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💡 Taught Masters vs Research Masters:

There are many types of Master’s degrees, and most of these are Taught Masters . In the United Kingdom, such programmes are also called postgraduate taught or PGT for short. They typically require completing a set number of modules and a thesis (also called dissertation), plus sometimes work experience through a placement. The type of dissertation you will undertake will depend on the type of Master’s degree you are enrolled in, and might for example include your own small research project. Most postgraduate taught degrees have these elements of independent work and research to varying extents.

In contrast, a Research Master ’ s degree will focus on, you guessed it, research. In the UK, such programmes are also called postgraduate research or PGR (although this term may also refer to doctorate programmes). Rather than attending classes every semester and completing module assignments, you will need to focus on an independent research project – under supervision, of course. The course will still include a few taught modules, most often on research methodologies, but it will require you to work independently for most of the time.

Master’s degrees in the UK are usually one year full-time or two years part-time, but in other countries the duration may differ.

Remember: A final dissertation will be compulsory for all Master ’ s degrees. However, a dissertation for an MRes will typically be longer than that for an MA or MSc.

Typically, Research Masters will lead to an MRes degree. At some universities, however, you'll instead be awarded an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) or MLitt (Master of Letters). For more information, have a look at our detailed glossary.

🤔 Is a Research Master’s the same as a PhD?

No, a Research Master’s degree is not the same as a PhD. Although for both degrees you will need to complete a dissertation based on an independent research project, there are notable differences:

• The first difference is the duration : A Master’s degree will typically last one to two years, while a PhD usually takes up about three to five years. The research project you’ll undertake during a doctorate degree will therefore be longer and broader than one you would pursue in a Master’s degree.
• As a PhD student, you’re expected to publish research papers in journals before you are awarded your degree. MRes students might occasionally do that during or after their studies, but it’s rarely obligatory.
• As a PhD student, you’ll most often be expected to take on other duties , such as teaching.

If you wish to pursue doctoral research and a career in academia, a research Master’s degree could be a great option for you as it will allow you to get to grips with and gather valuable experience and training on independent research early on in your studies.

👀 Overview: What’s the difference?

There are a few differences between Taught Masters and Research Masters , and not all of them are obvious.

The table below outlines some of the main elements to consider when choosing which of the two degrees to pursue after your Bachelor’s degree:

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🏛️ Which should you choose?

The choice between a taught Master’s and a research Master’s depends on a few factors.

• First of all, do you enjoy research more than coursework? Then an MRes may be more suitable – but remember that any Master’s degree, especially an MSc, will have a research component.
• Then, it’s crucial to understand how you like to work and study. Do you particularly enjoy working independently? Perhaps then you can consider an MRes. In a taught Master’s, you’ll have a more solid structure, timetables and regular deadlines to keep you on track, but these may not be as readily available during an MRes, so consider which environment you are more likely to thrive in.  
• Another important consideration is what you want to do after your Master’s degree. If you want to enter the labour market immediately, and you are not particularly interested in focusing on research training, then perhaps a taught Master’s degree is more suited.

💸 Is there a difference in fees between Taught and Research Masters?

No, normally, you won’t find a huge difference in tuition fees between taught and research Master’s degrees. Only in some instances, Postgraduate Research Masters tend to be cheaper.

📝 Can I do a PhD after taking a Taught Master’s Degree?

Yes, you can pursue a PhD after any type of Master’s course, provided that you have a degree in a relevant subject. All taught postgraduate degrees involve some independent work and research, especially for your dissertation, which will prepare you for further research should you choose to pursue a PhD.

Some taught Masters require more independent research work than others, particularly when it comes to the dissertation after completing the taught modules. Consult the curriculum or ask admissions staff to get a better idea of what to expect.

While a taught Master’s degree won’t prevent you from doing a PhD further down the line, it’s vital that you have a good idea of what requirements you will have to fulfil in order to be admitted to the PhD, and how you can best prepare.

If you already have a clear idea of what field you’d like to conduct your doctoral research in, you could take advantage of the joint Master’s – PhD programmes on offer at some universities.

These four-year programmes – also called “combined” or “integrated” degrees – offer the chance to complete a Master’s degree in the first year and to progress seamlessly to PhD research in the next three.

Looking for Masters in Europe? Have a look at these English-taught degrees 👀

Author: Claudia Civinini

Claudia has many years of experience as a reporter and writer on international education and student mobility. Originally from Italy, she holds a BA in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Genova; a Graduate Diploma in Education, Secondary Education and Teaching from the Australian Catholic University; and a joint MSc in Educational Neuroscience from UCL and Birkbeck, University of London. Claudia has previously worked as Chief Reporter for the English Language Gazette, as Senior Reporter for the PIE News (Professionals in International Education), and as Reporter for Tes.

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What is the difference between postgraduate coursework and postgraduate research degrees?

Postgraduate coursework : If you are thinking about further study after you have completed your Bachelor degree and begun your work career, you may want to consider postgraduate study. You will study subjects in a suggested course structure rather that undertake purely research work. The program of learning is to deepen knowledge and skills in the same discipline or broaden knowledge and skills in a different discipline or profession.   Federation University  provides you with a wide range of postgraduate coursework courses for you to explore. These courses can usually be studied online or on campus, and are offered at a variety of levels including:

• Graduate certificates
• Graduate diplomas

Postgraduate Research : If you have already completed study in a particular field at a high level and want to develop your knowledge through original research, you might want to consider postgraduate research study.

In a postgraduate research course you will complete a major thesis under supervision of a senior academic.  Federation provides a range of postgraduate research courses at the following levels:

• Masters by Research

You can explore both postgraduate coursework and research degree options in the Course Finder pages.

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Difference Between Undergraduate, Graduate and Postgraduate

Jennifer Finetti Aug 12, 2022

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As a high school student , you’ve probably started thinking about college. Maybe you even started to do research and narrow down your options. You may have come across the following terms: undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate degrees.

So, what is the difference between undergraduate and graduate and postgraduate?

Read on to learn more! 

What is an undergraduate degree?

After students finish high school, they get an undergraduate degree. An undergraduate degree refers to either a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree. When people talk about going to college or university , they are talking about getting an undergraduate degree.

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How many years is an undergraduate degree?

There are two levels of undergraduate degrees: associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees. An associate degree requires 2 years to complete, and typically is earned at a community college . A bachelor’s degree requires completion of four years of study.

Students interested in earning a bachelor’s degree can either complete their entire degree at a four-year college or university OR they can attend a community college for their first two years, and then transfer to a university for their final two years.

What is a graduate degree?

After a student gets their undergraduate degree, they have two options. They may either get a job or continue with their studies. If they choose to continue with their studies, they pursue a graduate degree.

A graduate degree is any degree that is above a bachelor’s degree. This includes a master’s degree or doctoral degree . Master’s degrees take around 2-3 years to complete. Doctoral degrees take around 5-6 years.

Graduate degrees are typically more narrowly-focused than an undergraduate degree. This enables students to dive more deeply into their specific career interest, gaining the knowledge and expertise needed in their chosen field. Oftentimes, a student must have a graduate degree to get a job. Somebody seeking a career as a clinical social worker, must have their Master’s of Social Work.

