also accept those with a 2:2. Learn more about studying for a Masters with a 2:2 or a third in should I do a Masters?

Can I study for a Masters without a Bachelors degree?

For the majority of courses you'll need an undergraduate degree to progress onto a Masters. However, some universities and programmes may accept you onto a Masters course without a Bachelors degree, but usually only if you have extensive relevant experience.

It is possible to combine both undergraduate and postgraduate study, essentially studying for both a Bachelors and a Masters at the same time by taking a four-year integrated Masters course. For example, one of the most common examples of an integrated Masters in the UK is the MEng, Master of Engineering.

What does a Masters involve?

You can opt to study full or part time, in block mode or via distance learning.

Full-time study is the most common and these students usually progress directly from a Bachelors degree, while part-timers are typically older. Part-time students often fit study around an existing career or family commitments, allowing them to gain work experience while studying - something very important to employers.

Courses are typically split into separate core and optional modules, and depending on the subject studied you may get the opportunity to complete a work placement or a period studying abroad as part of the programme. Courses normally begin in September or October, though some start in January or February.

You may have fewer than ten hours of weekly contact time, but you'll be expected to undertake at least 30 to 35 hours of independent study. Teaching methods include:

• lectures
• seminars
• workshops.

Assessment methods include:

• degree shows
• essays
• group projects
• practical assignments
• presentations
• portfolios
• thesis/dissertation.

How are Masters graded?

Similar to the third, second and first class honours awarded for Bachelors courses, on completion of your Masters, you'll be given a pass, merit or distinction mark.

For the majority of taught Masters:

• pass - 50% or above
• merit - 60% or above
• distinction - 70% or above.

Variations do occur, though. For example, some institutions may grant a pass at 40%, or a distinction at 80%.

Gain a better understanding of university grades in the UK.

How much does a Masters cost?

Masters fees aren't fixed, and vary enormously across universities. Course costs often depend on two factors - the university's reputation and the subject.

According to UCAS, postgraduate tuition fees can range from £4,900 to over £30,000, but they put the average at around £11,000 per year.

As a guide, arts and humanities courses are cheaper than STEM programmes, while courses in medicine usually cost more. An MBA is one of the most expensive qualifications available. For example, the MBA at London Business School costs£123,950 .

International students pay considerably more than UK students for Masters programmes.

For example:

• to study MSc Forensic Psychology and Mental Health at The University of Manchester in 2026/27, full-time UK students pay £13,100. The same course costs international students £33,600.
• similarly in 2026/27, UK students will pay £13,000 for the MA Broadcast Journalism programme at City St George’s, University of London while international students are charged £26,680.

Can I get help funding my Masters?

Fees are paid up front. If you cannot self-fund your Masters degree, don't worry - a number of postgraduate funding options are available:

• Postgraduate loans
• Masters degree scholarships
• Research Council grants
• Employer sponsorship
• Crowdfunding
• Chevening scholarships (for international students).

You'll also need to factor in living costs such as:

• food
• household goods
• leisure activities
• rent
• travel expenses.

Big cities such as Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester will be more expensive, and the cost of living in London is considerably more. It's vital that you do your research and figure out your finances before applying for a course.

A lot of Masters students attempt to finance their tuition fees and living costs through part-time work, though non-UK students on a short-term study visa aren't able to do this. It's possible - albeit challenging - to work 10 to 15 hours per week and still achieve a healthy work-study balance. Working for the university, or from home, is ideal.

Part-time study while working full time may also be a good option. To find out more, see working while studying.

Where can I get more advice on Masters study?

• Your careers and employability service - advisers can help you to explore your options, decide which course is best for you and assist your application.
• Current students - they'll tell you how much work is involved and recommend books and other sources.
• Postgraduate study fairs - you can meet representatives from numerous universities at these events.
• University tutors - academics from your course can explain the course content, while current tutors can reveal how your career goals match up.

Find out more

• Discover how to apply for a Masters degree.