Which Masters degree should I study?

To decide which Masters degree to study, consider your current education level, existing commitments, and career ambitions. 

If you’re thinking about starting a new career in an industry that has a high demand, such as health administration; business administration; or computer sciences, then a Masters degree could help. 

Our postgraduate degrees offer the opportunity to specialise in a subject, enhancing your career prospects and giving you the best chance of success in your job search. 

How will studying a Masters degree in the UK benefit me?

Degrees from UK universities are respected and accepted around the world thanks to the reputation of high-quality education.  

By studying at Ulster University’s Branch Campuses, you will: 

• Benefit from access to a global network of alumni 
• Improve your English language skills whilst living in the UK 
• Gain practical knowledge and skills with our career-focused curriculum 
• Experience life in the UK and all the different cultures and places it has to offer 

Why should I study at Ulster University Branch Campuses?

At Ulster University we’re renowned for our quality of teaching; we are amongst the top 25 universities for teaching quality and student experience (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023). 

Our courses are developed with direct input from employers and professional bodies, ensuring that you graduate ‘work ready’ with skills and knowledge that employers are actively looking for. 

With regular one-to-one time, our branch campuses provide a more personal study environment. You’ll be studying in one of the UK’s fastest-growing business communities, providing you with more potential networking opportunities than anywhere else in the UK. 

When can I start a postgraduate degree and how long does it take?

We offer flexibility at our branch campuses with a choice of intakes throughout the year, giving you more control over your studies. Start dates for our range of undergraduate degrees, pre-Masters, and Masters degrees are available in September, January, and May. 

Course lengths vary depending on the level of study and course-specific programme. Typically, as a full-time student, undergraduate degrees will take three years to complete and a Masters degree takes one year. 

For more information about course duration and available start dates, head to our courses page and select the course(s) you are interested in. 

What will my employment prospects be like after I graduate?

Many of our courses offer the chance to gain professional qualifications or accreditation in addition to the degree itself (depending on module selection).  

This extra level of recognition can be invaluable when applying for jobs after graduation and many of our alumni have gone on to have successful careers in their industry.  

Read some of their stories on our blog. 

What is the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate study?

Undergraduate refers to students studying for a ‘first-level’ degree, such as a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA), i.e. they are studying ‘before’ becoming a graduate.

Postgraduate refers to the level of study a student enters once they have gained a Bachelors degree, such as a Masters (MSc, MA); postgraduate certificate (PGCert); or postgraduate diploma (PGDip), i.e. ‘after’ graduating. 

When compared with undergraduate degrees, a Masters degree is usually: 

• More focused on a single area of study, providing more specialist knowledge within a particular subject area 
• Taught in smaller class sizes 
• More flexible when it comes to the variety of study options and intake dates 
• A more advanced, fast-paced, and intensive study environment 

Choosing to study a postgraduate degree is a big commitment, requiring a large amount of time and effort. However, a postgraduate qualification could help you progress further on your chosen career path, develop your understanding of your subject area, and build upon your existing experience with specialist knowledge and skills. 

Learn more about our available postgraduate degrees and study options. 

I’ve been out of formal education for a while. What should I know about being a mature student at university?

At Ulster University Branch Campuses, we appreciate that many students have existing commitments such as family obligations, caring responsibilities or a full-time job to consider. Whether you want to progress directly from undergraduate studies to a Masters degree or wish to re-enter the higher education system after a long period of absence, we want to support you on your journey with us. 

As a student, you’ll have access to a wide range of student support services. We encourage all students to take advantage of this support if they ever feel they need help or advice, be it personally or academically. 

The support we offer includes, but is not limited to: 

• Support for students with a disability 
• Counselling
• Mental health support and services, including signposting to local, off-campus services 
• Advice and guidance on issues in your personal life 
• Careers advice and guidance, including CV assistance 
• Financial advice, including access to hardship funds for eligible students 
• Crisis support 

You can also apply for a Pre-Masters programme, which will provide you with extra academic support to help you reach the required standard to study a Masters degree. 

What is a Pre-Masters programme?

If you don’t quite meet the eligibility criteria or need extra academic support before committing to a Masters degree, then our Pre-Masters options could be ideal for you. 

Learn more about our Pre-Masters programmes. 

How will I be taught at Ulster University Branch Campuses and where will I study?

Our courses are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, and tutorials delivered at our branch campuses: 

• Lectures are typically formal teaching sessions held with a large group of students 
• Seminars are held in smaller groups where discussion around specific topics is encouraged 
• Tutorials are smaller still, with groups of students meeting with tutors to discuss their work and projects, to raise points of interest, or discuss areas they’re having difficulty with 
• All students have access to the following student services at our campuses:
  • Careers and Employability Services 
  • Student Welfare Service 
  • The ACE Team – The Academic Community of Excellence Team, offering academic support and guidance 

Ulster University Birmingham Campus 

Located in the city centre, our Birmingham campus offers high-quality and modern teaching facilities with highly experienced teaching staff, ensuring your learning is geared towards your needs and career aspirations. 

