Further study
One of your options as you approach graduation (or later in your career) is to consider further study either on a taught postgraduate course or as a research degree.
There are many reasons for choosing further study - love of a subject, needing a specific professional qualification for a particular career, or to pursue an academic career.
If you're considering further study, think beyond the course to make sure it will fit with your career plans.
Devoting more time to a subject you love, or exploring a new one, can be an attractive option particularly if you are feeling unsure of your long term plans. However, postgraduate study is a big investment, so there are some things you should consider to make sure it is right for you.
- Commitment - a Masters course can be intense and demanding - are you keen to study at this level?
- Cost - further study can be expensive (fees vary depending on the course). Home students may be eligible for a postgraduate loan, and you could also explore scholarships and bursaries. See funding your studies.
- Relevance - is the course appropriate for your intended career path? Will it help you focus and identify your next steps? Will it help your career progression?
Think about the points raised in Prospects: Should I do a Masters?
Postgraduate cafes at the University of York can give you the chance to chat to postgrads and find out more about what it's like to study for a Masters or PhD.
There are various study options:
- academic courses (eg taught Masters and research degrees)
- vocational courses (offering professional qualifications and/or practical experience)
- semi-vocational courses (which may improve your employment prospects)
- part-time or by distance/e-learning (so you can combine study with employment)
If you are an international student considering postgraduate study in the UK, you may find the following helpful:
- See Prospects: Postgraduate study for things to consider including timing and funding, types of course and study patterns, the research reputation of the institution and future employment prospects, and tips on applying for a Masters course.
- The University of York Students' Union provides dedicated events, representation and advice services for postgraduate students
- Careers information and resources for taught postgraduates
- If you hope to continue your studies after a Masters course, check the Vitae website for extensive information and resources to support the personal, professional and career development of doctoral researchers and research staff.
- News, policy and general information relating to the higher education sector in the UK can be found at Wonkhe
If you are passionate about your subject, you may be considering applying for a PhD, which could lead to an academic career or a career in another sector. Either way, you need to start early in researching possible avenues, universities and funding opportunities.
Considering a PhD videos
PhDs and academic careers
- Prospects: PhD study - what is involved in a PhD, writing a research proposal, studentships, funding and more
- Vitae - website for academic researchers, useful insights and career information.
Considering a PhD and applications
- University of York - Postgraduate research
- Vitae guides
- University of Warwick video: Searching for and approaching a doctoral supervisor
- Jobs.ac.uk
- Should I do a PhD?
- other career planning tools, job vacancies for post-docs, academic and non-academic posts
- FindAPhD
- PhD advice including what it’s like doing a PhD and how to apply
- PhD search
- Studying for a PhD outside the UK
- University of Bath blog on writing a CV for a PhD
- Andy Stapleton's YouTube channel - short videos on applying for a PhD, tips for your PhD, thesis advice, conferences and after your PhD
General information
Research councils, and news and policy relating to the higher education sector in the UK
- UKRI Research Councils
- HE News, @HEontap
- Wonkhe, including How REF can help PhD applicants (May 2022)
Support for underrepresented groups
- Support for underrepresented students accessing PhDs and research careers
- In2Research - year-long programme running alongside your studies including workshops, mentoring and a research programme for students from a low socioeconomic background
- ReachSci - Six to ten week online ‘mini-PhD’ for underrepresented students interested in STEM research
- UNIQ+ - Six-week research internships at the University of Oxford to provide students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds with the opportunity to experience postgraduate study. Part of the Oxford graduate access programme
- YCEDE - Yorkshire Consortium for Equity in Doctoral Education supports access to doctoral study for UK-based graduates from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.
Funding
If you are not receiving Research Council funding, or a social work bursary, Educational Psychology bursary, and are not eligible for an NHS bursary, you may be able to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral loan from Student Finance England to help with course fees and living costs.
- Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding - online resource: free for York students
- Find out more on GOV.UK about the Doctoral Loan, and Prospects: PhD loans.
Networking
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- York Profiles and Mentors - filter by further study and make contact with York graduates in your subject area
- Start networking with fellow researchers and share your research on websites like Academia.edu, ResearchGate and Mendeley