What You Need To Know About Postgraduate Conversion Course
There are many reasons why you might want to do a postgraduate conversion course. They can be a great way to change careers or specialise in new fields. They are open to recent graduates and professionals with a bachelor’s degree, regardless of their previous field of study. While the idea of returning to education or studying a new course can be intimidating, it doesn’t need to be.
What is the definition of a postgraduate conversion course?
A postgraduate conversion course is a course that allows you to change career tracks into a specialist field that your first degree or previous work experience has not prepared you for.
“I’m not sure if I have the necessary qualifications”
Many prospective students feel like they don’t have the right qualifications to apply for conversion courses. This is understandable, as some require a previous degree instead of vocational experience. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not expected to know everything when you started the course.
Many conversion courses have mature students who are returning to education, This means that the courses are designed to be accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds. In addition, many courses offer support services to help students make the transition from work to study.
“Conversion courses can teach you in half the time of a master’s”
Conversion courses are designed for students who want to change careers or specialise in a new area. They typically last for two terms (30 weeks) to a year for a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma (PGCert/PGDip). The length of a conversion course can vary depending on the subject. For example, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) typically lasts a full year, however, a medical conversion course can last up to 4 years.
But not all conversion courses will be difficult. A conversion course will give you the opportunity to learn something new in a subject that you’re interested in – it may be a lot of work, but it will open many doors for your future. If you are unsure where a master’s or a postgraduate course can take you; follow our guide Quick Guide To Which Career Path A Master’s Degree Can Steer You Towards?
“Conversion courses can be expensive”
Unfortunately, higher education in the UK is not free. But this doesn’t mean you have to fully pay out of pocket. Conversion courses are vocational, which means you are not legally bound to take one. But there are a few financial options to help you pay or cover some of the cost.
- There are a variety of scholarships, grants, and bursaries up for grabs by each institution.
- You may also be eligible for a Masters’s loan from the government, as long as you haven’t previously entered a postgraduate course (even if you dropped out).
- If you are employed, you can ask for an employer scholarship. However, there may be a catch to the scholarship agreement.
- There are a few private student loans such as Lendwise. These can be taken alongside government student loans.
Are you thinking about pursuing a master’s at a top UK university? Make your dream come true by seizing this opportunity to either take your career to the next level or tick off a personal interest. *Apply online and we’ll support you on your path to success.
Representative Example: Assumed borrowing of £30,825 over 120 months at 12.73% APR representative. Monthly cost of £509.26. Total amount repayable of £61,199.65. Interest rate of 11.62% p.a.(fixed) and total fees of £925.00. Available for loan amounts between £5,000 – £100,000.
(Representative Example date: October 2024)
*Credit is subject to status and loan approval is not guaranteed. Over 18’s only. Terms and conditions apply.
“A postgraduate conversion course may not be seen as competitive in the job market”
The point of a conversion course is to make sure you are qualified to enter a specific field. Your previous experience and qualifications will help give your application a unique characteristic rather than a hindrance.
Prospective students should have no reason to be concerned with a postgraduate conversion course. If you have any questions about whether a specific postgraduate conversion course is right for you and your preferred career path, you can always seek information from the university and its recent graduates.
*This figure was correct as of 25 July 2023
