Preparing for postgraduate study

What study skills will I need?

To study successfully at postgraduate level, you’ll need to be able to:

• find and read research material that has been written for experts rather than students
• critically analyse findings – including statistical analysis
• follow academic convention when presenting findings and ideas, references and bibliographies
• carry out reflective practice (relating others’ theories to your own studies).

An undergraduate degree or equivalent is the ideal preparation for postgraduate study – although other qualifications, university-level study or professional experience may also be appropriate. You’ll find detailed information about entry requirements in the qualification descriptions, which also include:

• other knowledge and skills you might need (such as level of English if it’s not your first language)
• requirements relating to the context of your study (for example, education students may need access to a group of learners; healthcare students may need access to a healthcare setting)
• diagnostic quizzes to help you decide if you’re ready
• advice about routes through the qualification
• time limits for completion.

Find out more about skills for postgraduate study.

Steps to Postgraduate Study

This external site offers impartial advice and an independent guide for anyone considering a taught postgraduate course, for more information visit Steps to Postgraduate Study 

How long will it take?

The time it takes to complete a qualification depends on the number of credits you study in a year. Most postgraduate students study part time, at the rate of 60 credits a year – which requires studying for about 16 hours a week. The table below gives you an idea of how long it will take to complete a qualification. These are just typical examples, so please check qualification descriptions for the most accurate information. It may be possible to study for some qualifications at a faster rate, but most people find this too intense, especially if they’re working at the same time.

Time required to complete typical postgraduate qualifications