The Pros & Cons of Getting a Masters Degree in England

You've completed your bachelor's degree and you're feeling accomplished! You've put in four years or more of hard work toward your desired career path, and your brain is bursting with knowledge. So what now? With the end of your undergrad comes the start of something new. Will you jump straight into the real world, or take your education to the next level? 

Figuring out to apply for a Masters degree in the UK is well worth the effort!

Pursuing a postgrad degree abroad has become an increasingly popular choice for further study, and England is at the top of the destination list. After all, it is one of the most accessible and well-known countries in the world, with endless opportunities for higher education. Earning a masters degree in England is a chance for personal growth, allowing you to gain expertise in a subject that interests you and develop a career advantage while traveling the world. But it’s not all fun and games! Unlike undergrad study abroad, masters programs abroad are much more intensive and study-focused. 

Deciding whether or not a masters degree in England is right for you is a big decision. On one hand, you’re eager to get started on your career path and make some money directly after your undergrad; on the other, taking the time to pursue masters programs in England can increase your employability. It’s important to weigh your options, and luckily, GoAbroad can help you do this! Here you’ll find the pros and cons of getting a masters degree in England.

Why a masters in the UK is a popular choice 

There are endless reasons to join masters programs in England. Perhaps you missed out on your chance to study abroad as an undergrad and want that second chance at an international experience, or you did study abroad, loved it, and feel a burning desire to do it again! Either way, a masters in UK is a popular choice. 

Getting a masters degree in England for international students didn’t become a popular choice on accident!

England is one of the world’s most popular locations for studying higher education, coming second to the USA, with over 500,000 international students enrolling each year. With an excellent reputation for world-class research and top-notch institutions, a masters degree in England is recognized and revered by employers and academics worldwide. Even better, you’ll find yourself in one of the hottest travel destinations in the world. 

From the capital of London to educational empires like Cambridge and Oxford, international students can have it all: the chance to ‘wow’ employers with superior intelligence and multitasking skills, Hogwarts-esque facilities nestled between Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, endless choices in fields of study, and as much Cadbury chocolate as you can fit in your belly. A master degree in England for international students will be a challenge, but the advantages are well worth the effort. When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.

The good & bad that comes with masters programs in England

If you’re considering masters programs in England, you’re bound to have questions. You may be wondering about how to apply for a masters degree, UK cost of living, or logistics of the programs available in England. As with any academic path, there are both good and bad things that come with studying a masters in UK. Here is everything you need to know before you go. 

The Pros

Why should you pursue a masters degree in England? We'll tell you why! 

1. Courses are taught in… English!

Masters programs are available all over the world, but choosing to study a masters degree in England means you don't have to worry about a language barrier. This is perhaps one of the greatest motivations when choosing to study a master degree in England for international students.  

Of course, going to a non-English-speaking country can be exciting because it leads to more learning opportunities and the possibility of becoming fluent in a foreign language. But grad school isn't a piece of cake. You'll already be juggling intensive, research-heavy work, culture shock, and relocation. If you have to keep up with a new language in your classes, the journey can become a strugglefest. Why not add some familiarity to make your studies more manageable?   

Sure, you'll have to drop your R's and learn a few slang words, but at least you won't have to translate lectures and textbooks in your head! 

2. British comfort is, well, comforting

English is not the only thing that makes England feel homey. The streets are easy to navigate, public transportation is simple and efficient, and the cozy British lifestyle is addicting. You will absolutely fall in love with the quaint rolling hills in the countryside and a steaming plate of shepherd's pie while studying your masters degree in England! 

England is the perfect destination for every traveler. If you're a newbie on the wanderlust train, you'll feel at home immediately with friendly locals and cozy pubs; and if you're an experienced traveler, you will settle into the multicultural society that exposes you to diverse cultures, languages, food, music, and sport on a daily basis. 

What is there not to love?! 

3. You’ll receive high quality education

It's no surprise that England is home to some of the most highly regarded universities in the world. Universities of Cambridge and Oxford immediately come to mind when you think of masters programs in England, but these are only a glimpse at the top-notch education England has to offer. Imperial College London, University College London, Queen Mary University in London, and King's College London also offer excellent masters in UK.  

International students can surround themselves with like-minded individuals who value education and take their studies seriously at almost any university in the area, not just the ones with world-renowned names. No matter where you study a masters degree in England, you'll receive quality education. 

4. One-year programs

One of the biggest reasons students decide against pursuing a postgraduate degree is the extra time commitment. You've spent quality time and lots of money on your undergrad and you're eager to jump into the 'real world.' But unlike your friends at home who will be slogging their way through two- and three-year masters courses, masters programs in England typically last only one year.  

A masters in UK is fast-paced. It can be a big adjustment coming from undergrad where you have plenty of time to pace yourself and work steadily through your courses, but the hard work of masters programs in England pays off. The intensive learning is over in just a year, meaning lower tuition costs and starting your career sooner rather than later. 

