Postgraduate and Further Study

POSTGRADUATE AND FURTHER STUDY 2020-2021 Top tips of the benefits of doing further study and how to apply

Your future starts here at Winchester There are many reasons why students may want to embark on a masters or a higher professional study course and there are many places in the UK or abroad to do this.

Step 1. Why embark on a postgraduate or further study course after your undergraduate degree?

There are a range of motivations for you to continue in higher education and study to a higher level. It may be to: 1

Become a specialist and to enhance your expertise and knowledge in a study area.

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Change direction and gain a qualification in a new area (e.g. Management, Law or Teaching).

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Pursue an academic career – (e.g. To become a Lecturer and/or Researcher).

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Gain a new life experience in a new place like Scotland, New Zealand or the USA.

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Broaden your knowledge and experience, wider than your degree, e.g. MA Leadership.

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Train to work in a specific career that demands a posgraduate qualification.

Step 2. Where to study There are over 167 UK Universities or colleges who mostly teach an array of postgraduate courses, however there are some that specialise in certain areas.

Step 3. Choosing a course Postgraduate courses are delivered in a variety of ways, teaching methods can vary and can be full-time, part-time or through blended or distance learning. Researching the university websites, visiting their campus and these search engines will help you to choose.

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Findamasters.com via www.findamasters.com

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Postgrad.com also boasts advice on choosing a course www postgrad.com

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Prospects via www.prospects.ac.uk/postgraduate-study

Step 4. Writing a great personal statement When you have chosen a course, look at the University’s website and their guidance on applying. You will either apply through UCAS or via a direct application form on their website. Don’t forget to explore the University of Winchester’s courses which offer 50% off for many of their MA courses for 2020 entry.

A good personal statement for postgraduate study is important and the UCAS website explains what they require.

Present your statement effectively using a clear, accurate and professional communication style, giving reasons for applying and evidence to support this.

Within your personal statement, please aim to explain: 1

Your reasons for applying, and why they should want you as a postgraduate student.

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What relevant study you have undertaken. Consider also other activities to prove your ability and commitment and enthusiasm to the course.

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Highlight that you have researched the course and the university, explain why you want to study at that institution.

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Reflect upon your chosen career path. Describe any longer-term plans and how this course links to your future goals.

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Describe further reading you have undertaken: Academic papers, news reports, blogs and discussions. This will show a real interest in the subject.

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Evidence that you are a critical thinker. Postgraduate courses require more indepth and intensive research. Refer to activities, assessments and projects that have sharpened your arguments and thought processes.

Step 5. Find out more ■

Findamasters.com via www.findamasters.com

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Further study at the University of Winchester www.winchester.ac.uk

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Postgrad.com also boasts advice on choosing a course www.postgrad.com

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Use UCAS: www.ucas.com/postgraduate

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Prospects: www.prospects.ac.uk/postgraduate-courses

Careers Service Support We’re a friendly team, dedicated to help you to prepare for your future, to explore your options, to find work or postgraduate study, develop connections and skills, or to start your own business.

CareerConnect is our Careers and Jobs Platform where you can: 1

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Book a careers appointment with your Faculty Employability Adviser to: ■

Explore different graduate career and study options

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Help you communicate the value of your achievements and skills

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Build strong online applications, profiles and statements

Search for work and set your choices to be alerted of roles that suit you: ■

Part-time and seasonal opportunities

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Graduate programmes and full-time work

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Placements and volunteering opportunities

View and book to attend our workshops and employer events during the year ■

Keep an eye on the range of events advertised on CareerConnect

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Beyond your degree – November 2020

Find information and advice on a range of different topics ■

Check out the resource and advice pages

Visit us at the Careers and Opportunities Hub Open weekdays for advice Find jobs, volunteering, placements, and part-time work Check and updating your CV Search for graduate roles and schemes and application advice Help yourself to our leaflets and booklets careers@winchester.ac.uk @_UoWcareers

@universityofwinchestercareers @_uowcareers