blog-hero-what-is-a-masters-degree-Walbrook
Knowledge Hub

What is a master's degree? Guide to postgraduate study

Last updated: 17 August 2026

12 minute read

Written by
See all degree guidance

What is a master's degree? Quick summary

Considering advancing your career or specialising in your field with a master's degree? Here’s what you need to know to make the leap:

  • A master’s degree is a postgraduate qualification designed to deepen your expertise in a particular area: it can enhance employability and preparedness for the professional world.

  • You may need an undergraduate degree to begin a master's degree – but not always: some master's degree providers will recognise professional experience, offering a flexible pathway to further education.

  • Types of master's degrees include taught, research and professional programmes: MSc, MA, MEd degrees are all taught, you can gain an MRes or MPhil through a research programme, and professional master's degrees include MBAs and LLMs. 

  • Online master's degrees are usually more affordable: tuition fees are lower and there are no commuting or accommodation costs.

  • Achieving a master’s degree typically takes one to two years: success takes commitment and a strategic approach to your studies, but there is support available.

What is a master's degree? What is the meaning of a master's degree?

A master’s degree is an advanced postgraduate qualification that typically follows a bachelor’s degree. The aim of a master's degree is to develop advanced knowledge in your chosen field. This can enhance your employability and prepare you for professional practice in the workplace.

Master's degrees date back to the European universities of the Middle Ages. Originally, scholars gained the title magister or "master" when they had completed study of the "seven liberal arts": rhetoric, grammar, logic arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy. They were then considered ready to pass on their knowledge to others.

In today’s competitive career landscape, getting a master’s degree can be a pivotal step in your professional development. 

media-image-what-is-a-masters-degree-walbrook

What level is a master's degree?

A master's degree is a level 7 qualification on the UK government's 8-level scale – more advanced than an undergraduate degree at level 6, but less advanced than a doctorate at level 8.

How many credits is a master's degree in the UK?

A UK master's degree is typically 180 credits, in line with the standards set by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA). You gain these credits through a combination of taught modules, research projects, and often a concluding dissertation or thesis. This structure is designed to provide a comprehensive postgraduate education that deepens expertise and enhances academic and professional skills.

What's the difference between an undergraduate and a master's degree?

An undergraduate degree is usually the first degree you study after finishing school in the UK. It's a student's first experience of higher education. Undergraduate degrees allow you to explore the foundational concepts of your chosen subject.

Postgraduate courses, which include taught master’s degrees and research master's degrees, are more specialised. They offer you a path to deepen your expertise in a specific area or pivot your career into a new field.

  • Can you do a master's without an undergraduate degree?

    Typically, a master's degree follows an undergraduate degree. However, it's not always mandatory. The institution offering the master's degree gets to set the entry criteria.

    At Walbrook, we understand that practical, real-world experience can be as valuable as formal education. If you haven't completed an undergraduate or bachelor's degree but can demonstrate significant relevant professional experience, you can discuss your options with our Enrolment Advisors.

study-light-idea

Looking for a fully flexible online master's degree?

Discover our 100% online master's degrees and MBAs that allow you to study anytime, anywhere, with flexible payment options to make your path to progress easier today.

Find an online master's degree

Can you get a master's degree in any subject?

There's a master's course out there for almost every topic imaginable – you can study:

And if you have a truly unique interest, you may be able to apply to study it as part of a research master's.

But not every institute can provide instructor-led tuition in every subject. The best way to check if a degree provider in the UK offers a master's in a subject you want to study is the UCAS course search.

And while study for the love of learning alone is a wonderful thing, not every master's course is equally focused on growing your career. At Walbrook, all our courses are built around the skills real-world employers are looking for in today's competitive job market.

Typical master's degree entry requirements

You usually need a BA/BSc or undergraduate degree in a relevant subject to begin a master's programme, with a grade of at least 2:2. Some institutes and courses will set their requirements higher still. However, there are exceptions to this. If you have extensive practical or professional experience in a given field, some institutes, including Walbrook, will take that into account.

Find out if you're eligible to study with us by taking a look at our entry requirements webpage.

  • Typical English language requirements

    If you're applying to an English-speaking institute but English isn't your first language, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency, such as your IELTS or TOEFL score. At Walbrook, texact score you'll need depends on the course you're taking, but generally we accept:

    • an IELTS score of 6-6.5 or above

    • a TOEFL score of 79-88 or above

    • a Duolingo score of 79-88 or above

    • a Cambridge certificate score of 170-176 or above

    If you've already studied at an English-speaking institution we might accept evidence of that instead.

What is the difference between research and taught master's degrees?

The main difference between a taught master's and a research master's is the proportion of your time spent on independent research. 

  • 1. Taught master's degrees (MSc, MA, MEd)

    A taught master's degree usually lasts one year of full-time study. These courses are instructor-led and provide comprehensive knowledge in specific subject areas. Examples include a Master of Science (MSc) in scientific and technical disciplines, a Master of Arts (MA) in humanities, and a Master of Education (MEd) for educational professionals.