Our Birmingham campus includes: 

• Spacious classrooms containing interactive learning technology 
• Computer and IT research areas 
• Extensive resources available in our welcoming library
• On-site break rooms with tea and coffee-making facilities 

Ulster University London Campus 

Located in the heart of the UK’s capital city, our London campus offers a great environment in which to study and socialise, including the QA Student Hub, which is just a short walk from the main campus. 

The London campus includes: 

• Student computer labs, printing services, and lockers 
• Social spaces and breakout rooms 
• Laptop rental services 
• A library 

Ulster University Manchester Campus 

Our Manchester campus is in the city centre, offering students a comfortable, modern learning environment with high-quality facilities. Be part of a city voted as a top 20 best student city (Study Crowd 2023) and benefit from studying in a bustling business community with easy access to public transport, local shops, restaurants, museums and much more.

Our Manchester campus includes:

• Breakout areas
• Computer labs and printing services
• Laptop renting service
• A library

When will I receive my course timetable?

Timetables will be provided following enrolment. However, you can view sample timetables to help give you an idea of your potential schedule and what to expect ahead of your course along with other useful pre-arrival information. 

Is there any financial support available for students, such as scholarships and bursaries? 

There are a number of scholarships available for eligible international students, which you’ll be able to learn more about from your regional representative. 

How much does an undergraduate or Masters degree cost in the UK? What are the payment deadlines? 

To learn more about the tuition fees for your chosen degree programme, you’ll find all the information you need on the specific course page, including payment deadlines and any additional costs. Simply select the degree you’d like to study from our courses page. 

How do I pay for my degree? 

At Ulster University Branch Campuses, we offer several ways to pay. 

You can make quick and secure international payments online using Flywire, pay with credit or debit card, or pay in person at the Finance Office at either campus. 

What kind of financial help is available to students?

If you are a self-funded student and have a question about payments or need some support particularly with any difficulty making payments our Finance Team can offer you assistance. Please contact our Finance Team for support as soon as possible. 

What type of visa do I need to apply for to come to the UK to study? 

You need a Student Route Visa to be able to come to the UK and study at Ulster University Branch Campuses. You’ll be unable to use any other type of visa to study with us.

You can find more information about the Student Visa on the UK government’s website. 

How do I apply for a Student Route Visa?

To be eligible to apply for a Student Route Visa, you’ll first need to secure an unconditional offer from Ulster University Branch Campuses and then request a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). 

Here is a brief overview of the process: 

1. Pay your deposit to secure your place at Ulster University Branch Campuses and receive your unconditional offer 
2. Request a CAS 
3. Attend and pass your Pre-CAS interview (conducted between yourself and a compliance officer) 
4. Submit your TB certificate, which must be valid for a minimum of two months after enrolment onto the course (Please note: some countries are TB-exempt and therefore do not need to submit a valid TB certificate) 
5. Submit your bank documents, which must show enough funds to cover any outstanding course fees and your living expenses for the duration of your studies. Funds must also have been held in your account for a minimum of 28 consecutive days to prove maturity – your visa will be refused if funds have not matured. 

Once your documents have been received and passed the necessary checks, your Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies will be issued.  

Your CAS will contain a reference number that you must enter on your visa application; this number will only be issued after you successfully complete your Pre-CAS interview and your documentation has been approved.  

If, for any reason, there is a delay in your CAS or Student Route Visa being issued, you could request an extension. However, it is important to note that any extension will be granted at the discretion of the university. 

You can also apply to defer your application to the next available intake or request a refund of any fees you have paid to date for your course. 

How long am I able to stay in the UK following graduation?

International students that wish to stay in the UK following graduation, because they have found a job or would like to look for work, can apply for a Graduate Visa. If you have successfully completed an undergraduate or Masters degree, you can apply to extend your stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate. 

You cannot extend your stay any further than this with a Graduate Visa, but you could apply to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if you find an eligible job with an employer that is willing to sponsor you.  

Can I work whilst I’m studying at university in the UK? 

You might be able to work up to 20 hours a week during term time whilst studying at Ulster University Branch Campuses. 

Our Student Futures and Careers Team will be able to offer advice on working during your time with us. They can also help with finding a part-time job during your studies or finding a job after graduation. 

What are the entry requirements for studying at Ulster University Branch Campuses? 

All academic and English language entry requirements for specific degrees can be found on the individual course pages. 

To view the entry requirements for your chosen course, simply select it from our courses page. 

Or you can view the general entry requirements for our Pre-Sessional, Undergraduate, Pre-Masters, and Postgraduate programmes. 