You don’t have to get a graduate degree right after you finish your undergraduate degree. Many students take a break after their undergraduate degree and decide to work or travel instead. It’s common to see mature students in their late 20s and 30s (and even older) who decide to go back to school to get a graduate degree later in life.

To get accepted into graduate school, you must have a bachelor’s degree. This means that you must graduate from a 4-year undergraduate college or university. A student can only pursue a graduate degree if they already have a bachelor’s degree.

What is a postgraduate degree?

Students get confused with the term “postgraduate degree.” There actually isn’t a real difference between the two. Postgraduate is used interchangeably with graduate. Like a graduate degree, postgraduate refers to the range of higher degrees past the undergraduate degree. This includes both master’s degrees and Phds .

Difference between undergraduate and graduate and postgraduate

Undergraduate degree programs and graduate degree programs are very different from one another. Undergraduate programs help students gain basic knowledge in a major , or even in a few majors. Students must take a variety of courses, and not only courses relating to their major. They usually spend the first few years fulfilling general course requirements.  

Graduate programs are very different. You go to graduate school to learn something very specific. So, all the courses you take relate to your field of study.

Another big difference between the two is switching majors. In undergraduate programs, students aren’t always sure what they want to major in . Even if they choose a specific major, they may end up changing it. Undergraduate programs allow students to switch majors. It is also fairly easy to transfer to another school for any given reason.

Because graduate programs are so specific, it’s not easy to switch your field of study. You would have to fulfill new requirements and go through the application process all over again.

Another big difference is class size. Undergraduate classes tend to be much larger than graduate classes. In graduate programs, class sizes are much smaller.

Because of the difference in class size, teacher-student interaction also differs. In undergraduate programs, there isn’t much room to interact with your professors. There are also fewer opportunities to participate in class.

Graduate programs are more intimate and thus, more dynamic. Students have more opportunities to participate in class discussions. They also have more opportunities to work with their professors.

To get accepted into an undergraduate program, students must take the SAT or ACT . Other requirements include a minimum GPA , letters of recommendation  and personal statements . Colleges and universities all have their own requirements.

Many graduate programs require students to take an entrance exam such as the GRE, or specialized entrance exams for law school or medical school. Not all graduate programs require an entrance exam, so be sure to check the requirements for the program you are applying for.

Graduate programs also typically require that certain undergraduate classes be completed prior to applying, so you’ll want to check to be sure that you have completed any required courses. Sometimes graduate programs will allow you to complete missing prerequisites while enrolled in your graduate degree program.  

Final thoughts

Whether you have already started your bachelor’s degree or you’re still in high school, it’s nice to get an idea of what your options are. This can help you plan the classes you want to take in college or university and make the most of your degree.

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Jennifer Finetti

As a parent who recently helped her own kids embark on their college journeys, Jennifer approaches the transition from high school to college from a unique perspective. She truly enjoys engaging with students – helping them to build the confidence, knowledge, and insight needed to pursue their educational and career goals, while also empowering them with the strategies and skills needed to access scholarships and financial aid that can help limit college costs. She understands the importance of ensuring access to the edtech tools and resources that can make this process easier and more equitable - this drive to support underserved populations is what drew her to ScholarshipOwl. Jennifer has coached students from around the world, as well as in-person with local students in her own community. Her areas of focus include career exploration, major selection, college search and selection, college application assistance, financial aid and scholarship consultation, essay review and feedback, and more. She works with students who are at the top of their class, as well as those who are struggling. She firmly believes that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can succeed if they stay focused and work hard in school. Jennifer earned her MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, and her BA in Psychology from University of California, Santa Cruz.

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Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s Degree: What’s the Difference?

Learn the similarities and differences between these two postgraduate academic credentials.

Mary Sharp Emerson

Adding a postgraduate credential like a master’s degree or a graduate certificate to your resume can be a great way to advance your career. It might even be a stepping stone on the pathway to an exciting career change. 

Knowing which credential to choose, however, can be challenging.

A master’s degree and a graduate certificate can both be valuable. They have many similarities. But they are not interchangeable. 

Understanding the differences between them before you go back to school can help ensure that you choose the right one.

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is an academic postgraduate credential designed to help you build broad, foundational expertise in a specific field or discipline. Completing a master’s usually (although not always) requires several years of coursework and a thesis or capstone project.

Master’s degrees are offered by a university or other accredited academic institution. To earn your master’s degree, you’ll have to successfully complete a set number of credit hours. 

Most master’s degree programs require 10-12 courses. To earn many of the master’s degrees at Harvard Extension School, for example, you’ll have to earn a B or higher in 12 courses (48 credits). However, each master’s degree program will define its requirements slightly differently. 

Depending on the specific program, you will likely have to complete several required courses. You’ll also have the option to tailor your program by choosing electives in areas of special interest to you.

You may also be required to complete a research or capstone project or a thesis. This project will allow you to customize your program even more, as well as further demonstrate expertise in a specialized area. 

Some master’s degree programs require a full-time, on-campus commitment. Many master’s degree programs today, however, can be completed part time (often partially or fully online). Although this takes longer than attending full time, you can continue to work while earning your degree.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a master’s degree program .

Explore master’s degree programs at Harvard Extension School.

What is a Graduate Certificate?

Similar to a master’s degree, a graduate certificate is a credit-based academic credential offered by a university. However, a graduate certificate is more narrowly focused on a specialized field than a master’s degree.

Graduate certificates are a significantly smaller investment in time and money than a master’s. They usually require completion of between three and five graduate-level courses. Most graduate certificates at Harvard Extension require four courses, for example.

You can earn a graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential. Although a graduate certificate is not an academic degree, you may be able to stack your certificate coursework toward a master’s degree.

You can find graduate certificates in a wide range of fields. Technical certificate topics include cybersecurity and data science , for instance. 

If you’re in management, you may want to supplement your corporate knowledge with a certificate in nonprofit or strategic management . Or you may want to improve your leadership skills with a graduate certificate in social justice or equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging . 

Most graduate certificates can be completed part time. Many offer a variety of class formats, including asynchronous or synchronous online courses and in-person courses. 

Explore Graduate Certificates at Harvard Extension School.

How is a graduate certificate different from a professional certification?

A graduate certificate is not the same as a professional or industry certification.

A professional certification is a nonacademic credential awarded by a professional or industry organization. Earning a professional certification usually requires passing a test or exam demonstrating knowledge of a set of skills or a specific tool. You may need to take a class or complete coursework to pass the exam. 

For example, to earn a Project Management Graduate Certificate at Harvard Extension School, you have to earn at least a B in four graduate-level courses in management, leadership, and strategy. To earn a Project Management Professional Certification , offered by the PMI Institute, you have to meet the PMI Institute qualification requirements and pass the PMP exam. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: What Are the Key Differences?

Understanding the key differences between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree is the first step in choosing between these two credentials. 

