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Why should I study a Master's?
Hone your interests, bolster your skillset and develop in-depth knowledge of your subject.
Not only does a Master’s open up a whole host of new experiences and connections for you, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to boost your employability and kickstart your career.
At UEA, we have relationships with hundreds of organisations in a multitude of industries and can provide you with opportunities to connect with prospective employers throughout your studies. While you’re enjoying studying your Master’s, you’ll have the chance to gain hands-on work experience and hone your career interests ready for graduation.
Using data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) and the UK Government, we’ve put together a quick guide to the career prospects, salaries, and benefits of studying your Master’s degree in the UK.
"Postgraduates are over 20% more likely to be in a highly skilled role once they graduate than undergraduates."
Will a Master's help me get a job?
Research suggests that further study can put you a step ahead of the rest.
Although a Master’s won’t guarantee you a job, you’ll be well equipped to show the incredible value of your qualification to future employers.
The stats show that graduates with a Master’s degree achieve higher overall employment, and many go on to earn more over their lifetime. Some Master’s degrees also help you gain chartership with recognised industry bodies, introducing you to influential connections and further career opportunities.
A recent HESA survey contacted leavers from the 2018-19 academic year 15 months after their graduation. It found that those with a postgraduate (taught) degree are 11% more likely to be in full-time employment than those with a Bachelor’s degree. These leavers also tended to enter the workplace at higher level positions.
Figures from the Graduate Outcomes survey show that postgraduates are over 20% more likely to be in a highly skilled role once they graduate than undergraduates.
In terms of career satisfaction, postgraduates are 4% more likely to find their employment meaningful than graduates.
Many of our Master’s graduates have joined their dream careers thanks to their studies at UEA, you can find out more about their success stories in the videos below.
What do employers value?
Master’s degrees in the UK are highly valued, whether you’re searching for local, national or international opportunities.
Many employers are increasingly aware of the value of postgraduate study. And they’re factoring this into hiring decisions more often.
As well as subject-specific knowledge which can help you enter specific industries, a Master’s equips you with numerous transferable skills for the workplace. These include communicating extensive and in-depth knowledge in a concise and engaging way, taking responsibility for your own time, workload and development, and being able to critically think and problem solve complex issues.
If you’re already working in your chosen industry, Master’s study can rapidly progress your career and give you a competitive edge over fellow job candidates. A Master’s degree can also help to kickstart a career change.
Getting ahead with UEA
How can you find the right opportunity for you?
Gaining valuable work experience and connecting with industry contacts can enhance your job prospects and complement your studies. But you don’t have to do this alone.
UEA's CareerCentral works with thousands of local and national organisations to bring work experience opportunities to you and arranges over 400 employer events and connections for UEA students every year.
They have a year-round programme of skills workshops, including:
- 1-1 advice and guidance sessions
- mentoring and volunteering schemes
- internships and placements
- plus a Working in the UK event for international students.
If you’d like to start your own business, we can make it happen too, with funding options and a network of experts to guide you through this exciting journey.
We’re still in your corner once you graduate too - we offer support for up to 3 years post-graduation.
For international students who have been awarded their degree in the UK, the Graduate Route visa provides an opportunity to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, at any skill level for 2 years, or 3 years for doctoral students.
Learn more about UEA CareerCentral
Will my salary increase with a Master's?
Research suggests you could earn much more as a postgraduate degree holder.
Salaries are a crucial consideration of any job, and you’ll want to know how that extra investment will pay you back. You’ll be pleased to know that research suggests postgraduates do earn more.
A 2020 Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) report suggests that six months after graduation, postgraduates earn on average 18% more than first degree holders.
OECD suggests that the earnings advantage for a Master’s or PhD holder over someone with high school education is 95%. It’s 45% over those with an undergraduate degree.
Why study your Master’s degree at UEA?
We can’t wait to welcome you to our wonderful university for your postgraduate degree.
There are numerous benefits to studying a Master’s – an entire world of opportunities and career prospects awaits you.
At UEA, you’ll be surrounded by world-class facilities, internationally respected academics, and a thriving global student body while you study for your Master’s.