is a master's degree more difficult than a bachelors

It is fair to say that postgraduate degrees tend to be more challenging than undergraduate ones. Of course, the more time and effort you put into a course, the more you are likely to get out of it. But it is also fair to say that perceptions postgraduate study might be a step too far for some people, are usually unfounded.

The entry criteria for postgraduate study differs from course to course, but usually a second-class honours degree or significant experience in a relevant field of work is required.

Hear from current student Hina about how she found the transition from bachelors to master's.

Student view Is a master's more difficult than a bachelor's degree?

studying your master's

Student blogger, Chelsea

Student blog | How to prepare for postgraduate study

"Before I started my postgraduate studies, I found it best to split my ‘to-do’ list into 2 sections; mental preparations and physical preparations. Seeing this division meant I was able to focus on key areas of improvement, and most importantly that I didn’t overwhelm myself in the process."

Student blogger, Chelsea
Chelsea PhD in Political Communication
Blog Squad student Emily, smiling in a denim jacket

Student blog | My top tips for starting your postgrad course

"There is no denying that a postgraduate course is harder than an undergraduate course. You will have to put in a lot more work than what you have previously. If you expect and prepare to put in a lot of work, you will find it easier when it comes to doing it, which will then be reflected in your results."

Blog Squad student Emily, smiling in a denim jacket
Emily MSc Psychology of Sport and Exercise

More information about studying a postgraduate degree

  1. Why study a postgraduate course?

    According to the latest Graduate Labour Market Statistics, released in 2018, postgraduates earn an average of £6,000 more than their undergraduate counterparts, while 97.7% of Leeds Beckett postgraduates are in work or further study six months after graduating.

    A big part of being a postgraduate student is making great connections and lasting relationships that could help you in the future. Whether it’s like-minded students, members of the teaching team, or guest lecturers, creating a valuable network to support you in your career can be one of the most rewarding experiences of further study and, when it comes to finding a job, help you get your foot in the door.

    On top of this, a postgraduate qualification is much more than proof that you have specialist knowledge in your field – it is also evidence of determination, persistence and intellectual ability, all of which will help to ensure you recognise and pursue all of the personal and professional growth opportunities that come your way.

  2. What are the main differences between undergraduate and postgraduate?

    The duration and levels of difficulty vary depending on the type of degree you may be after - postgraduate certificates or diplomas, for example, are shorter and less demanding than a master's course. However, all of our qualifications expand on the knowledge you have learned during your undergraduate degree and are designed to improve your career prospects.

    It is common for postgraduate students to invest more time in their studies – from reading research to conducting your own, you can expect to be more involved with the academic side of student life than the social side of it. Classes are smaller in student numbers, which means that you are able to engage more with group discussions, as well as build a closer working relationship with your tutors and benefit from their support.

    For students progressing straight onto a postgraduate course from their undergraduate degree, studying full-time tends to be the preferred option. While for students returning to university, who may now have work or family commitments, most courses are also available on a part-time basis to help make study more accessible.

  3. Perks of postgraduate study

    Many students choose a postgraduate course that follows on from their first degree, meaning you will be able to learn more about something you’re interested in. You will also get the opportunity to to dig further into a particular area of a subject you enjoy and take your knowledge to the next level. You will have the chance to explore new concepts, break new territory and contribute new knowledge to your chosen field, instead of mainly learning about and reviewing existent theories.

    In contrast, some students also decide to take their studies in a different direction and learn something completely new, broadening their knowledge and career options. It’s completely up to you. With more than 190 courses available – you’ve certainly got plenty of choice.

    If you study a master's, working on your dissertation is another aspect of postgraduate study that you can look forward to. As well as further developing your research, analysis and writing, it’s an opportunity to embrace and become an expert in a topic that interests you.

Funding your studies

Government Loans

Government loans up to £11,836 are also available for many of our master's courses and work in a very similar ways to the undergraduate loan scheme.

Alumni discount

To make it easier for our students to continue their studies, we offer a 20% on postgraduate courses for our recent graduates.

More information
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take your next steps

If you're almost ready to jump into postgraduate study but still have a few questions to help you decide, we have you covered. There's lots of ways to get in touch -  you can call or email our admissions team, chat to one of our amazing student ambassadors or stay in touch by providing us with a few contact details to get all the latest information about courses, events and student life!