Here are some points of comparison that may help guide your decision-making process:

• Required number of courses: Graduate certificates usually require significantly fewer courses than a master’s degree. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, most graduate certificates require four courses. Most master’s programs require 10 to 12 courses. 
• Degree of specialization : A master’s degree is designed to give you broad and deep knowledge in a field. A graduate certificate is more narrowly focused; you can build specialized skills in an area. For example, you could earn a master’s degree in sustainability and a graduate certificate in sustainable food systems. 
• Level of commitment : Graduate certificates are designed with the working professional in mind. Most certificates can be completed online, with flexible live or on-demand class offerings. Master’s degree programs vary significantly in their flexibility and the extent to which they tailor to working professionals. Some master’s degrees, for example, may be fully in person or may require that a percentage of your classes be taken on campus.
• Cost and financial aid : Graduate certificates cost less to complete than master’s degree programs because you are required to complete fewer credits. However, once you are enrolled in a master’s degree program, you may be eligible for federal and state student loans and grants. Students working toward a certificate are not eligible for student loans, although private loans and employer tuition assistance may still be an option. 
• Admissions process : Starting a certificate may have fewer admissions requirements than enrolling in a master’s degree program. You may be able to complete a certificate simply by taking (and passing) the appropriate classes. The admissions process for a master’s degree program varies greatly. Some master’s degree programs, for example, require a formal application process. To begin the admissions process at Harvard Extension School, on the other hand, you first successfully complete a set number of courses in the master’s degree course of study. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: Which is Best for Me?

When it comes to choosing a graduate certificate or master’s degree, there’s no right or wrong choice. 

Both credentials—when earned from a reputable, accredited university—demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge in your field. And they also demonstrate your ability and commitment to lifelong learning, a trait highly valued by many employers.

Your choice will depend on the skills you hope to gain, your unique career goals, and the level of commitment—both in time and in money—you can make to a graduate program.

Benefits of a Graduate Certificate

A graduate certificate may be most valuable for individuals who want to fill a gap in your skillset or deepen your understanding of a topic area that relates to your work. A graduate certificate might also be best for you if you find yourself unable to commit to the time or cost that it would take to complete a master’s program. Graduate certificates are a great option for students seeking to continue their education while working full time.

Benefits of a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree demonstrates a broader, more advanced breadth of knowledge across a particular field. The knowledge and skills you gain from a master’s program may be transferable across multiple career paths. While it may take longer and cost more to earn your master’s degree, the long-term benefits should make the hard work and commitment worth it.

Stacking Your Credentials

In some cases, you may find you don’t have to choose. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, the courses you take to earn a certificate may also apply to a master’s degree program. Many graduate students complete one or more graduate certificates while completing a master’s degree.

Going back to school is a big decision — one that can have a critical impact on your career. The good news is that there are many options and opportunities for continuing your education. Whether you choose a graduate certificate or a master’s, both can be an excellent investment in your future.

Ready to get started? Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all graduate programs at Harvard Extension School.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

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What is a postgraduate degree?

Here’s everything you need to know.

Open the door to an exciting career with postgraduate study at UNSW!

You may not know what exactly a postgraduate degree is, or which degree is right for you, here we break down everything you need to know about postgraduate study.

Postgraduate study offers plenty of options for you to propel your career or embark upon new ambitions or passions. You can learn to lead with confidence and curiosity through a Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Master's Degree. 

What is a postgraduate (PG) degree?

A postgraduate course or postgraduate diploma is additional tertiary study after you’ve completed an undergraduate degree. Postgraduate study expands your career horizons and can accelerate your career. UNSW graduates have been the most in-demand graduates in Australia for five consecutive years.*

As a postgraduate candidate, maybe you studied a Bachelor of Commerce a few years ago, and you’re looking to add a specialised skill to your CV. You could enrol in a Graduate Certificate in Leadership  to take your career in a new direction through new skills and knowledge.

If you don’t have a bachelor degree, but you have equivalent work experience, you can still accelerate your career and deepen your experience through part-time or full-time postgraduate study.

What are the different PG degree options?

There are three types of postgraduate degrees, graduate diplomas,   graduate certificates and master's degrees . UNSW offers a range of postgraduate study options so you can choose the right degree for you depending on your career goals, areas of interest, and how much time you can invest in study. 

Check out our article on the types of postgraduate degrees , but here’s a quick comparison.

• Graduate Certificate
• Graduate Diploma
• Master's Degree

Graduate Certificates at UNSW

A Graduate certificate is a short PG degree qualification that is made up of four subjects, so it can be completed in as little as six months. Graduate Certificates are usually designed for those who already have experience in a certain area or field of study and want to uplevel or diversify their knowledge base. Each institution will have different entry requirements too. Here at UNSW, you’ll likely need to have a Bachelor Degree or a minimum number of years’ experience - you can check with the faculty when you apply.

Graduate Diplomas at UNSW

Postgraduate diplomas are a practical, hands-on way of learning that will help you navigate ever-evolving workplaces. Postgraduate diplomas are a great way to accrue new knowledge and learn about changing industry practice or move into a new sector.

The balance of vocational experience and academic knowledge in a postgraduate diploma will take your career to the next step and unlock the future you want. Postgraduate diplomas are also less intensive than a full master's degree, so it’s ideal if you’re trying to balance work and study. 

Master's Degree at UNSW

A master's degree is a postgraduate qualification designed to make you a subject matter expert in a specialist field, developing high-level techniques and skills required for your chosen area of study. Master's degrees are either coursework or research-based. On the research side of things, you’re usually engaged in independent study, embarking on a short-term research project. At UNSW, we also offer master's coursework (also known as coursework master's), which is an advanced level, specialised offering of lectures, seminars and supervision. 

Wondering what's your best path for postgraduate study?

The best path depends on what you hope to get out of your postgraduate study once complete. With a UNSW postgraduate degree, you'll be empowered and supported to challenge yourself at a leading university, cultivating excellence in adaptive thinking. Australians need to constantly upskill to ensure that they have the right skills at the right time to thrive in their careers.

You can secure your career ambitions with UNSW’s postgraduate degrees and take your place amongst Australia’s most employable graduates. UNSW is ranked 1st in Australia for Graduate Employability^.

If you’re looking to grow your career postgraduate study is an investment in your future. Whether it’s a promotion at work, the desire to take your career to the next level or broadening your knowledge and skills, getting clear on what you want is going to help you make the decision about what to study. 

Why study a postgraduate degree at UNSW?

At UNSW, we offer options to help you make the right choice for your future:

• Flexible study arrangements  – many of our graduates balance work and study, and we have online options available to suit your needs too.
• Practical courses  – PG degrees are designed to upskill you, and uplevel your career, so we offer a range of hands-on courses in specific study areas where you’ll learn from academics with real-world experience and industry connections.
• Transferable skills are in demand  – being able to step into a new aspect of your role with ease is paramount to success in today’s changing world, and PG study will give you the edge.

Take the opportunity to join a collective that creates solutions for a better world. Have a read of our ' reasons why postgraduate study is worth the investment '.

