Why study a Master's degree?
A master's degree is about more than gaining an additional qualification, it's an opportunity to develop specialist knowledge, build valuable professional connections, enhance your career prospects, and grow in confidence. Explore the benefits of postgraduate study and discover how it could help you shape your future.
Benefits of completing a Master's
A route to senior roles
A larger percentage of graduates with a postgraduate qualification are in high-skilled roles (such as managerial or professional occupations) compared to those with an undergraduate degree (Graduate labour market statistics 2024).
Higher starting salaries
The UK Government’s Graduate labour market statistics (2024), show the median real-terms salary for postgraduates was around £3,000 higher than for graduates with an undergraduate degree. Although outcomes vary, it is evident that a Master's can play an important role in improving long-term career prospects.
Build your professional network
Expand your professional network by connecting with expert academics, industry professionals, and likeminded peers whilst you study. The relationships you build can also lead to mentorship, collaboration, and valuable career opportunities after you graduate.
Specialise in your field and skillset
A Master's is great way to build your specialist expertise in your field and deepen your understanding of a particular subject area. The learning structure of a postgraduate taught course also helps to build key skills valued by employers including project management and critical thinking.
Do what you love
A postgraduate qualification is a great way to explore a subject you are passionate about in real depth.
Get bespoke support when undertaking a Master's
Careers support and development
A postgraduate qualification will allow you to stand out from the crowd with specialist knowledge, expertise and skills or even allow you to change career direction entirely.
Flexible study options
Whether you're considering a taught Master's, a research degree or another postgraduate qualification, there are a range of study options to suit your ambitions and circumstances.
10% alumni discount
Our Alumni Discount is a 10% reduction off the annual tuition fees on full-time and part-time taught Master’s level degrees only. This discount applies to home students on eligible courses.
98% Postgraduate students in work or further study within 15 months of graduating
* HESA Graduate Outcomes (2022/23, UK domiciled)
2nd in the country for National Teaching Fellowships, marking the best UK lecturers
* National Teaching Fellowships 2025 data
Making your decision on whether to pursue a Master's
Choosing the right Master's degree is an important decision, and it's natural to have questions along the way. Explore the information below to get answers to common queries and explore your options.
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What is the difference between postgraduate taught course e.g. a Master's and postgraduate research degree e.g. a PhD?
Postgraduate taught courses are similar to undergraduate degrees, involving regular classes and structured modules. Assessment is typically based on a combination of coursework, examinations, and, in some cases, a dissertation. Successful completion leads to a Master's degree (MA/MSc), Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), or Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert).
Research degrees differ in that they focus on conducting original academic research. Students work independently under the guidance of a supervisor and are required to produce a substantial thesis presenting their research findings. These programmes usually take several years to complete and lead to qualifications such as a Master's by Research (MA/MSc by Research) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Why choose Huddersfield?
Postgraduate student experience
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Award-winning university
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Sustainable focus
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Facilities designed for our students
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Postgraduate student blogs
Student-led reflections and experiences, giving a genuine and student-centred insight into what it’s like to study and learn at postgraduate level.
Postgraduate study articles
Helpful articles written by students and staff, answering common questions and offering guidance on applying, funding, support services and life as a postgraduate student.
Further useful information to guide you
Discover postgraduate taught
Explore the information about postgraduate taught including what a postgraduate taught course is and the courses and study options available.
Discover postgraduate research
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Funding your Master's degree
Whether you are able to fund your studies will play a key part in your decision to pursue a Master's degree. Find the information on our fees and funding support options.