Why do a Masters degree?

student in catalyst picking books from the shelves

There are many reasons to study for a Masters degree. Many students hope to improve their employability by completing their Masters. Others may have a passion for the subject or want to achieve a PhD. Some may know their dream career has specific requirements to achieve.

This helpful guide will cover a range of benefits to studying a Masters degree, answering frequently asked questions to keep you informed.

What is a Masters degree?

A Masters degree is awarded to individuals who have completed either one or two years of additional study following a bachelor’s degree.

Why should I do a Masters degree?

There are lots of reasons you should do a Masters degree, we have listed a few below:

Expand your knowledge

A Masters degree allows you to specialise in an area you really enjoy and learn more about it. Unlike an undergraduate degree, you can delve deeper into one area of a subject. Throughout your learning, you will become an expert in your industry.

At Edge Hill University we have over 100 postgraduate courses to choose from and are rated in the UK’s top 10 for postgraduate study (Whatuni Student Choice Awards, 2022). No matter what area you are interested in, you can find the course for you.

Boost your employability

A Masters degree can help you stand out from the competition, focus your skills towards leadership positions, and increase your chances of securing your dream job. Over 95% of Edge Hill’s taught Masters graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes, 2019/20).

So, when you’ve graduated and started out in the world of work, you’ll be setting the standard and leading the way.

Master your real-world experience

From expert tutors who can share their experiences to starting your own piece of research, a Masters degree helps you to surround yourself with the real world. Don’t just listen to stories. Be a part of them. Dive into your subject area and get involved.

Edge Hill’s taught Masters degrees all include the submission of a dissertation. Pick your area of interest and start exploring. The best way to learn is to get stuck in.

Increase your earning potential

Masters qualifications are highly valued by employers and a great way to demonstrate your capabilities and invest in your future.

Studies show that average salaries after a Masters degree tend to be higher, with graduates earning £5,500 more each year than first degree holders, five years after graduation.

Find likeminded people

As you delve deeper into a specific topic, find like-minded people who share the same interests as you. Make deeper connections and network with your fellow students and tutors.

Our tutors have been voted in the UK’s top 15 for lecturers and teaching quality (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022). Many are also working in their field while teaching. This combination gives you a first-class standard of learning. Learn from people who are in the industry you want to be in.

Develop your skills

Studying for a Masters degree helps you to improve your own personal development. Take charge of self-lead learning. Perfect your time management. Improve your self-motivation and ability to study independently.

While you focus on you, we will also focus on you. We’ll support you to reach your potential and will always be there whenever you need support along the way. Edge Hill University was in the UK’s top 10 for student support in 2022. From financial advice to academic support, access workshops or schedule a meeting to improve your abilities.

Change your career path

Have you completed your undergraduate but changed your mind about your career goal? Or have you become comfortable in your role and want a new challenge? A Masters degree can support you in the change.

At Edge Hill, the majority of our courses only require a specific level of undergraduate degree rather than a specific subject. Select your desired course then click entry criteria to see if you are eligible to apply.

Be part of the best team

Study at Edge Hill and we’ll give you the skills and opportunities you need to thrive. We’ve created an inspirational and diverse environment. A place for you to learn, live and belong where we’ll support you and your ambitions.

Our recent success as Modern University of the Year in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 highlights our exceptional culture and campus. The award is rooted in our outstanding student experience, future-focused courses and quality teaching.

A step towards a research degree

Want to achieve a PhD? Many programmes include written assessments and secondary research, so a Masters degree is a step in the right direction.

Edge Hill can offer you a place to study from undergraduate to PhD. To find out more about the process to Doctor of Philosophy, read our research degrees page.

New town, new experiences

Starting your Masters degree is the perfect opportunity to have a fresh start. Go to a new town, open up new opportunities and network with a new crowd.

So if you’re going to try somewhere new, why Edge Hill? Edge Hill’s location is the perfect place to study for your Masters degree. Settle into a small town with big opportunities. Ormskirk is a stone’s throw from Liverpool and Manchester, with transportation connections right across the country. Keep connected and be ready for new adventures. You’ll find that the North West is one of the cheapest places to live and travel around whilst you study too.

Our campus has been voted one of the UK’s best green spaces for 11 successive years. Complete your Masters degree on an award-winning 160-acre campus with facilities voted 2nd best in the UK (WhatUni Student Choice Awards, 2022).

Ready to apply?

No matter why you are completing your Masters, it needs to be right for you. Take time to decide before embarking on your postgraduate studies. Speak to career advisers at university, as well as with your family and friends. Ask yourself some of the following questions:

Are you passionate enough about the subject?
Are you ready for another year (or more) at University?
Can you afford to study for your postgraduate?

group of male and female students walking together through Ormskirk

If you are interested in joining a postgraduate taught degree at Edge Hill University, you will need to apply directly using the online application form for your preferred programme, mode of study and intake date. Please refer to individual course pages to access the relevant application form and entry requirements.