Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to your questions about our institution, programmes, admissions, and more. We’re here to guide you on your educational journey. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact our friendly team for assistance.

Which Masters degree should I study?

To decide which is the best Masters degree for you, first consider your current level of education, your commitments, and any future career goals you may have. For example, if you’re thinking about entering a high-demand field, like business administration; health administration; engineering; or the computer sciences, then a Masters degree could be extremely beneficial. 

At Northumbria University London, you can choose from a range of Business, Computing, Cyber, and Project Management programmes. 

View the courses we have to offer.

What are the benefits of studying a Masters degree in the UK?

Studying a Masters degree in the UK offers a wealth of benefits, whether you’re an international student or based in the UK already. Boasting a reputation and standard for education that is respected across the globe, many organisations around the world value degrees from UK universities, which is why many of our alumni have achieved career success abroad and in the UK. 

At Northumbria University London, our globally recognised Masters degrees are designed to help you: 

  • Build subject-specific knowledge and expertise, whether you’re progressing from an undergraduate degree, or you want to specialise in your current career  
  • Study more intensive, advanced, and fast-paced modules in smaller class sizes 
  • Gain practical knowledge and skills that are valued in real-world businesses  
  • Access a global network of alumni, academics, and professionals that are beneficial for future career growth 
  • Experience life in a different country, getting the chance to learn and interact with peers from a range of diverse backgrounds and gain a broader perspective on global issues – all of which help to prepare you for work in a global market 

Whether you are just starting out, considering a career change, want to specialise in your field, start-up an SME, or improve upon your skills and knowledge in your current job role, we have a large range of Postgraduate degree programmes available to help.

Find out more about our available postgraduate degrees.  

Why should I study at Northumbria University London?

At Northumbria University London, we embrace tomorrow. We pursue new thinking, forge new partnerships, create and exchange new knowledge, and find new solutions. Our inspirational academics, partners, and students work together to tackle tomorrow’s challenges head on.

Find out more in our Northumbria University London prospectus

With its modern and professional study facilities, our London campus is conveniently located where the financial district meets the heart of London’s digital and technology sector. This gives our students an excellent base from which to take full advantage of all that London has to offer, including work experience and networking opportunities.  

Explore the state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge classrooms at Northumbria University London through our immersive 360 virtual tour. 

When can I study a postgraduate degree and how long does it take?

At Northumbria University London, we offer flexibility over when you can start your studies with us.  

With a choice of September, January, and May intakes available for our range of undergraduate Top-up degrees, Pre-Masters, and Masters degrees, you have complete control over your future.

Find out more about course durations and start dates

What are my employment prospects after I graduate? 

Northumbria University is rated Gold for Student Outcomes (Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), 2023). 

We place great importance on engaging with the worlds of business, finance, and other sectors. This engagement takes many forms; from consultancy projects that address specific issues faced by organisations, to industry-related training in areas such as business analysis and leadership development.  

At the heart of the Northumbria University London’s support network is the Student Futures and Careers team who provide a range of services, including an online careers portal (with employer videos, practice psychometric tests, and other resources); workshops; and one-to-one appointments.  

Following successful graduation, full-time Northumbria University London Masters students are also eligible to undertake 3 short professional training courses with our partner, QA Higher Education, at no extra cost. These Professional Pathways give you the opportunity to enhance your CV with further training, worth more than £3,000 and continue to develop skills that are highly valued by employers with one of the UK’s largest corporate training providers, QA Learning. 

What’s the difference between postgraduate and undergraduate study, and top-up courses? 

The term ‘undergraduate’ refers to the first level of degree that students study ­– known as a Bachelors degree, while ‘postgraduate’ is used to describe the next level of qualification that graduate students study, typically a Masters, Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert), or Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip). The term ‘postgraduate’ is also used to describe those studying PhDs.  

At Northumbria University London, we also offer Top-up degrees that complement your existing Level 5 qualification and convert it to a full undergraduate (Bachelors) degree (Level 6). Essentially, it is the equivalent of the final year of undergraduate study but is recognised in the same way that a full degree is.  

Typically, a UK undergraduate degree takes three years to complete. However, if you already hold a Level 5 qualification, a top-up degree allows you to enter at the final year of study, enabling you to achieve a full Bachelors degree in just one year. 

Learn more about our Top-up degrees,  or learn more about the different levels of study we have available

What’s the difference between the MSc Cyber Security and MSc Cyber Security Technology?

Our MSc Technology courses (such as MSc Cyber Security Technology), are part of a distinct group of programmes known as MSc conversion courses. They are designed to provide students with an introduction to the subject at a more accessible technical level. For these Masters degrees, we accept students from any discipline. 

Due to the specialist knowledge needed for our MSc Cyber Security degree, and other similarly named Masters degrees, students are required to have a BSc in a related field, such as computing or cyber security. 

I haven’t been in formal education for a long time. What do I need to know about studying as a mature student?