When can I apply for a degree at Ulster Branch Campuses?

You can enquire about any of our programmes at any time by filling in the enquiry form on the course page. 

You can find application deadlines for specific courses on each individual course page, or you can view a list of dates and deadlines for all our degree programs. 

Learn how to apply for degree programmes at Ulster University Branch Campuses. 

What documents do I need to provide with my degree application?

To help us process your application as quickly as possible, you’ll need to send us copies of the following documents: 

• Passport – your personal details page 
• Personal statement (please ensure this is more than 250 words) 
• Any previous qualifications you hold 
• English language qualifications 
• CV 
• Previous UK visas, visa refusals, or Home Office communications 

Please note that not all the above will apply to you or the course you are applying for. The documents you will be required to provide will be outlined during the application process. 

If you are unsure about which documents you need to supply, please get in touch and our team will be more than happy to help you with your application. 

Can I apply for more than one degree?

You can apply for multiple degrees if you are unsure of which degree you’d like to study at Ulster University Branch Campuses. However, you’ll need to submit a separate personal statement for each course you’re applying for explaining why you’d like to study that course. 

Once you have decided which single course you’d like to study, it would be appreciated if you submitted a request to withdraw your applications for any courses you no longer wish to proceed with. Don’t worry if you don’t withdraw your applications though, as incomplete applications will automatically be withdrawn after the deadlines pass. You will receive notification of this via email. 

I’ve applied to study at Ulster University Branch Campuses, but I want to defer my entry. What do I do?

First of all, don’t worry; we understand that circumstances and commitments often change and that this can affect your plans. 

All you need to do to defer your enrolment is to fill out a deferral form. 

For UK students, please contact us and we will send you the form to complete. 

For international students, please contact your regional team, who will be able to advise you on the process and help you through it. 

When will I know if my application is successful?

We will process your application as quickly as possible and, if successful, your conditional or unconditional offer will be emailed to you or, if applicable, your educational representative.  

You can also check your online application portal for any updates and important information. 

What if my application is unsuccessful? What can I do?

If, for any reason, we are unable to proceed with your application for your desired degree, our Admissions Team will email you. 

To give yourself the best chance of success, please ensure you meet the entry requirements. 

You can reach out to our Admissions Team or your relevant recruitment team, who can review the decision and offer advice as to why your application was unsuccessful along with any appeal processes. 

What support is available for students on and off campus?

At Ulster University Branch Campuses, we want our students to succeed, which is why we offer a variety of support services. 

Find out more about the student support services we provide, including academic, career, financial, and wellbeing support. 

Take a look at our Student Hub for more information about:   

• Student life 
• Available support for students 
• Useful information to learn about before you begin your studies 
• Enrolment information 
• Student guides 
• Information about freshers week 
• Equipment checklists 
• Student discounts 

Are there societies I can join or activities I can take part in as a student?

As a student at Ulster University Branch Campuses, you’ll automatically become a member of the Student Activities Association (SAA).  

As a member of the SAA, you’ll have access to a variety of student-centred events organised across campus as well as SAA Ambassadors – volunteer students who help run events and engage and assist the student population. The SAA is led by the Student Relations and Events team, who is also your main point of contact for all events and societies. 

Find out more about the Student Activities Association. 

Will I have access to careers and employment support as a student at Ulster University Branch Campuses?

You’ll have access to the Student Futures and Careers team, which is run by our partner, QAHE, and provides essential support to help students make the most of their experiences, develop their skills, manage their careers, and achieve their goals. 

The QAHE Student Futures and Careers team can support you throughout your studies and help you prepare for your future with: 

• 1:1 appointments with a careers advisor 
• LinkedIn profile reviews to help maximise your opportunities 
• CV, cover letter, and mock interview support 
• Internship and work placement service 
• Careers and employability workshops 
• Employer-led events 
• Work experience and job opportunity notifications 
• Unlimited access to an online careers portal, QA Higher Education Careers Online, full of helpful resources 

You’ll also have the opportunity to attend monthly in-person and online workshops to help with your future career and employment prospects, as well as a monthly newsletter signposting you to available job opportunities, workshops, and events in the local area. 

How much does student accommodation cost and how can I find student accommodation?

The cost of accommodation for students looking to study at our branch campuses can vary greatly, depending on the type of housing, location, facilities, and more. 

You can find more information relating to student accommodation here that you may find helpful. 

How do I apply and pay for my accommodation?

With lots of different types of accommodation available at our branch campuses, it is important that you choose the right place for you and your needs. QA Higher Education’s accommodation team can assist you in finding suitable accommodation whilst you study with us. 

For international students especially, it is important to remember that finding and securing accommodation is best done sooner rather than later as the closer to enrolment you leave it, the fewer housing options you’ll have access to. 

Learn more about the QAHE Accommodation Team and contact them for help finding student accommodation.