Master's studies in England - part-time or full-time?

If you are going for a Master's degree in the UK, one of the things that is definitely worth considering is the issue of what mode you would like to study in.

Master's studies in the United Kingdom can typically be undertaken in two modes: full-time (FT) and part-time (PT) - some (few!) universities also offer evening courses.

The basic difference between a full-time and a part-time master's degree

The fundamental difference is that clear division into FT and PT studies does not exist, just as it is the case in many European countries when it comes to full-time and part-time studies. At universities in Great Britain, part-time course students are typically put into the same classes as full-time students, with the main difference that the modules are spread over longer period - usually two years instead of one year. They usually take place in the same groups and hours and with the same lecturers.

Since, in essence, part-time master's degree studies are the same as full-time ones, the question arises: why do the same thing in two years when it can be done in one?

A year at university is for many very short...

Especially in the British semester system - where studies last two three-month semesters, and exams constitute a separate, third semester. If, additionally, you would like to continue your education after your master's studies (for example, apply for a PhD), then you should submit your application two to three months after starting your studies, which gives very little time.

A year is very little, especially if you consider the fact that studies are not only lectures and seminars, but also access to the entire academic environment, contact with lecturers, access to well-equipped libraries, and many other benefits.

Working while studying

Furthermore, part-time studies will allow you to more easily balance university with work. Although as a rule, master's studies are not particularly time-consuming, they may require a lot of work at some universities and in certain fields. Studying part-time means less stress, the opportunity for better focus on the material being covered, and more time that you can allocate to work.

If you're paying for your studies out of your own pocket...

Studying part-time will make it easier for you to afford master's studies. The tuition fees for full-time and part-time studies are usually equal, except that in the second case it is spread over two years. Part-time studies also mean two years of student privileges and discounts.

In summary…

In what situation is it worth considering part-time studies?

• when you are still young and in no hurry to go anywhere;
• when you pay for your studies out of your own pocket;
• when you can work part-time during your studies and gain experience in the industry that interests you;
• if you like to have more flexibility in your life;
• if you like studying and the university atmosphere.

When is it worth choosing full-time studies?

• If you want to finish your studies as soon as possible and start working full-time;
• If you finance your studies entirely with a loan;
• If you want to fully dedicate yourself to science.