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Why York?

Be inspired by academics who are experts in their field

Whatever your motivation for study, York offers an extensive range of courses taught by pioneering staff. The combination of our excellent teaching, outstanding facilities, and training and development opportunities will help you be successful in whatever you want to achieve.

Russell Group member

one of 24 research-intensive UK universities

10th in the UK for the quality of our research

in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of the Research Excellence Framework (REF)

A global community

Over 5,000 taught postgraduate students from across the globe

#1 Friendliest place to live

Digital community Rest Less ranks York top in their friendliest places to live in the UK (2024)

Creating opportunity

Deciding where to do your Masters, or in fact whether to do one in the first place, is a big decision.

A postgraduate qualification from York can act as a springboard to a new or advanced career. Based on your undergraduate study, you might want to specialise further before entering the job market. Or perhaps you're a professional looking to take your expertise to the next level. Maybe you're looking to change career, or progress onto a PhD. Whatever your motivation is for committing to postgraduate study, at York we can help you achieve your goals.

Students exploring postgraduate study and career options at the Russell Group Postgraduate Study Roadshow.

Why York postgraduate taught courses

Global reputation

York is one of the success stories in UK higher education. Founded in 1963, we are one of just a handful of post-war universities to have appeared in the world top 100, consistently achieving a high ranking in the UK.

We're also a member of the Russell Group, a partnership of 24 leading UK universities committed to maintaining the very best research, an outstanding teaching and learning experience, and excellent links with business and the public sector.

Research-led teaching

We're one of the world's premier institutions for inspirational and groundbreaking research. We were ranked joint 10th in the UK for the quality of our research in the Times Higher Education (THE) ranking of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

This research-rich environment feeds directly into our teaching. You will work with staff at the forefront of developments in their subject area, who are committed to extending these advancements to others through their teaching.

Find out more about our latest REF results

Enhance your career

Competition for graduate-level jobs is becoming more competitive. A postgraduate degree from York will give you a competitive edge by equipping you with the critical and creative thinking skills valued in today’s global marketplace and by encouraging you to develop an international outlook.

How we can help you enhance your career prospects

"York is the first Human Rights City in the UK and the University Centre for Applied Human Rights provided me with the unique opportunity for a placement with York Human Rights City Network. I worked with other European Human Rights Cities and international policymakers and contributed to a United Nations Special Report on Poverty and Inequality in the time of Covid-19. I’m so grateful to have been part of this amazing time of online international knowledge-sharing."

Juliana (Brazil), Chevening Scholar, MA Applied Human Rights

Why York postgraduate taught courses

Supporting you

You'll have access to a range of support to help before, during and after your time at York, ensuring that you have the best possible learning experience.

This support is not limited to but includes:

  • Academic skills support - develop a range of skills to help you succeed in your studies
  • Open Door - support for students experiencing psychological or mental health difficulties
  • Disability Services - advice and support for students with a long-term health condition or disability
  • Student hub - guidance and support with practical matters
  • TalkCampus - support for mental health and wellbeing
  • Careers and Placements - opportunities that will expand your study and prepare you for your career
  • Wentworth Graduate College - the University's postgraduate-only college, providing support and community for graduates at York

Find out more about our support services

Graduate life

Join a thriving graduate community with everything you need to make the most of your time here. Our beautiful, green campus offers outstanding study spaces, university accommodation, cafes, a health centre, a nursery, sports facilities and an extensive library.

You can become part of our postgraduate-only college, Wentworth Graduate College, even if you are living off campus. As a member, you'll be included in all of the activities and events hosted by the college.

Discover more about graduate life at York

Meet us

To help you decide whether York is for you, we suggest that you come and meet us. You can join us at an online event, on campus or at a study fair near you. Our staff and students are always happy to answer any questions you may have.

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