We understand that the transition to university life can be a big step, which is why we provide range of services at our London campus to help make it as smooth as possible. Our support services can help if you: 

  • Need academic advice or additional support  
  • Are an international student looking for guidance on living in the UK 
  • Are looking for employment opportunities 
  • Are returning to studies after a long period  

On campus, your first point of contact should be our Ask4Help desk, located on the third floor, where our helpful support staff can direct you to the right service.  

Learn more about all the services available at our London campus.  

You may also wish to consider a Pre-Masters course that will provide you with extra academic support to help you meet the required criteria and get you ready for a Masters programme.  

What is a Pre-Masters course?

Our Pre-Masters programmes are an ideal way to prepare for studying a Masters degree. 

If you are interested in studying a postgraduate degree but have not studied for a while or require additional support to meet the entry requirements, our Pre-Masters programmes help to ease you in to studying. You can also progress on to a Masters at Northumbria University London once you successfully pass your Pre-Masters programme and meet the entry requirements for your chosen Masters.

How will I be taught and where will I study?

You will mainly be taught through lectures, tutorials, workshops, and directed study, but will also be expected to invest equal time on individual learning. Depending on your chosen degree, assessments for your course could include assignments, presentations, and group work.  

You will be taught at our London campus, which is conveniently located just minutes from Liverpool Street station, giving you easy access to everything London has to offer. 

The campus itself offers outstanding facilities to students, with state-of-the-art classrooms allowing students to learn in a modern environment that utilises the latest technology. 

Learn more about our London campus

What postgraduate study options do you offer, and how do the schedules work for each?

At postgraduate level, we offer full-time and advanced practice study options. Several of our postgraduate programmes are also available to study as a part-time degree for students from the UK.  

Please note, part-time study options are not available for international students coming to the UK on a Student Route Visa. 

Our full-time and advanced practice study options are taught through on-campus sessions and our part-time degrees are taught using a combination of online/virtual and on-campus sessions. 

When can I expect to receive my course timetable?

Timetables are made available after successful enrolment onto your desired course. Once you have enrolled, you’ll be able to access your timetable via the Student Portal.

Read our helpful Northumbria University London Resources Guide to learn more.  

I want to study a part-time Masters Degree, what days will I be expected to be on campus? 

Each of our part-time degrees are scheduled with face-to-face sessions delivered in weekend blocks. For many of our programmes, each individual module requires 1 full weekend of on-campus sessions, consisting of a total of 12 hours of face-to-face workshops spread over Saturday and Sunday.  

Some of our more technical modules require an additional half-weekend of on-campus sessions, but this is dependent on your course of study.  

For further information, please contact our team via an enquiry form

Is there any financial support available, such as scholarships or bursaries? 

Our Student Finance Team are available to help with financial advice or worries whilst you are studying with us, such as the cost of living. If you would like to make an appointment, contact them at 

LondonFinanceSupport@northumbria.ac.uk.  

Scholarships and bursaries for international students 

If you are a full-time international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships or bursaries to help fund your studies at our London campus. The total amount that you can receive is dependent upon your nationality, previous academic achievements, abilities, and the full-time programme you choose to study. 

Find out more about bursaries and scholarships

Scholarships and bursaries for students from the UK 

Northumbria University London does not currently offer scholarships or bursaries for UK based students. However, we may be able to offer financial assistance in rare circumstances. Please contact our team to find out more about the options available. 

If you are based in the UK, you may be eligible for financial assistance from other bodies, such as UK government funding. You can find out if you are eligible for any scholarships, bursaries, or grants by using resources like The Scholarship Hub

How much does a UK Masters degree cost and are there payment deadlines?

Information about tuition fees and payment deadlines for your chosen Masters degree can be found on our courses page – simply select the degree you wish to study to find out more.

How do I pay for my Masters?  

We offer two convenient and secure online payment methods:   

  • ‘Pay Online with Flywire’ for a fast and secure international payment experience 
  • Credit/debit card payments for those unable to use Flywire  

We also offer the option to pay in-person for anyone that would prefer to pay this way.  

Find out more about how to pay for your course

For Home students looking for a way to fund their studies, The £10,000+ Postgraduate Loan (PGL) is open to all eligible UK students studying any postgraduate degree, full or part-time. 

For more information visit our financing options page.

What kind of financial help is available for students?

If you are a self-funded student and have a question about payments or need some support – particularly with any difficulty making payments – our Finance Team can offer you assistance. Please contact our Finance Team for support and advice as soon as possible via email at: LondonFinanceSupport@northumbria.ac.uk.

What type of visa do I need to apply for to study in the UK? 

You’ll need to apply for a Student Route Visa to study a Masters degree. Other visa types won’t be considered eligible. 

Please visit the government Student Visa page to find out more information.   

How can I apply for a Student Route Visa? 

Students need to secure their unconditional offer place with a deposit payment first and then request the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) to apply for a Student Route Visa.  

Once the initial deposit has been paid and an unconditional offer has been issued, you will then need to pass a Pre-CAS interview. This is an interview conducted between a compliance officer and student and is a necessary step to obtain your CAS. 