Why a postgraduate course might be for you

• Gain an edge
• Boost your earning potential
• Gain the skills to forge your own path

Postgraduate study is a great option for your career because it gives you the edge against your colleagues or other candidates. When you hold a postgraduate degree you'll showcase yourself as a leader, knowledge seeker and subject matter expert to current and future employers. At UNSW, our students are among Australia's most employable graduates, ranked #1 for employment outcomes by QS World University Rankings, 2024.

Postgraduate study can also increase your earning power. Based on research by the  National Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services  (NAGCAS), Master’s degree graduates earn approximately 48% more than those with an undergraduate degree in the same field.

Postgraduate study is just as valuable if you’re carving out your own entrepreneurial path or forging your own unique career path. According to Crunchbase venture capital start-up data in 2021, UNSW is ranked as the best overall Australian university for entrepreneurs. 

All this combined means you can take control of your own journey, propel your career or move into a field that matters to you.

Find out more about postgraduate study at UNSW today

*AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024

^#1 in Australia for Employment Outcomes, (QS World University Rankings, 2024)

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Taught vs research masters: What's the difference and which should I choose?

Table of Contents

1. taught masters meaning, 2. popular taught master courses, 1. research masters meaning, 2. popular research master courses, 1. curriculum and structure, 2. coursework, 3. duration, 3. specialisation, 4. supervision, 5. employability, taught vs research masters: which should you choose, 1. career aspirations, 2. interest in research, 3. program structure, 4. academic background, 5. time commitment, postgraduate taught vs research, can i do a phd after taking a taught masters, taught vs research masters: fee difference, frequently asked questions.

So you’ve decided you want to do a masters degree and you have a rough idea of which courses you like the sound of and where you might want to study. So all that’s left to do now is apply, right?

Not quite. There’s actually one more decision to make, that you might not even have known about in the first place: would you rather study a taught or research masters?

Both course types involve a high level of academic study and independent work . However, a taught course offers a more familiar structure and a wider variety of subjects. It also offers more assessment modules than a research-based course, which puts more focus on in-depth research and writing. Not sure which option to choose? We’ve got you covered. Without further ado, here are the difference between taught and research masters, so you can choose the course that’s best for you.

Also Read: Canada vs USA for masters

What is a taught master's degree?

As the name suggests, the majority of a taught masters course revolves around a series of modules, each with seminars, lectures and assignments or exams.

Most taught masters degrees will also generally require you to complete a final dissertation or major research project. In other words, a masters taught degree is like a continuation of an undergraduate degree.

Also Read: 6 Masters degrees in Engineering Management that will change your life

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science (MSc)
• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)

What is a research masters degree?

A research masters is very different, both in terms of course content and structure. Rather than taking a variety of modules, each with a mixture of exams and coursework, the progression of a research masters is more fluid. You may start the course with an introductory module or set of classes focusing on developing your research and writing skills, but after that, you’ll likely have little to no timetabled hours. Instead, you will be spending your time working independently on one or more extended research projects.

• Master of Research (MRes)
• Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Taught vs research masters

Taught masters and research masters are two distinct types of masters programs that offer different approaches to education and learning. Here are the main difference between taught and research masters:

Taught masters are structured programs with a predetermined curriculum. Students take a set of modules or courses covering specific subject areas relevant to their field of study. These programs are more structured and organised, with clear learning outcomes. Unlike taught masters, research masters offer more flexibility in terms of the curriculum. Students have more freedom to design their research project within the scope of their field of study.

The focus of taught masters is on coursework, where students attend lectures, seminars, and workshops. They are assessed through exams, assignments, projects, and sometimes a dissertation or thesis. The centrepiece of a research master's program is the research project or thesis. Students are required to conduct independent research under the guidance of a supervisor or mentor.

Taught masters typically last one to two years , depending on the country and the program's requirements. Research masters may take longer to complete than Taught Masters due to the in-depth research and analysis involved.

Students often choose a specialisation within the field, but their coursework is determined by the university or department. Research masters are more research-oriented, with a significant emphasis on original research and exploration of a particular subject area.

While students have access to academic staff for guidance and support, they generally have less individualised supervision than in research-focused programs. Research masters offer more individualised supervision and mentorship as students work closely with their research advisors throughout the process.

Taught masters are generally designed to enhance employability by providing students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to their chosen career path. Research masters are often considered a pathway to a Ph.D. or further research-based careers in academia or industry.

Here's a table summarising the key difference between taught and research masters:

When it comes to deciding between a taught or research masters, you should first ask yourself what motivates you to study and what you’ve enjoyed most about your undergraduate degree. If your favourite part of your degree was researching and writing a dissertation, and you want to further develop your academic skills and potentially go on to do a PhD then it’s worth looking into research masters courses. But if you have a specific career goal outside of academia, a taught masters will allow you to gain a broader range of skills and experience to enhance your CV.

One final consideration should be what are you best at?

For example, if you struggle with essays but tend to do well in exams and presentations, then a taught masters with a wider variety of assessment modes might be a better fit for you.

At the end of the day, regardless of which option you choose, studying for a master’s degree is an invaluable experience and either course is sure to open a lot of doors for you further down the line.

Thinking about studying your taught or research masters course abroad? Let us help you find your perfect course and university today!

Should I study a taught or research Masters?

Deciding between a taught or research master's program depends on your academic and career goals, as well as your personal preferences and strengths. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Consider your career goals and the type of role you wish to pursue after completing your master's degree. If you aim to work in a profession that values specialised knowledge and practical skills, a taught master's program may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you are interested in a career in research, academia, or a field that requires advanced research capabilities, a research master's program may be a better fit.

Reflect on your interest in research. Are you passionate about conducting independent research and contributing to the knowledge in your field? If research excites you and you enjoy the process of inquiry, a research master's program could be an excellent choice.

Compare the structure and content of both types of programs. Taught master's programs typically involve a mix of lectures, seminars, and coursework, while research master's programs focus on a more significant research project. Assess which learning approach aligns better with your preferred style of study.

Consider your academic background and strengths. Research master's programs often require a strong academic record and a solid foundation in the chosen field of study, as the emphasis is on conducting original research. If your academic strengths lie in coursework and exams, a taught master's program may suit you better.

Evaluate the time commitment required for each type of program. Research master's degrees tend to be longer and more intense, as they involve substantial research and writing. Taught master's programs are usually shorter and may be more suitable if you wish to enter the job market sooner.

Take the time to research different programs, talk to current students and faculty members, and seek advice from academic advisors to make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations.

Postgraduate education in the United Kingdom offers two main pathways

• Postgraduate research programs
• Postgraduate taught programs

Postgraduate research programs focus on independent and original research, where students delve deep into a specific research question or topic within their chosen field. They work closely with a research supervisor and complete a research thesis or dissertation to contribute new knowledge to their discipline. These programs are suitable for individuals pursuing careers in academia or research.

On the other hand, postgraduate taught programs emphasise structured classroom-based learning. Students follow a set curriculum, attending lectures, seminars, and practical sessions to gain specialised knowledge and practical skills. Assessment in these programs involves coursework, exams, and sometimes a dissertation or research project.

