LSBF Postgraduate

What is a postgraduate degree?

LSBF has partnered with the International Telematic University UNINETTUNO and Geneva Business School in order to provide globally recognised online postgraduate programmes such as the Global MBA, Master in Finance and Investments and the Dual Master in Strategic Marketing. You can also combine a postgraduate programme with a professional qualification such as ACCA or AAT to maximise your career potential. A postgraduate, or Master’s, degree is an advanced qualification, taken after the student has already finished their undergraduate course, Bachelor’s degree programme (or equivalent). Unlike most undergraduate degrees, a postgraduate usually lasts only one or two years if the student is studying full-time.

The main difference between an MA and an MSc is the subject matter: an MA stands for ‘Master of Arts’, whereas an MSc stands for ‘Master of Science’ degrees. For example, MA’s use research and essay writing as the main forms of study, with discussions in the classroom and other practical exercises. They are also often focused on specific topics within a particular field, which leads to in-depth knowledge for the student. MSc’s focus on learning all of the theory behind a topic, reading as widely as possible, and individual research. They tend to give you a good overview and a broad understanding of a general field of study.

An MA is also more likely to lead to a professional career, whilst an MSc tends to give students the experience needed for an academic career. Most master’s degrees only have a few hours of contact time with a tutor; the majority of the degree is independent study by the student. In general, students take master’s degrees full-time, though part-time options are available for those with work or family commitments. Students who study a master’s degree are awarded a distinction, merit or pass when they complete it.

There are also two forms of master’s degrees: taught and research. A taught master’s uses similar methods to an undergraduate degree, such as lectures, seminars, essays, and exams, as well as tutor support. A research master’s involves the close study of one topic through writing a dissertation with a supervisor’s support. Most postgraduate programmes involve working with other students in lectures and seminars, with coursework to track your progress.

Entry Requirements

For the majority of postgraduate degrees, you need to have completed an undergraduate degree or equivalent before applying. However, if you did not go to university, relevant work experience is sometimes accepted instead. Entry requirements can differ greatly between programmes and between institutions, so make sure you check before applying. They can also be different for home and overseas students. If you are not a native English speaker, you may also need to prove that you can communicate well in written and spoken English before being accepted onto a course. A common proof of English language skills is one of the international English Tests certificates, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and others. Each educational institution has their own requirements with regards to which test is accepted and which mark has to be achieved to satisfy the admissions criteria.