Types of study
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Search for undergraduate, postgraduate, research degrees and apprenticeships.
What works for you?
Are you unsure which is the right postgraduate qualification for you? There are a variety of different postgraduate degrees available. Whether you’re looking to continue from undergraduate level, or learn new skills and build up an impressive range of knowledge and abilities, we have a variety of options to suit you.
Browse the options below to find out more.
Postgraduate taught (Master's Degree)
On a postgraduate taught degree (often referred to as a Master’s), you will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, and practical work. Studying at Master’s level will involve advanced specialist study in your chosen subject or profession and usually contains a taught element in addition to a supervised dissertation or research project.
Most of our postgraduate taught courses can be studied full-time or part-time and some are offered as distance learning to enable you to fit your studies around your lifestyle.
Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma
A postgraduate certificate (PGCert) or diploma (PGDip) will equip you with master's level knowledge without having to submit a dissertation. They are ideal for you if you want to expand your knowledge to improve your career prospects or top up existing qualifications. Our PGCert and PGDip courses are more vocational in nature, with placements or on the job learning in fields such as education, health care and business.
Browse our postgraduate taught courses >>
Master's degrees by research
If you want to pursue a career that requires an understanding of research, then this could be the degree for you. It gives you the opportunity to experience research within one-year full time, (or two years part time) and present a thesis, so it is the perfect springboard for a PhD programme.
The following Master's degrees by research are available:
- Master of Arts (MA) by Research
- Master of Science (MSc) by Research
- Master of Enterprise (MEnt)
Doctorates
A doctorate is one of the highest degrees awarded by universities in the UK. Usually lasting between three and four years, although taught elements may be included, you spend most time undertaking independent research. You will be required to submit a thesis consisting of evidence of originality and independent critical ability, considered suitable for publication.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
A PhD is awarded on the successful completion of a programme of supervised research. It is assessed via a final thesis (of up to 100,000 words) and a viva voce (an oral examination).
Professional Doctorates
Professional Doctorates are specifically designed to meet the needs of practising professionals. Although they involve taught elements, a major part of the course involves undertaking a thesis in a similar way to the more traditional PhD.
The following professional doctorates are available:
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
- Doctor of Public Administration (DPA)
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Enterprise (EntD)
On each programme you will be assigned a minimum of one main supervisor, who will be engaged in research in the relevant disciplines, to ensure that the direction and monitoring of your progress is informed by up-to-date subject knowledge and research developments.
Teacher Training
If you’re nearing graduation, already working in education, or looking to start a new career, we offer a range of postgraduate options so you can get the qualification you need to teach in the sector you’re interested in. If you’re looking to become a primary or secondary school teacher, then you can choose from a few Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) options all of which lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). There are also routes for those looking to go into post 16 education (Lifelong Learning).
University-led training
One-year full-time courses that are taught on campus, give you the opportunity to work with other trainees and spend a significant amount of time on placement.
School-led training
We work in partnership with several local schools giving you the chance to learn on the job as part of the teaching team from day one. Initiatives include School Direct, School Direct (salaried) and SKITT (School-centred initial teacher training).
What’s the best postgraduate option for me?
Postgraduate taught may be better for you if: |
Postgraduate research may be better for you if: |
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You prefer more structured study which is assessed through regular assignments and exams. |
You prefer a more independent approach to study, concentrating on a thesis or research portfolio of practical work. |
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You prefer teaching delivered through lectures, seminars, and independent study. |
You would like to project manage your research throughout your whole degree. |
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You need a Master’s qualification for a specific industry or career. |
You want to explore a research topic using an in-depth and intensive approach to make an original contribution to knowledge. |
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You want a mix of coursework, exams, and a shorter dissertation. |
You prefer little or no taught elements or exams. |
How to apply
Straightforward guidance and information on how to apply for your postgraduate course of interest at Huddersfield.
Visit us
Our Postgraduate Open Days are an opportunity for you to learn more about this advanced level of study and the options and support available to you.
Order a prospectus
Our Postgraduate and Research Prospectus is your go-to guide for exploring the ins and outs of postgraduate life at Huddersfield.