The choice between postgraduate research vs taught depends on individual interests and career aspirations. If you have a passion for conducting independent research and want to contribute to your field, a postgraduate research program might be the right fit. However, if you seek specialised skills and industry-focused expertise, a postgraduate taught program may be more suitable.

Many students wonder if they can pursue a Ph.D. after completing a taught master's degree. The answer is yes, it is indeed possible. Universities and research institutions often welcome students who have successfully completed a taught master's program and wish to continue their academic journey by undertaking a Ph.D. program.

Completing a taught master's degree can serve as a stepping stone toward a research-based Ph.D. program. While some additional effort may be required to strengthen your research profile, many students successfully make the transition and go on to make significant contributions in their chosen fields of study.

In general, Taught Masters programs tend to be more structured and may involve a higher number of taught modules or courses, which can lead to higher tuition fees. These programs often focus on providing practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable to the job market, and the additional resources required for delivering coursework can contribute to higher fees.

On the other hand, while the fees for Research Masters can still be substantial, they might be slightly lower than Taught Masters in some cases. This is because Research Masters programs often have fewer taught modules, and students spend a significant portion of their time conducting research, which may require fewer resources compared to a more structured coursework-based program.

Which degree is right for me in the UK?

If you prefer a structured and specialised curriculum with classroom-based learning, a taught Masters may be suitable. On the other hand, if you have a strong interest in conducting independent research and contributing to your field, a research Masters could be a better fit.

Taught vs Research, which is better?

The choice between taught vs research Masters depends on your academic and career objectives. A taught Masters offers a structured curriculum with specific subject knowledge, while a research Masters focuses on independent research and academic inquiry.

What is the difference between taught and research masters?

The main difference between taught and research masters lies in their core focus. A taught Masters emphasises classroom-based learning, lectures, and assessments, providing specialised subject knowledge and skills. In contrast, a research Masters centres around conducting independent research, contributing to the existing knowledge in a field, and developing strong research skills.

Are Masters by research better?

A Masters by research offers an opportunity to engage in independent and in-depth research, making it ideal for students pursuing a career in academia or research-oriented professions. However, a taught Masters may suit those seeking specialised skills and industry-focused expertise. The decision should align with your aspirations and preferred learning style.

Why are research Masters cheaper?

Research Masters programs are often cheaper than taught Masters because they require less institutional resources.

Is a Masters by research a full Masters?

Yes, a Masters by research is considered a full Masters degree. It is a postgraduate qualification that requires the completion of a research project, dissertation, or thesis. Know someone considering postgraduate studies? Share the insights in our 'Taught vs Research Masters' article with them.

Refer a friend and help them make the right choice for their academic journey.

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What Is A Postgraduate Student? A Definition

Find your perfect postgrad program search our database of 30,000 courses.

There are plenty of people studying at university and in the UK about half a million of them are postgraduates. In simple terms, a postgraduate student is anyone who is studying a postgraduate course, including a masters degree , an MPhil and a PhD , and usually these courses require the student to have an undergraduate degree as part of the entry requirements.

There are a few different ways that postgraduate students can study, and various study strategies that they may choose to employ, and it doesn't matter if they study full time, part time or even online, whatever their schedule, they are all postgraduate students.

Full-time postgraduate students

Studying full time is a popular choice for students who have just completed their undergraduate degree and already know that a postgraduate qualification is required for their career plans. It can be a difficult transition for students who have given up full-time employment to return to university as a full-time student.

The majority of postgraduate students in England are studying full time, attending a taught course and in England, only a quarter of these students are over the age of 36 with the majority of them being 25 and under.

Most full-time postgraduate students study towards a masters degree over one to three years and if they are taking a postgraduate course that doesn't require a thesis, they are working towards a Postgraduate Diploma instead. A smaller number of postgraduates go onto study an MPhil or a PhD, and the vast majority of students working towards a PhD are full-time students who also work, often teaching in the department they are researching in.

It is usual for international students in the UK to study full-time due to visa restrictions. Full-time postgraduate students often have quite intensive study programs and usually, have less spare time than those studying at an undergraduate level, making part-time employment difficult.

Part-time postgraduate students

Studying a postgrad program part time is a popular choice for students who are slightly older or have more responsibilities such as looking after children, caring for others or working full time. Many professionals will have long-term career plans in mind and might have the backing or sponsorship from their employer for a part-time course, especially professional courses that lead to a professional qualification.

Working and studying part time is a significant undertaking as most part-time masters courses last at least two years, and unless the university arranges special lectures for part-time students then most classes will be during the day. There are some PhD students who study part time, and this is usually because they do not have the necessary funding lined-up or it is not available for their subject.

Distance learning and online postgraduate student

There are a large number of universities and institutions that cater for postgraduate students who need or want to study by distance learning or online , and most universities have some form of online learning.

Distance learning is usually a combination of textbooks and reading materials that is sent to the student, as well as the possibility of a couple of residential weeks of lectures throughout the year. Online students tend to be based entirely online and there may be no need to ever attend the campus where the course is based.

Postgraduate students who work this way tend to be professionals working full time as the coursework can be completed in the evenings. This makes the courses an intensive undertaking and the postgraduate student will need to be highly motivated to continue working without other students around them. Some postgraduate students find this way of working isolating and difficult compared to a campus-based full-time course.

Getting the balance right

Postgraduate students are all experienced in the academic work and research necessary for their subject and spend a great deal of time completing independent study projects. This means that the little free time that they spend socialising and relaxing outside of their courses is important as many postgraduate students are very focused on their future careers.

It is vital for postgraduate students to take time to view the long-term picture by networking with people in the industry or area they want to enter after completing their course.

Different types of postgraduate student

The Panicker – despite presumably having done well in SATs, GCSEs, A-Levels, a bachelors degree and perhaps even a masters degree, ‘The Panicker’ still freaks out about every single exam. Even the hint of an upcoming essay sees their nails bitten down to the root and blurry evenings of Pro Plus and books piled high.

The Wise Mature Student – like Gandalf mixed with Yoda, ‘The Wise Mature Student’ spends most of their time nodding and smiling to themselves about the things us mere mortals say in seminars. When they do deign to speak, make sure you’re listening and be ready to write it down because it’s going to be the best thing you’ve heard all day!

The Over-Enthusiastic Postgrad – at this point in your educational journey, you probably love your subject in the same way that one loves a slightly-errant brother: yes you love them, but a lot of the things they do irritate you to the core. Not so with ‘The Over-Enthusiastic Postgrad’. When they say they love their subject they mean ‘LOVE’ in capital letters.

The Quiet One – it’s a cliché, but it’s a particularly true one, it’s always ‘The Quiet One’ that you need to watch. They’ve spent years observing and listening rather than talking, and this means they not only know everything there is to know about the course, but they probably also know all your deepest darkest secrets too. It’s well worth taking them out for a drink: not only will they reveal their wisdom, but they’re famously fun when they’ve had a drink and it’s after midnight, kind of like postgrad Gremlins!

