HARTPURY_POSTGRADUATE_PROSPECTUS_2023

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FLEXIBLE PATHWAYS

Studying a postgraduate qualification at Hartpury gives you the chance to develop your expertise in a topic that truly inspires you, then use that expertise to create a successful and meaningful career. From developing new professional skills to making a difference through ground-breaking research, whatever it is that has brought you this far, we can offer you a flexible pathway that takes you to your next destination. There are two main categories for postgraduate study: taught master’s and research degrees. You can study full-time or combine study with other commitments via a part-time course.

Doctoral degrees As a research degree student, you’ll study for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) qualification. A PhD can be undertaken on successful completion of a master’s degree or directly from your undergraduate degree. A PhD degree involves a significant research project on a specialist topic that adds new knowledge or understanding to a field of study. The main component of the degree is a doctoral thesis, which must be worthy of publication. Doctorates are generally completed over three to four years full-time, or six to eight years part-time. Our research degrees are conducted in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE), which means our PhD students belong to two important research communities. See pages 11 - 12 for more on research degrees.

Qualifications explained Master's degrees Full and part-time options; flexible delivery to fit around commitments A master’s degree involves both theoretical and practical learning to ensure you develop both knowledge and skills for employment. You'll be taught by a team of experts, applying theory to practice on campus or as part of a professional role alongside your studies. • Master of Science (MSc): a one, two or three-year degree, offering compulsory and optional modules, alongside a research-focused dissertation. Master of Research (MRes): a one, two or three-year degree, offering compulsory and optional modules focused on a significant piece of independent research. Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) and Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip): usually one-year qualifications, forming part of the full MSc or MRes degrees. These shorter courses give you a recognised qualification as well as the flexibility to progress to the next level on successful completion; you can work your way towards a full master’s degree. • •

Most of our courses are delivered via a mix of campus and online sessions, as well as in blocks across weekends . This ensures our students can fit their studies alongside other commitments.