How to apply
Unlike undergraduate degrees where you will apply via UCAS, you can apply straight to the university for most postgraduate degrees - almost like a job application. We'll run you through the application process so that you know what to expect.
When do I apply?
If you're applying for a September start, we recommend you apply by 17 July if you're an international student or 31 July if you're a UK student.
If you're applying for a January start, we recommend you apply by 4 December if you're an international student or 18 December if you're a UK student.
Some courses – including MSc Social Work, MSc Dietetics, MSc Speech and Language Therapy and MSc Physiotherapy – do have an application deadline. Details can be found on the course page where this is the case.
Whatever course you’re applying for, don’t leave it until the last minute, as many popular courses will fill up ahead of time.
How do I apply?
Applying for a postgraduate course is straight -forward as you can apply to us directly. If you're applying for a Teacher Training course, Conservatoire course or a Law course, please read our FAQs to find out more about how to apply through external portals.
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1. Find your course
Explore our courses and find the right one for you. Be sure to double-check you meet the entry requirements for the course, which you can find on each course page. You can begin your application directly from the course page by clicking the 'apply online' button.
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2. Prepare your documents
Make sure you have everything ready before you start your application. You'll need:
- Scanned copies of your prior education certificates (if you have not yet graduated your referee will need to provide your predicted grade)
- Two references (one academic and one employer)Don’t panic if you haven’t completed your undergraduate degree yet, you can still submit an application – a conditional offer could be given, based on you achieving the required result.
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3. Write your personal statement
Your statement is going to shine a light on your personal experience, academic success, personal skills and any other factors that will support your application for further studies. Our guide has top tips, examples from real students and all the guidance you'll need.
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4. Hit submit
Once you’re happy with your application and provided the necessary information, you'll be prompted to digitally sign an application declaration and then you just hit submit! You will get an email from us confirming that we have received your application.
What happens next?
Once you’ve submitted your application it is sent through to our admissions team and they will then contact the relevant tutor to review your application. Some courses will require an interview/audition or other assessment method before a decision can be made and our admissions team will be in touch if you are successful in this next stage.
Once all of this is complete the admissions team will process your offer. You will receive your offer via email which can then also be seen through the MySRS portal. Once you have received this you will have the option to accept your offer in the MySRS portal and then we’ll be able to guide you through the next steps.
Are you a current BCU undergraduate student?
Our fast track application means you can apply for postgraduate study in just a few minutes. We're here to walk you through the simple application process.
How to prepare for postgraduate study
Whether you’re getting back into education after a break or considering studying part-time for your postgraduate degree, we have all the advice you need.
Everything you need to know about fees and funding
There are multiple ways to fund a postgraduate degree, including government loans, scholarships and external funding.
Postgraduate financeTips for getting back into education after a break
Get advice from students who have returned to education after taking a break on managing your finances, finding a work-life balance and more.
Returning to educationShould you study a Master's part-time?
A lot of Master’s students choose to study part-time for many reasons, including work or family commitments. There are a few key things to consider before you choose the part-time route.
Pros and cons of part-time studyWhat’s different about postgraduate study?
If you’re thinking about studying a Master’s, it’s worth knowing what’s expected of you at postgraduate level. Master’s student, Lucy, shared the key differences between undergraduate and postgraduate study.
How is postgraduate study different?How to work alongside your postgraduate degree
Working alongside your course is a balancing act, but it can be done if you’re determined and focused. We’ve put together your options for working and studying at the same time.
Working and studyingSocialising as a postgraduate student
At university, there are lots of opportunities to socialise on and off campus and get involved in the postgraduate community. We’ve got five ways to make new connections as a Master's student.
Postgraduate community at BCUOpen Days
BCU Open Days are the perfect opportunity to discover just what we have to offer. Talk to the experts who will be teaching you, chat with current students and tour our state-of-the-art facilities. If you can't wait for one of our Open Day, experience a day in the life as a BCU student through immersive 360-degree tours of our campuses.
Postgraduate personal statement guide