The Sport's Team Terror – they must study at some point, but you will never see them doing it. Instead, you’ll see a lot of photos on their social media streams from their nights out with the sports team and hear many stories about their exploits. They’ve been like this since school and have never lost that party spirit, yet still they succeed in their postgraduate academic qualification.

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Undergraduate vs. Graduate: Educate Yourself On The Difference

• Undergraduate Meaning
• Undergraduate Student And Degree
• Graduate Meaning
• Graduate Degree And Student
• Graduate Origin
• Postgraduate Meaning

⚡ Quick summary

The main difference between undergraduate and graduate is that undergraduate is always used in the context of the first level of college or university education (the level where you can earn a bachelor’s degree ). In terms like graduate student and graduate degree , graduate refers to a level of advanced education beyond the undergraduate level, especially a master’s degree or doctorate . The noun graduate is more general, simply referring to a person who has completed a level of education (someone who has graduated ).

The difference between undergraduate and graduate is a difference of degrees (*throws graduation cap in the air to celebrate the pun*).

The level of education that each word involves varies depending on how the word is being used, and there are situations in which both words can be used in the same situation. For example, you can become a graduate student after graduating with an undergraduate degree.

The word graduate can mean very different things depending on whether it’s used as a noun (as in recent   high school graduates ), an adjective (as in graduate student and graduate degree ), or a verb (as in I plan to graduate next May ). The same goes for its shortened form, grad , which can be used as a noun (as in Congrats, grads! ) or an adjective (as in grad program ).

Undergraduate can also be used both as a noun (as in I’m an undergraduate at Stanford University ) or an adjective (as in I’m working toward my undergraduate degree ). It can be shortened to undergrad in both cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have an advanced degree in all the different ways graduate, grad , undergraduate , and undergrad are used, and what they mean in each case.

What does undergraduate mean?

An undergraduate is “a student in a university or college who has not received a first, especially a bachelor’s, degree.” For example, a college student might say I’m an undergraduate at the University of Texas if they were pursuing a bachelor’s degree there.

Undergraduate is also commonly used as an adjective in this same context, in terms like undergraduate student , undergraduate degree , and undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate is often shortened to undergrad as both a noun and an adjective.

In undergraduate, the prefix under- is used to indicate a lower rank or status. The educational status of an undergraduate student is below that of a graduate student.

What’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge ? Here’s a lesson on the two terms.

What is an undergraduate student ? And what is an undergraduate degree ?

An undergraduate student is a student who is pursuing a degree at the first level of higher education (meaning the level after high school) at a college or university. Undergraduate students are typically those working to earn a bachelor’s degree (or, less commonly, an associate’s degree ). These degrees are often referred to with the general term undergraduate degree.

Outside of the US, an undergraduate degree is sometimes called a first degree. There are also other types of undergraduate degrees outside of the US, such as a foundation degree (which, like an associate’s degree, is typically a two-year degree).

What does graduate mean?

As a noun, the word graduate  [  graj -oo-it ] refers to “a person who has received a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” In other words, a graduate is someone who has completed a particular level of schooling or an educational program—a child who just finished kindergarten and a doctor who just completed medical school are both graduates. It can even be used figuratively , as in She’s a graduate of the school of hard knocks.

As a verb, graduate [  graj -oo-eyt ] means “to receive a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” The process of graduating—and the ceremony itself—is called graduation .

As an adjective, graduate [  graj -oo-it ] means something more specific. It’s used to indicate that a student, degree, or educational program is an advanced one, beyond the level of a bachelor’s degree. This sense of graduate is most commonly used in terms like graduate degree, graduate school , graduate program, and graduate student.

What is a graduate degree ? And what is a graduate student ?

Graduate degree typically refers to a degree beyond a bachelor’s, most commonly a master’s.

A graduate student is a student who’s pursuing an advanced degree after having earned their undergraduate degree (such as a bachelor’s degree) by graduating from an undergraduate program. Calling someone a graduate student most often means they are pursuing their master’s degree, but it may be another advanced degree, such as a PhD (You’d most commonly call such students PhD students. Or you might say they are working toward their doctorate or their doctoral degree.)

To earn a graduate degree, graduate students go to a division of a university known as graduate school , and such a program is often called a graduate program. In all of these terms, graduate is often shortened to grad : grad school , grad student , grad program . (A student doesn’t become a graduate student until they take graduate-level courses. For example, if a student graduates with a bachelor’s degree and then later pursues a different bachelor’s degree, they are still an undergraduate student .)

Some graduate studies are referred to in more specific ways: medical students go to medical school to earn their medical degree ; law students go to law school to earn their law degree.

Do you know the difference between these highly-esteemed graduate degrees and titles: PhD, MD, and Dr ?

Where does the word graduate come from?

Graduate comes from the Medieval Latin graduārī, meaning “to take a degree.” It ultimately derives from the Latin gradus, meaning “a step.” Each time you graduate, you take a step to the next level of education.

What does postgraduate mean?

The adjective postgraduate is sometimes used in the same way as the adjective sense of the word graduate, especially in the UK, as in postgraduate student or postgraduate studies.

Postgraduate should not be confused with postdoctoral , which refers to studies, research, or professional work above the level of a doctorate.

How to use undergraduate vs. graduate

The best way to sort out the different meanings of undergraduate and graduate is to determine whether each word is being used as a noun, an adjective, or a verb. Here’s an easy breakdown of the differences.

• undergraduate (noun): A college student pursuing a non-advanced degree, most commonly a bachelor’s degree. Can be shortened to undergrad.
• undergraduate (adjective): Used in the context of colleges and university programs ( undergraduate programs ) where students are pursuing a degree (generally referred to as an undergraduate degree ) that is not an advanced degree. Also sometimes shortened to undergrad.
• graduate (noun): A person who has completed a particular level of schooling or educational program. Can be shortened to grad.
• graduate (verb): To complete a level of schooling (and, typically, to receive a degree or diploma). You can graduate from kindergarten, high school, college, graduate school, medical school, etc.
• graduate (adjective): Used in the context of advanced schooling—a level beyond a bachelor’s degree, most commonly a master’s program. Used in terms like graduate student , graduate school , graduate degree , graduate program , graduate courses , etc. Often shortened to grad.

Examples of undergraduate, undergrad, graduate, and grad used in a sentence

Let’s look at some examples of these words in actual, real-life use to get the meanings straight.

• As an undergraduate, she had studied engineering; as a graduate student, she switched to architecture.
• I completed my undergraduate degree after five years and a lot of hard work.
• As a graduate student, you will be expected to complete a thesis.
• You should start thinking about graduate school applications before you graduate.
• Most of the applicants for this position are recent college graduates.
• I’m still an undergrad, but I’m hoping to start grad school next fall.
• I’m a UGA grad, but I almost went to Georgia Tech.

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University of St Andrews Postgraduate Research Scholarships

The University of St Andrews is pleased to offer a range of scholarships for new postgraduate research students, based on academic merit and/or financial need. Many of these scholarships are made possible through generous donations from alumni and friends of the University.