After passing your Pre-CAS interview, you will need to submit your CAS documents, consisting of your TB certificate and bank documents. The TB certificate needs to be valid at least 2 months after the enrolment date. (Please note that some countries are TB-exempt and will not need to show this.) Your bank documents will need to show that you have enough funds to cover the remaining course fees and living expenses and that they have been held in your account for a minimum of 28 consecutive days to show a 28-day maturity. If the funds have not matured, your visa will be refused.  

Once these documents have been checked and verified, the CAS will then be issued. 

You can find more advice and guidance about Student Route Visas, including eligibility and requirements, on the UKCISA website.   

What is a Certificate of Acceptance of Studies (CAS)?

Once you’ve been offered a place on your chosen course, we will send you a reference number, called a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies, which you will need to include on your visa application within 6 months of receipt.  

Please visit the government Student Visa page to find out more information about Student Route Visas and the application process.

When will my CAS be issued? 

Your CAS will only be issued once all the relevant checks have been completed.  

If your CAS or visa is delayed, and depending on the circumstances, you can request an extension, which will be granted at the discretion of the university. Alternatively, you can defer to the next available intake or apply for a refund.  

How long can I stay in the UK after I graduate? 

International students are welcome to apply to stay in the UK and work, or look for work, after graduation via a Graduate Route Visa. If you have successfully completed an undergraduate or Masters degree, you can apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after your studies, giving you the opportunity to take the next step into employment in the UK.   

Can I work while studying in the UK? 

You may be able to work up to 20 hours per week during term time whilst studying in the UK. 

With a Student Route Visa you can: 

  • Study 
  • Work as a Student Union Sabbatical Officer 

Please visit the government Student Visa page to find out more information on what you can and cannot do on a Student Route Visa. 

Our QAHE Student Futures and Careers team can also help you find a job after graduation or a part-time job during your study.   

Can I study part-time at Northumbria University London? 

If you are a home/EU student, you can study part-time or full-time courses depending on entry criteria. 

If you are using a Student Route Visa to study in the UK as an international student, you can only study full-time courses.   

What are the entry requirements for postgraduate degrees?

View the specific entry requirements for each of our programmes.  

If the course you are interested in isn’t listed or you would like to discuss your eligibility, please register your interest and one of our team will contact you. 

I don’t have an undergraduate degree but would like to study a Masters degree. What other experience or qualifications do you accept for postgraduate course entry? 

For many of our postgraduate degrees we consider a variety of non-standard entry requirements, including industry relevant certifications and/or experience. Requests for entry onto a postgraduate degree via this route are considered on a case-by-case basis. 

For more information about these options, please refer to the “non-standard entry requirements” section on the course page you are interested in.

When and how can I apply for a postgraduate degree?

Find out more about application deadlines or find out more information about how to apply.

What documents will I need to complete my course application?

International students 

To enable us to assess your application in a timely manner, it is important that you provide us with the following documents: 

  • A fully completed application form (your personal email address must be included) 
  • Transcripts and/or certificates (including a certified translation if not in English) 
  • Passport – copy of personal details page 
  • Proof of financial sponsorship, if applicable 
  • Portfolio, if required (Art and Design portfolios only to be sent with your application; you will be notified of how to send portfolios for any other courses after we receive your application) 
  • References 
  • Confirmation of immigration history, including copies of any previous and current visas if applicable 

By applying online, you can upload all relevant and required documents at the point of application. 

Home students

Home students should provide the following: 

  • A fully completed application form (your personal email address must be included) 
  • Transcripts and/or certificates (including a certified translation if not in English) 
  • Passport – copy of personal details page 
  • Proof of financial sponsorship, if applicable 
  • Portfolio, if required (Art and Design portfolios only to be sent with your application; you will be notified of how to send portfolios for any other courses after we receive your application) 
  • References (if you’re applying for part-time programmes, please provide 2 referees) 
  • Confirmation of immigration history, including copies of any previous and current visas if applicable 
  • Applicants for part-time programmes should also provide an up-to-date copy of your CV

Can I apply to more than one degree?

Yes, you can. You will need to submit two separate personal statement letters to explain why you’d like to apply for each course.  

Once you have decided which course you’d like to study, you can proceed through the application process as normal. You can either ask the university to withdraw your application for the course you won’t be proceeding with, or we will withdraw the application ourselves after the deadline has passed – you will be notified of this automatically by email.    

I’ve already applied but I want to start my degree later. What do I do? 

International Students 

We understand that circumstances can change. If, for any reason, you need to defer to a later intake, all you need to do is complete a deferral form. Please contact your regional team for more information on how to do this. 

Students from the UK 

If you have already applied for a course but wish to defer to the next intake, then you will need to ask your admissions officer for a deferral request form to complete. 

Please note that all deferral requests are dealt with on a case-by-case basis and, if approved, you may be required to update your personal statement with the reason for your deferral.

When will I know if my application is successful?  

Once your application is assessed, your offer will be emailed to you or your educational representative. