Where to look for Postgraduate Information

Advice for prospective PhD and Masters Students

So you’re thinking about postgraduate study and wondering where to start and how to become a masters or PhD student? Are you wondering where to look for postgraduate information? What kind of information is out there to help you?

You might be looking to up-skill as part of your job, so returning to postgraduate study will help you improve your job prospects. Put yourself in a strong position of promotion. Perhaps you are in your last year of study and preparing for your final exams. You need to consider what happens once you graduate. Maybe university was a long time in the past and you are unsure where to turn to for advice?

Where can I find Masters student information?

When you are just starting to look, there can be so much information out there. It’s hard to know where to start, so here are a few ideas.

You want to found out the full range of what’s out there in your subject area. It's a good idea to start with one of the postgraduate listing websites.

There are so many masters courses out there you’ll need something to help you. See the range of what’s available, but also some way to narrow down your choices. There are a number of websites that list masters courses, but some have more information than others. Masters Compare lets you compare the courses you are interested in. You can filter by subject so you find the course that’s right for you.

Listing websites also may have a wealth of additional information, including profiles of the University. Profiles explain about their students and information about open days. These are really useful because you can take part in a webinar at a time that suits you.  They all have great videos and social media content produced by the University.

What is a PhD student and how can I find information?

A PhD student is a mature student who has already finished a postgraduate degree. They are looking to take their education to the next level.

There are also websites for you if you are looking for a PhD which list PhD projects, funding, or both. Look on Postgraduate Studentships for funding either a PhD or Masters, Universities and charities list their opportunities with us.

If there is a website linked to your academic area or job these list all the relevant courses and opportunities. These will include reviews by experts and past students who have completed the course. If you are not sure where to look on their website, start with links like ‘find out about a department’

Are there any postgraduate events I can attend?

Events happen around the country, usually from November and around Easter. If you live near a big city you may also find a Postgraduate Fair somewhere near you. The biggest Fairs are in Manchester (in November) and in London (in October and January) but there are others. They include stands from a wide range of Universities from across the UK, and further afield.

If you are looking for PhD Funding, apply to attend our annual PhD Funding Fair. You can meet leading UK universities, chat to PhD students and find out what it’s like to study a PhD.

Making a shortlist of courses or opportunities

With your courses shortlist and the University details visit their websites and open days. Prepare yourself by thinking about what matters to you about postgraduate study.

Next Steps

Looking for a Masters? Search and compare Masters courses now on MastersCompare

Looking for PhD Funding? Meet leading UK Universities with funding on offer at our annual PhD Funding Fair in December.

Receive Email Updates of the latest PhD and Masters opportunities on Postgraduate Studentships and Masters Compare.

Tell us about your search for postgraduate study or ask us a question on our Think Postgrad Facebook page.