The value of individual scholarships will vary, and will usually be paid annually for the duration of the student's research programme, excluding continuation and any extension periods. The scholarships are all based on academic merit, and some also on financial need.

Research applicants of any fee status (Home or International) are welcome to apply, although geography, subject and level of study criteria will vary between the scholarships that are available. Full details about each scholarship are provided on the individual webpages:

• St Leonard’s College World-Leading Doctoral Scholarships

You can only apply once for the above scholarships. If further scholarships become available in this scheme after you have applied, you will automatically be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible, without having to apply again.

Value of award (per year)

Up to full tuition fees and stipend paid at UK Research Council rates. Award amounts will vary; see individual webpages for full details.

Duration of award

Most awards are for the duration of the student's research programme, excluding continuation and any extension periods.

At what stage of my course application can I apply for this scholarship?

Please apply for the award after you have submitted your application for a place at St Andrews. You do not need to wait until you have received an offer of a place before applying for the award.

Application restrictions

Study level.

Available to students studying at:

Available to students studying:

Domicile for fee status

Application assessment, available to, mode of study, geographical criteria, additional criteria.

You must have applied for a postgraduate research programme: MPhil, PhD, MSc(Res), MSt(Res), EngD or MFA. Some scholarships may only be available to specific programmes (e.g. doctoral/PhD level).

In support of your application, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• University transcript(s), including interim transcripts for any degrees pending.
• Research proposal
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resumé.

If you wish to be considered for scholarships based on financial need, we recommend using the funding financial profile to help calculate your household income before you apply. You can find the funding financial profile in Scholarships and Funding, "Create my funding financial profile". Applicants must also articulate a need for support through a personal financial statement.

How to apply

These scholarships are available through the University of St Andrews Postgraduate Research Scholarships application in the Scholarships and Funding catalogue , in the Scholarships and Funding section of My Application . After submitting this application, you will be considered automatically for any scholarships under this scheme for which you are eligible, based on your answers in the application form.

• After you have applied for your chosen  postgraduate course beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, you must allow at least three working days  for processing and issue of your log in details before you can apply for this scholarship.
• If you are a current student at St Andrews, you can access Scholarships and Funding through  MySaint . However, you should wait until after you have applied for your intended postgraduate programme before doing so, to ensure that the scholarship application is linked to the correct course.

Scholarship application form guidance

Terms and conditions

Please read the University of St Andrews scholarships terms and conditions (opens in new tab)

If you wish to be considered for any scholarships funded by donors, please be aware of the following requirements:

• Core personal details may be passed to the benefactors of your scholarship. Your name, the name of your town of origin, school/college and subject of study will be passed to the donor of the scholarship with your consent.
• Your scholarship award in subsequent years of study is conditional upon your successful completion of the academic requirements to progress in your proposed subject of study at the University of St Andrews.  If your scholarship is subject-related then your award is usually also conditional upon your continuing to study that specific subject.
• Attendance at Development related scholarship events  (including invitations to meet the donors) is strongly encouraged. You will be invited to these as appropriate by the Development Office.
• Submission of reports throughout the period of scholarship support. You are required to submit an Introductory Biography at the start of your award period and the Development Office will contact you towards the end of the academic session for a report on your time at St Andrews to share with the donors of your award. This will be an annual cycle for the duration of your award.
• If you apply to these scholarships, details from your course application may be passed to the selection panel solely for the purpose of merit-based assessment.

When will I know the outcome?

The outcome of your scholarship application will be available on "View my applications" in the Scholarships and Funding section of  My Application by late March 2025.

If you are successful for any of the scholarships that are part of this scheme, you will also receive an award letter with full details of the scholarship you have been offered.

[email protected]  

MA Social Work

Key Details

Course Overview

Study social work at one of the most highly regarded centres in the UK, internationally renowned for its leading role in social work education and research. You’ll graduate with a professional qualification and a body of knowledge and skills that open a wide range of exciting, rewarding and challenging employment opportunities.

You’ll develop your skills as a future social worker through teaching that emphasises reflective and relationship-based practice, combined with challenging and thought-provoking placement opportunities provided by our local partner agencies. Many of our lecturers are actively involved in research and nearly all are experienced practitioners. Importantly, current practitioners and people with lived experience are involved in teaching activities across the course. This means our teaching draws on leading research, while providing you with a direct insight into the latest social work issues and evidence-based practice. 

At UEA, we pride ourselves on the support we provide for our students. As part of this, you’ll have an academic adviser, who’ll take an active interest in your professional development when at university and while on placement. From day one you’ll join a community and do a course with people and relationships at their core. 

Placements and practice-based learning are central to social work education at UEA. These are undertaken in partnership with social work employers and organisations and will offer you experiences in at least two contrasting settings. Your learning on placement is supported by a qualified practice educator who will guide and assess your practice. During your placement, you’ll gain experiences that you'll draw on in the classroom, and have regular ‘call back’ days, where you return to the University to develop the links between theory and practice.

We’ll ensure you have a blend of opportunities to bring together the academic, practical and lived experience of social work in your teaching and learning opportunities. You’ll graduate ready for a career as a first-rate practitioner and could go on to become a successful senior manager or distinguished academic. 

Accreditations

Our Social Work Master’s is accredited by Social Work England (SWE) and allows graduates to apply for registration as a social worker in England.  

Study and Modules

Our course will teach you about the theoretical foundations of social work, which are rooted in psychology and sociology. You’ll explore social policy and the laws surrounding working with children and families, people with mental health issues, and vulnerable adults. And you’ll focus on what it means to work with individuals, families, groups, fellow social workers and other professionals. 

Your learning will take many forms – lectures, seminars, group discussions, tutorials and workshops, simulated practice and recorded role plays to help you learn from them. You’ll benefit from professionals, people with lived experience being at the heart of our teaching. 

You’ll also study the legal and social policy context of social work practice and apply your learning from across the programme in your Level 1 (70 days) placement. 

Compulsory Modules

Legal and social policy context of social work, professional theory and practice, working with service users i.

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.

Teaching and Learning

We value our involvement in the Suffolk and Norfolk Social Work Teaching Partnership, which ensures social work education in the region meets the needs of students and employers. Your social work degree will combine lectures and seminars that encourage and require you to contribute. Crucially our teaching foregrounds current practice, along with the experiences of professionals, and people with lived experience.

The amount of teaching varies in year 1, but you’ll average around 25 hours per week of lectures and seminars in semester 1. In semester 2 the contact time increases, and you’ll average 37 ½ hours per week for your level 1 placement. 

Assessment 

In each module, you’ll undertake a formative assessment, from which you’ll receive feedback. This will help prepare you for your summative assessment which contributes to your overall mark. All summative assessments must be passed before a student can progress to the next year of study.

You’ll experience a range of assessment methods, including essays, presentations, recorded role-plays, an exam, a case study and practice-based portfolio.  

You’ll receive constructive feedback on your formative and summative assessments to encourage your development. We aim to return feedback within 20 working days.  

In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of social work practice through specialist teaching and your Level 2 (100 days) placement. Finally, you’ll have the chance to study a topic of your choice in depth by completing a literature review-based dissertation, with the support of one of our academic advisers. 

