Postgraduate study at University of Sunderland

Research degrees

The University of Sunderland offers Taught Masters and Research Degrees for postgraduate study.

Our research has been classed as 'world leading' in 10 subjects by the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE 2008).

All our research programmes are designed to develop deeper understanding through original investigation and to generate new knowledge.

Taught Masters

A taught Masters degree (normally an MA, MSc or MEd) is an award granted on the basis of an individually initiated and registered research programme.

The programme is built around a supervised thesis on a substantial piece of work, which may need to show evidence of originality and contain material worthy of publication. It also involves an element of research training through generic courses and taught modules and/or courses.

If you are a graduate of the University of Sunderland, you may be eligible for a £750 postgraduate study discount.

Postgraduate fees and funding

A Postgraduate degree is an investment in your future. As well as broadening your knowledge and skills, a postgraduate qualification also increases your earning power.

According to a report from the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi), people with a postgraduate qualification earn an average of 27% more than graduates with just an undergraduate degree.

Tuition fees vary according to what type of postgraduate degree you are taking - there are  taught postgraduate tuition fees and research postgraduate tuition fees.

Part-time and distance learning

For some people, learning is a stepping stone to a new career, while others study to broaden their horizons and gain personal satisfaction. However, juggling work and family commitments means it is often difficult to study full-time.

At Sunderland we offer a huge range of part-time postgraduate courses, so you can fit your learning around your other commitments.

Part-time study options include evenings, Saturdays, occasional block weeks or studying one or two days midweek alongside full-time students.

Distance Learning

Distance learning is possible for some Taught Masters and MPhil and PhD programmes.

Postgraduate students on distance learning programmes are not based at the University, and instead undertake their research from elsewhere (often overseas), with a supervision team comprising of supervisors from the University.

Combining study and work

Employers are generally very positive about their staff studying part-time. Workers who take the initiative to improve their skills invariably become more valuable to their employers, thanks to their increased knowledge, improved analytical and communication skills and broader networks.

Many of our part-time students not only have the emotional backing but also the financial support of their employers. Employers know their can trust the University of Sunderland's reputation for combining academic rigour with practical skills, and so they feel confident investing in their employees.

Debbee Forster's employer, InterContinental Hotel Group (IHC), encouraged her to study for a MSc in Human Resource Management. IHC paid Debbee's course fees, and they also provided study leave and flexible working arrangements to help her meet study deadlines.

(Sourse:http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/)