  • 2. Research master's degrees (MRes, MPhil)

    Degrees like Master of Research (MRes) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) also usually last one year, but you spend far more of your time on an independent research project. There may still be some taught elements, but your main focus will be undertaking your research and presenting it in your dissertation. A research degree may suit you better if you enjoy self-directed learning and care deeply about making an original contribution to knowledge. While you'll be eligible to study for a PhD after either a taught or research master's, following the research path may give you a stronger sense of what to expect if you're hoping to pursue an academic career.

Other types of master’s degrees available in the UK

All master's degrees in the UK are categorised as either taught or research. However, there are further sub-groups in the taught category.

Understanding the types of master's available can help you choose the degree that best aligns with your aspirations.

  • 1. Professional master’s degrees (MBA, LLM)

    Designed for professionals looking to advance in specific career paths, postgraduate courses such as Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Law (LLM) combine academic rigour with practical professional skills. They are highly valued in competitive business and legal industries and often include practical engagements with industries and networks.

  • 2. Integrated master's degrees (MEng, MMath)

    An integrated master's degree combines undergraduate and postgraduate studies into a single, continuous course. Typically completed over four years, integrated master's programmes offer a total of around 480 credits. Integrated master's degrees are ideal for students committed to long-term studies in specialised areas, or who enter higher education with a specific demanding career path already in mind.

MSc vs MA master's degrees

The difference between MSc and MA master's degrees is entirely about the subjects involved – neither is more demanding, advanced or prestigious than the other, and both carry the same number of credits.

  • What is an MSc master's degree?

    MSc stands for "Master of Science". It's postgraduate degree focusing on a subject in the fields of science, computing and technology, engineering and mathematics. It's typically a taught programme, featuring lectures, seminars and an independent research project.

  • What is an MA master's degree?

    MA stands for "Master of Arts" – but MA programmes cover the rest of the humanities too, including subjects such as history, education, and languages. An MA is also a taught postgraduate degree programme, involving lectures along with a dissertation based on independent research.

How long is a master's degree in the UK?

In the UK, the duration of a master's degree can vary depending on the type of programme and the mode of study. For full-time students, most master's courses usually take one or two years to complete.

If you require more flexibility, part-time master's degree programmes offer the advantage of spreading your studies over a longer period. This can be especially beneficial if you're balancing professional commitments or personal responsibilities alongside your studies.

Online master’s degrees provide additional flexibility, so you can pace your studies to fit your individual needs and availability.

media-image-knowledge-hub-degree-guidance_Walbrook

How much is a master's degree in the UK?

Tuition fees for master's degrees in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the degree provider and the subject area. For UK students, tuition fees for a master's degree can range from £7,000 to over £15,000 per year. However, courses in high-demand fields might cost more.

blog-media-image-3-mba-duration-costs-steps

You should also consider additional master's degree costs beyond tuition, such as accommodation, living expenses, textbooks, and other study materials. For master's students who choose to study 100% online, the total cost of study often ends up being less since you can save significantly on accommodation and commuting expenses.

At Walbrook, our online master's degrees start from just £6,960, and our MBA programmes are just £8,880, reflecting the absence of physical campus costs since our courses are delivered 100% online.

Salary prospects for master's graduates

While there is a great deal of variation between sectors, and different types of master's degree have different outlooks, gaining a master's degree does appear to make a measurable difference.

According to the government's Graduate Labour Market Survey (GLMS), in 2024 postgraduates enjoyed a £3,000 median salary advantage over graduates – and earned £10,000 per year on average more than non-graduates.  

How do you get a master's degree?

The journey to joining the ranks of master's degree graduates involves commitment and planning. Here's what you should expect.

1. Choose the right master's degree

What did you get the most value from during your undergraduate degree? What are your personal interests and career aspirations?  And what thriving or emerging sectors might you be able to work in the future?

You need to figure out your goals, then assess how a specific master's degree can help propel you in towards them. To make an informed decision, talk to professionals in your chosen industry, attend webinars, and read up-to-date field-specific research.

media-image-what-is-a-masters-degree

2. Choose a study model

Choosing the right study model is essential to ensure your master's degree aligns with your personal needs. On-campus learning offers a traditional, structured educational environment with direct access to university facilities, often requiring a commute to campus or even relocation.

For maximum flexibility, 100% online distance learning allows you to access coursework and interact with instructors and peers virtually from anywhere in the world at any time. This mode suits professionals planning to work and study, or anyone needing to fit their studies around other life commitments. When you study for an online master's degree with us, we offer the convenience and innovation of modern education 100% online, making continuing education more accessible and adaptable to your life.

3. Research master's degree providers

Once you've chosen your subject, the next step is to find the right institution or degree provider. If you're currently coming to the end of your three-year undergraduate degree, it's useful to know that you don't have to study for your postgraduate degree with the same provider.

Key factors to consider at this stage include the provider’s course catalogue, support services available, particularly for new distance learners, and career development opportunities available. Additionally, consider the flexibility of the course delivery, especially if you need to fit your studies around professional commitments.