DISSERTATION

Working with service users ii, professional development.

Your second-year ranges from 10 hours per week during teaching periods to 37 ½ hours per week during your level 2 placement. The course concludes with self-directed study as you complete your dissertation.

Independent study

As this is a Master’s-level course, you’ll be responsible for a significant amount of independent study. Your dissertation is a literature-based review where you'll explore an aspect of social work that interests you. This will help you develop confidence in analysing information as well as skills such as time management and organisation.

Student voice

We are totally committed to the continued development of our teaching quality. We provide you with a number of ways to feedback on teaching and the course, for example through module reviews, debriefing meetings, and the Staff-Student Liaison Committee. Each helps us monitor, evaluate and develop our programme. 

In each module, you’ll undertake a formative assessment, on which you’ll receive feedback. This will prepare you for your summative assessment, which will contribute to your overall mark. All summative assessments must be passed before a student can progress to the next year of study. 

You’ll experience a range of assessment methods including essays, presentations, a case study, dissertation and practice-based portfolio.  

Entry Requirements

UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.

We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we  accept for entry.   

You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.  

All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade 4.  

In place of Mathematics GCSE we can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics.

Bachelor Degree (Hons)

2:2 or above. 

Following the initial screening an 800-1000 word essay will be requested and has to be submitted prior to consideration to interview. Full essay guidance will be sent to applicants at the time of the request.  We also require a Declaration of Suitability form to be completed which will be sent to you at the same time as the essay request.

All applicants are required to have gained some paid or voluntary work experience of helping people and working with others in a Social Work/Social Care environment.  Further information about work experience can be found in our  Work Experience Leaflet .   We recognise that work experience opportunities may have been limited, please do contact Admissions to discuss your experience. 

If shortlisted and invited to interview, applicants will be required to provide an additional reference. This should typically be a professional reference providing details of your ability in a caring/helping capacity, to complement your academic reference provided on the UCAS application.

We advise you review   Research - School of Social Work - About - UEA to assist you with your decision of studying Social Work.

Disclosure and Barring Service

The course you are applying for is ‘exempt’ from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore, you are required to declare any convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings that are not ‘protected’ (i.e. filtered out) as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013) on your UCAS application.

The amendments to the Exceptions Order provide that certain ‘spent’ convictions and cautions are 'protected' and are not subject to disclosure, and cannot be taken into account.  Guidance and criteria on the filtering of these cautions and convictions can be found on the Disclosure and Barring Service Website . Further information can also be found on the Nacro website  https://www.nacro.org.uk    Successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check during the first year after commencement of the course.

Where applicable, an Overseas Police Check may be required.

Overseas applicants should check to ensure they can drive in the UK for the  second year onwards of their studies.   Driving in Great Britain on a non-GB licence - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)  You may be required to take a test in the UK and you will need access to a car for placements for your second and third year. 

Social Work England is the new, specialist regulator for all social workers in England. It is an independent public protection body, setting professional, education and training standards for social workers. In its role, Social Work England also investigates and manages 'fitness to practice' cases brought against social workers.

Social work England’s professional standards are specialist to the social work profession. The standards are the threshold standards necessary for safe and effective practice. It also reflects the value and diversity of social work practice and the positive impact it has on people’s lives, families and communities. The professional standards apply to registered social workers and social work students in all roles and settings.

Social work is a regulated profession. This means that to be able to practise as a social worker in England, individuals must be registered with Social Work England. Once registered, all social workers are listed on a public register. The register is a statutory list of individual social workers who practise in England. It provides assurance that the people who practise as social workers in England have the right skills and qualifications and are capable of safe and effective practice.

You can apply to join the register when you have received official confirmation from the University that you have successfully completed your course. Further also evidenced by the University submitting the list of people who passed the course. However, it is important to know that there is no guarantee of entry onto the registration once the course has been completed, because Social Work England is the regulator and makes the final decision.

Applicants living within the UK  will be invited to attend to an interview on campus.  Overseas applicants or UK applicants living overseas will be invited to attend an interview day online. 

The  format for both is the same.  The first part of the admissions day consists of an observed group activity. The activity will be observed by members of the interview panel and  will involve a university lecturer, social work practitioner or manager and a person with lived experience and gives you an opportunity to participate and communicate in a group. The group will consist of 2 – 6 social work applicants and your group members may vary in age and experience.  However, the focus of the activity is on how you participate and communicate during the task and not your specific knowledge or experience and there is no ‘right’ answer for this activity. 

Later in the day the interview will last around 40 minutes and the interview panel is made up of a University lecturer, a Social Work practitioner or manager and a person with lived experience where possible. The interview will enable the panel to look at your personal background and circumstances, essay and group activity participation and your understanding of Social Work, your current studies and your suitability for the programme.

During the course you will participate in a 70 day and 100 day placement.  As this course includes people facing placements in social care settings, and these are mandatory component course, you will need to comply with the placement vaccination policy. Failure to meet the placement policy may prevent you from successfully completing the placement and course.

We do not encourage applicants to apply for deferred entry for the Masters programme.  We encourage students to join in the current cycle.  If your circumstances change after receiving an offer of a place, you are advised to email admissions and make an individual request in writing which will be considered by the School of Social Work. 

Our  Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.

We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.

English Foreign Language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):   

IELTS:  7.0  overall (minimum 6.5  in all components) 

To meet the requirement for Social Work England we will require an IELTS in most cases due to the high level for entry.

Test dates should be within two years of the course start date. 

Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees  

View our information for Tuition Fees.  

Scholarships and Bursaries 

We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates. 

Course Related Costs

All students will be required to complete DBS before they undertake their placement, and we recommend that students sign up for the updated service. 

Additional costs can also be expected when travelling to and from placement. Bursaries may be available through the NHS.

Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs. 

How to Apply

How to apply.

UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. 

Your application does not have to be completed all at once.  Register or sign in to UCAS  to get started.  

Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges. 

The Institution code for the  University of East Anglia  is  E14. 

View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: 

How to apply through UCAS  

Employability

After the course.

You’ll graduate with a professional qualification and an academic degree from a course accredited by Social Work England . 

You’ll have the knowledge, skills and practice experience to work with children, adults and carers in a range of settings. You’ll graduate ready for a career as a first-rate practitioner and have the foundation to build your career, potentially as a successful senior manager or distinguished academic. You’ll have the knowledge, skills and practice experience to work with children, adults and carers in a range of settings. You’ll graduate ready for a career as a first-rate practitioner and have the foundation to build your career, potentially as a successful senior manager or distinguished academic. 

Our high employability rates reflect the success of our students. 

Example of careers that you could enter include: 

• Local Authorities e.g., Norfolk and Suffolk County Council 
• Fostering and adoption agencies 
• Charity and Voluntary sector e.g., NSPCC and Age UK 
• NHS hospitals and mental health trusts e.g., NSFT 
• Advocacy services 
• Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS)  

Discover more on our Careers webpages . 

Social Work starting September 2025 for 2 years

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