How to Choose the Right UK Master’s Course?
Studying a postgraduate (Master’s) degree at a UK university can offer huge career advantages, especially for international students. It can open doors to working in the UK, or accelerate your career elsewhere. Many international students chose to study their Master’s in the UK due to the shorter course duration - typically just 12 months. This allows you to complete your degree much faster than in other countries, helping you advance your career sooner. But with so many different Master’s degree options available, how do you choose the right course?
Cost is often a key factor, and the Scholarship Scanner database is a valuable resource for finding UK university scholarships, including partial and fully funded scholarships from over 70 universities. However, beyond scholarships and tuition fees, it’s important to consider how to choose the right Master’s program. Scholarship Scanner shares five essential tips to help you decide.
Check the Rankings
When selecting a Master’s degree in the UK, consider reputable UK-based rankings like:
For an international perspective, explore global rankings such as:
There are many other rankings publications, however the ones listed above are trustworthy sources. Additionally, you can review graduate earnings data through resources like the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset, published by the UK Government's Department for Education (DfE). While LEO focuses on undergraduate earnings, it still provides a useful indicator of graduate prospects. (Most universities will quote their LEO average earnings on their website, but if you can’t find it then HESA share this data).
2. Explore Course Modules
Reviewing course modules is essential when choosing your Master’s degree. All UK universities should list these on their course webpages. If you have clear career goals and want to specialise, opt for focused programs like ‘Finance’. Whereas broader courses such as ‘Business and Management’ usually cover diverse topics (including Finance, Marketing, and Strategy), offering flexibility to explore your interests. Align your choice with your career goals and the level of specialisation you need.
It is becoming increasingly common for UK Master’s degree to now include practical or work-based modules, such as real business projects or collaborations with industry representatives. If gaining hands-on experience is important to you, check the module details carefully.
3. Register for Email Updates and Attend Virtual Events
While you may be hesitant to join another mailing list, registering for email updates about your chosen courses is a good idea. You’ll receive tailored emails highlighting what makes that course or university unique, and you might be invited to webinars where you can preview the course experience and meet the teaching staff.
Check the ‘international’ section of university websites for virtual open days and webinars for international students. These events can help you imagine your potential student experience, and you can usually ask questions and receive answers in real time.
4. Connect with Current Students, Alumni, or Course Directors
Visit your chosen university's website to see if there are opportunities to chat with student ambassadors. Many universities use platforms like Unibuddy or The Ambassador Platform, where you can connect with current students or alumni. If you can’t find this option, reach out directly to the university - express your interest in a specific course and explain that you need to speak to a current student or recent graduate to help you make your decision.
You can also ask to connect with the Course Director (this is the academic who oversees the course overall, and likely teaches some of the course). Don’t be intimidated about reaching out to an academic with your questions; as long as you meet (or are expected to meet) the entry requirements, they are often happy to help. However, be sure to check the course webpage first to see if your questions have already been answered!
5. Compare Scholarships
Cost is an important factor when choosing a UK Master’s course, so be sure to explore the Scholarship Scanner database. This resource can help you identify any scholarships or tuition fee discounts that you may be eligible for, ensuring you make the most informed financial decision.
Have you secured your scholarship yet? Explore the Scholarship Scanner database and compare UK university scholarships for undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and postgraduate (Master’s) courses.
