Selection process
Postgraduate Taught
The selection process for postgraduate taught courses is continuous from mid November, when applications first open, until August, except when courses become full and close at an earlier date. All applications are given careful consideration. Applicants can normally expect to receive a decision on their application within six to eight weeks of receipt of a complete application (including references). However, we advise applicants to check the relevant department's web page for specific information.
While the specific selection criteria vary by course there are certain general points which are equally applicable to all departments.
Selection Criteria for Postgraduate Taught
Interviews
Applicants for Master’s, Diploma and Certificate courses may be asked to attend an interview. You can find more information about a Department’s interview process, including its policy on interviewing applicants based overseas on the individual department websites.
References
All departments attach considerable importance to the report of the academic referee. This can play a major part in deciding whether an applicant is called for interview and in determining whether an offer is made. The assessment of previous academic performance is of particular value, as are indications of the strength of an applicant's motivation to study the chosen subject at higher degree level. A professional reference can also be of use in establishing an applicant’s postgraduate career development and is a requirement for certain courses which stipulate relevant experience as an entry requirement.
Personal Statement
The personal statement should outline the reasons for applying for the programme, relevant work experience and interests.
Postgraduate Research
Selection for research programmes occurs throughout the year and all applications are given careful consideration. Some programmes may have specific deadlines, for example when combined with a one year Master’s programme. Some departments and schemes will restrict applications to particular times, either due to funding requirements or because the students are all admitted at a specific time. Students should look at the Departmental websites or the websites relating to that particular scheme for detailed information.
While the specific selection criteria vary by course there are certain general points which are equally applicable to all departments.
Selection Criteria for Postgraduate Research
Interviews
All applicants must be interviewed before a formal offer of admission is made. This interview must be conducted by at least 1 and normally 2 members of staff in addition to the Director of Postgraduate Studies or the Head of Department or nominee. Interviews may be conducted as a video conference or teleconference if it is not possible for the candidate to visit the Department. Further information about an individual Department’s interview processes, including its policy and practice on interviewing applicants based overseas are detailed on the individual departmental websites.
References
All applicants are required to provide the names and contact details of two academic or professional referees. References are always taken up in writing and all departments attach considerable importance to their reports. They play a major part in deciding whether an applicant is called for interview and determining whether an offer is made. The assessment of previous academic performance is of particular value, as are indications of the strength of an applicant’s motivation to study at research level. A professional reference can also be of use in establishing an applicant’s postgraduate career development
Research Topic and Supervision
In order to assist in the processing of applications applicants should identify the research area (and if appropriate, specific project) and the Department in which they wish to work. They should also include the name of their potential supervisor if they have already been in contact with an academic member of staff and reached an agreement about a suitable topic.
Your application journey
Our application process is designed to make it as easy for you as possible, however it is important that you carefully research the course that you wish to apply for, and note any application deadlines. Please use the following links for further information regarding the application process.