Young woman working on laptop at office cafe

4. Plan your master's degree funding

Financing your master's degree is a crucial step in your preparation process, and understanding the available options can ease the financial burden, allowing you to focus wholly on your studies. Start by exploring postgraduate loans, which are a common option for many postgraduates. Loans can be paid back in manageable instalments after graduation, often depending on your income level.

5. Apply and accept your offer

The application process is your gateway to securing a spot in your desired master’s programme. Craft a compelling narrative in your application, showcasing your qualifications and vision.

Once you receive your acceptance, review the conditions, celebrate your success, and prepare for the exciting educational journey ahead.

Male professional in orange jumper looks at postgraduate degree reviews by masters students.

How to apply for your master's degree

You apply directly to the university or institute for most master's courses. UCAS only handles applications for a small minority of master's degrees. Most degree providers offer online application portals or application packs that you can download.

You may need to share various documents. These could include:

  • your CV

  • your undergraduate degree certificate or academic transcript

  • proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL, if applicable

  • academic or professional references

Considering studying with Walbrook? Find out how to apply in 6 simple steps.

When to apply for your master's degree

All institutes have their own start dates and deadlines and the process – many providers will suggest you apply as much as six months before the course begins. However, with an online master's degree at Walbrook you don't have to wait. We have intakes every month, so you can get started within weeks of applying.

Steps to graduation: obtaining your master's degree

Embarking on your master's degree is a transformative journey that requires commitment, planning, and a proactive approach. Below are essential steps to guide you through studying effectively and reaching graduation successfully.

1. Plan your study schedule

Once enrolled on your postgraduate degree, the first key to success as a master's student is managing your time efficiently. Setting clear goals, prioritising tasks, and establishing a consistent study schedule are crucial strategies.

Building a structured calendar that incorporates adequate breaks will ensure sustainability over the duration of your course. Using digital tools and apps can help keep you on track and remind you of your daily tasks and deadlines.

 

Male student studying to become a data engineer from home office.

2. Commit to engaging with your course content

Engage deeply with your course materials. This doesn’t just mean paying attention during lectures but actively participating in discussions, spending time on your recommended reading, and tackling tasks enthusiastically.

Deep engagement is essential for enhancing your understanding and retaining crucial information long-term. Taking an active part in classroom discussions and connecting with your peers can often provide different perspectives that enhance your own understanding.

3. Engage with support services

Take full advantage of the support offered by your master's degree provider. Regularly engaging with support services will provide valuable guidance and help you stay on track with your studies.

At Walbrook, you’ll have access to a dedicated support team who can help you stay focused, motivated, and on track with your studies. Whether you need help managing your workload, understanding expectations, or planning your next steps, our team is here to guide you throughout your learning journey.

Besides student support teams, engaging with student forums and groups can provide informal advice and support. Often, the shared experiences and tactics from fellow students prove invaluable.

Friendly woman with headset offering support with postgraduate study.

4. Complete your assignments and projects on time

Assignments and projects are key opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge practically. Approach them with diligence, ensuring you meet all academic standards and deadlines. Collaboration with peers can also offer new insights and enhance your learning experience.

As you progress towards more complex assignments, start early and allocate plenty of time for research, drafting, and revisions. This not only ensures quality but also lessens last-minute pressures, allowing for a more thorough exploration of your topic.

5. Prepare for your exams or final project

Preparing for exams and completing your final project or thesis marks an exciting point in your master's journey. Design a revision strategy that includes a mix of learning techniques such as group discussions, visual aids, and practice exams.

Also, leverage the support network around you by participating in study groups and seeking continuous feedback from your lecturers and coaches. This collaborative approach diversifies your understanding and helps you stay motivated and confident.

Remember, each step you take in preparation brings you closer to achieving your academic goals and celebrating your success.

Woman in striped jumper preparing for postgraduate study exams from home

6. Complete your graduate degree!

Completing your degree is not just an academic milestone. It's a transformative experience shaping your career and personal development. Celebrate this momentous achievement as a testament to your hard work and commitment. As you transition from student to graduate, take pride in how far you've come and look forward with confidence to the new opportunities that now lie ahead.

Why choose Walbrook for your online master's journey?

At Walbrook, our online taught master's degrees are crafted with the latest industry demands in mind, ensuring that you are equipped with theoretical knowledge and practical, applicable skills in your chosen field.

At our core, we understand the importance of flexibility in postgraduate study, especially for those juggling work or family commitments alongside personal development. That's why our online degrees offer a learning experience that fits your lifestyle without compromising on quality or support.

Take the next step towards transforming your professional life by exploring Walbrook's range of online master's degrees in some of the most exciting and in-demand areas today. Whether it’s driving innovation in tech, shaping future business landscapes, leading management revolutions, or harnessing the power of data and AI, your future starts here.

Find an online master's degree
Smiling man in yellow polo shirt beginning postgraduate study online from home.

Master's degree FAQs

Related articles