Common Postgraduate concerns

So you've been considering studying a postgraduate degree, you've found a course you're interested in and you've been doing all of the necessary research into what it's like to study at PG level. If there are still a few things you're worried about, we've got the answers.

Can I afford to study a Postgraduate degree?

You can borrow up to £12,471 to help fund full-time or part-time masters. This loan covers course fees and helps with living costs so hopefully we can keep the student diet of beans on toast as a fond but nonetheless unappealing memory. There are also many other areas of funding and many different bursaries and scholarships to apply for.

When will I have the time to study?

Balancing work, life and study can be tricky, you may have a full-time job or children to think about. That’s why many of our courses have flexible study options. You could do your Master’s part-time or by online distance learning to help you fit study around your other commitments.

Where do Postgraduate students live?

There are many accommodation options available for postgraduate students. Don’t fancy moving? You’re in luck! Birmingham has three train stations and as a central midlands line, there are hundreds of routes available making it very easy to commute. However, if you wish to live in student accommodation, Birmingham City University offers safe and secure living that’s affordable for everyone. The Students' Union also provides students with a dedicated student housing service, featuring accommodation services and guidance alongside a platform to find like-minded individuals to live with. 

Postgraduate Open Days

Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about our postgraduate courses in detail, explore our campus and chat with current postgraduate students.

Can I balance a part-time job around my degree?

Once you’ve left university, got a job and perhaps a mortgage, doing a postgraduate degree can be financially challenging – which is why part-time work could be your best solution. Future employers see part-time study as evidence of good time-management skills and commitment. When considering a full-time master's, working a few shifts a week to have some extra income, really shouldn't affect your studies or your lifestyle much at all - many of our students do this.

Will it improve my career prospects?

A Master’s degree could be the opportunity that catapults you towards your dream career (whilst simultaneously boosting your bank balance). Whether it’s a step-up the career ladder or a change of career path you’re after, the skills and qualities you develop during your postgraduate degree will enhance your CV and help you stand out in a highly competitive job market.

What should you do next?

Come to a Postgraduate Open Event

Our campuses have a real buzz about them, at our Open Events, you’ll have the chance to experience it for yourself. See where you could be attending lectures, getting on with independent study and meeting fellow postgrads for a coffee.

Register for the next Open Event

Download our postgraduate guide

Our Postgraduate Guide provides details of all our postgraduate taught and research courses. It also provides information about the research environment at Birmingham City University

Download the guide

Apply for a course

So, you’re interested in applying for postgraduate study? Here’s a step-by-step guide covering all you need to know to apply. Unlike undergraduate degrees where you will apply via UCAS, you can apply straight to the University for a postgraduate degree.

Find out how to apply

Sign up to find out more

Our emails are a great way to learn more about the University and find out what it's really like to study with us.

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Get advice on your personal statement

Not sure what's required of you in a postgraduate personal statement? Don't worry, our guide has top tips, examples from real students and all the guidance you'll need.

Download the guide