5. Ultra-independence in your studies

Compared to masters programs in the USA, masters in UK require much more independence. The courses are more research-paced, requiring individual study. Many masters programs in England involve regular meetings with advisors, but very few exams and routine assignments. You'll be in full responsibility for pacing yourself and keeping up with the work. 

While this can be difficult for those struggling with procrastination, this work style is perfect if you seek independence. While studying a masters in UK for international students, you will learn how to be self-motivated and self-sufficient. You will not have someone breathing down your neck, and this can be a liberating opportunity. 

Take charge and seize the freedom of masters programs in England. Your personal growth will skyrocket and employers will seek you out. 

[Browse ALL Graduate Programs in England]

The Cons

Of course, masters programs in England may not be for everyone. While it can be an exciting opportunity for growth, there are always struggles that follow. Here are a few. 

1. Cost—it might cost you a pretty pound

It's true, universities in the USA can leave you in debt for decades. While it may sound like a great solution to go abroad to earn a masters degree, UK cost of living is steep. The tuition prices may be much cheaper in comparison, but what about the other costs to keep you on your feet?  

Cambridge University, for example, only costs about $10-12,000 dollars to study a masters degree, but on top of this, you'll need to pay for flights, rent, utilities, food, and fun. A one-bedroom flat in the city center can cost up to £650 (~$1000 USD) per month, or £550 (~$850 USD) in the city's outskirts. A meal out will cost about £10 ($15.50 USD), and a pint of beer will cost more than anywhere else in the UK.  

It's a good idea to look into the tuition and other costs before deciding this is a better financial option for postgrad study. If you’re set on the idea of a masters in UK for international students, you should budget, fundraise, get a job, or look into scholarships to supplement the high cost of living. 

2. Double check that your degree is valid in your home country

As with any degree earned abroad, it's important to do your research to ensure a masters degree in England will be accepted when you return home to apply for jobs. This highly depends on your field of study. 

Subjects like math and physics are highly revered, while more specialized fields, like archaeology, may not be taken seriously in foreign countries. While many US schools put emphasis on teaching during a masters program, UK schools typically don't offer this opportunity. A masters in UK will be short, sweet, and to the point, so it's important to look into the requirements of your career path to know whether or not masters programs in England will benefit you. 

3. There might be limited programs depending on what you studied in undergrad

In the USA, students tend to continue on to grad school to broaden their knowledge. The UK has a different mentality: grad school is meant to hone in on what you already know and develop expertise. A masters degree in England often does not offer the chance to branch out and start with something new; instead you will be limited to study further in the subject you specialized in for your undergraduate degree. 

If you're thinking of earning your masters in UK for international students, you will need to have knowledge in their subject of study. If you don't you'll struggle to keep up with the course, especially because of the independent nature of masters programs in England. If you want a fresh start, think about learning the basics before you go, or a hire a tutor to guide you through the program. 

4. Information overload

While short master’s programs in England are excellent for independent students, some international students struggle with the intensity of a masters in UK. Short courses mean more information crammed into a short period of time. Your brain will need to be switched on at all times. 

If you don't stay on top of your work and studies, it's easy to fall behind or move forward without a sufficient grasp of the material. Keep this in mind while studying your masters in England. If you can't stay on top of the information needed to graduate, you could be in for a big waste of time! 

[The World's Best Countries to Earn Your Masters Abroad This Year]

Next steps to earning Master’s degrees in England

Find inspiration around every corner, every walk way, every ceiling.

Ready to skip over the pond for super awesome student adventures in JK Rowling’s home country? Here are some things that might help you decide whether England colleges for American students and other internationals is right for you.

• Decide where to go. Figuring out where to study in the UK isn’t easy. The gorgeous highlands? A university in London that people from home have heard of? Don't let ANYTHING hold you back—choose a place that's right for you.
• Choose from the best colleges in England. Pay attention to past participants’ reviews, program/university reputation, location, and your ease of getting credits. Some schools or providers may even provide contact info for student ambassadors or past international students if you want the REAL dirt. Here’s our guide to choosing between university programs abroad.
• Plan your finances. Sort out funding before you go to afford daily essentials and splurge in travel (in addition to program costs and airfare). Do your research to have an idea of how much your degree abroad program will cost. If you're planning to drive in the UK check out Marshmallow for car insurance designed for newcomers. They consider your full driving history—not just UK experience—helping students save money while staying covered.
• Get prepared for studying abroad for your entire degree—and make a mental plan for how you’re going to stay safe.
• Need more inspo? Here are 10 photos that'll make you want to study abroad in England RIGHT NOW. 

Let’s get this (tea) party started!

Studying in the UK is the right call

While most will pursue a masters degree because of the potential for high quality education and career improvement, consider taking it one step further and seize the advantage of living overseas. A masters degree in England will pose potential roadblocks and hurdles, just like any postgrad study, but ultimately, employers will love it! Despite the hard work of a masters degree, UK cost of living, and a high intensity workload, you'll improve yourself with determination, motivation, and adventure. 

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