Everything about What is a Master’s Degree
In the United Kingdom, a Master’s Degree is considered to be a level 7, postgraduate qualification between a Bachelor’s Degree and a Doctoral Degree. This study leading to obtain it involves the series of modules, writing of a dissertation and research projects.
Having a postgraduate qualification can immensely improve your career growth. Master’s Degree programmes involve high cost and are quite academically demanding, though. It is advisable to research your options thoroughly before choosing a Master’s Degree course. They are available as a full-time as well as a part-time courses. Usually, a full-time course involves one or two years of studies, whereas a part-time program may last even up to four years.
What is a Master’s Degree Compared to Bachelor’s Degree?
Generally, a graduate degree, such as Bachelor’s, does not involve research-based studies, whereas a Master’s Degree can either be a taught or research-based one. An undergraduate degree refers to the first stage of degree that includes the base level of skills, whereas the ‘postgraduate’ study refers to the second level of qualification. If you require a Master’s Degree, then it is a must to have a certified bachelor’s degree.
Master’s Degree programmes focus on one particular subject that gives the student a great amount of specialised knowledge. They are more flexible in terms of modules and study options, but costlier when compared to the PGCerts, PGDips and PhDs. Classes are usually smaller, which is an additional benefit to those, who prefer peace and quiet and more individual approach while studying.
The PGDips and PGCerts are the qualifications at the same level as a Master’s Degree, but they do not require students to write a dissertation or perform any research-based studies.
Different types of Master’s Degree
Master’s degree is not something to be done with the study-based materials. It is a study that is completely based upon the taught programme or else on research.
Taught Master’s Degrees are usually programmes of 12 months full-time study that is similar to a Bachelor’s Degree. Throughout the taught Master’s programme, the students’ knowledge is delivered and assessed through a series of taught modules and may also include independent research in the specialised subject area. Taught master programme in Master’s Degree involves continuous assessment, examinations and a final assessment. All this is based on the submission of a dissertation, usually between 10,000-20,000 words.
The eligibility to join the Master’s Degree course with taught programme varies from college to college, including variations in application deadlines. Apart from studies, the taught Master’s Degree course also involves work assessed through exams, essays, dissertations and group projects. Students work independently with the support of their tutors.
Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc) are the two most popular taught options, however Master’s Degrees are also awarded in other areas, such as Masters of Laws (LLM), Masters of Architecture (MArch), Master of Education (MEd), etc.
A research-based Master’s Degree is is recommended to those who prefer the idea of intensive research and a more independent approach to study. Some of the research-based courses involve a complete research study without the constraints of attending timetabled lectures, The programme lasts for about 18-36 months full-time and 36-48 months part-time, and the qualifications are gained after a thorough and critical investigation and evaluation of an approved topic.
Master of Arts (MA) course is a degree awarded programme for those who are studying the fields in social sciences, art and humanities, consulting and management and business. The Master of Science (MSc) usually covers fields such as science, technology, engineering and mathematics programmes. Other studies include social sciences and business, social work, consulting and management courses, etc. These programmes focus entirely on academic reading and research.
Master of Business Administration is an advanced course, preferred mainly by those who want to pursue their career in business, by either managing their own aiming at obtaining a higher position in someone else’s company. This course helps you increase your professional reputation, salary and your network.
A Master of Research is a 1-year, full-time course, which involves research and focuses entirely on independent studies. Apart from providing a Master’s Degree, these courses train students in the field of research, preparing for a profession or PhD study.
How Does the Grades Works in Master’s Degree
To earn a Master’s Degree, it is essential to pass all the exams with either pass, merit or distinction grade. For the majority of taught Master’s courses, the following scale applies:
- Pass = 50% and above
- Merit = 60% and above
- Distinction = 70% and above
This may vary in some institutions as they may grant the passing grade at 40% or merit at 50%, etc.
Who to Approach for More Guidance for Master’s Degree?
You can get further guidance from the universities, current students, your career service providers etc.
- Career and Employability Service can help you decide which course is best for you and assist with your application.
- Current Students can give you an idea about the course. They can tell you about the work involved in the course and may recommend books and other resources.
- Postgraduate Study Fairs are a chance to explore the universities and their offers.
- University Tutors can explain to you about the course that is related to your desired career and goal.