Do you have what it takes for postgradaute study?
You need to consider whether you are prepared to undertake further study. Do you have the motivation to complete a demanding course? Do you like the idea of doing long-term research under limited supervision? Do you have the academic ability to study at a higher level?
- Are you sufficiently motivated?
If you graduated a while ago and have been working for a few years, a return to study might seem daunting. However, you might be interested in exploring the theory of the work you are doing. Perhaps a masters programme might allow you to explore a particular area of your work in more detail. Some taught courses can be very intensive, especially if they are conversion courses in an area of study that's new to you. To take on research, you must be self-motivated, able to plan your own research and experiments and able to set yourself deadlines. There are many more unfinished masters and PhDs in the world than completed ones. You need to be sure that you are capable of the self-discipline required. Ask other postgraduate students about their experiences and talk to your Careers Adviser, tutors or other People resources before you decide.
- Have you got what it takes academically?
Usually you will need a minimum of a 2.1 degree to study for a PhD or a Masters Degree by research. For a taught Masters degree programme, you should also aim for a 2:1 degree although sometimes a lower class of degree might be acceptable. Entry requirements for postgraduate diploma courses depend on the level of competition in any one year.
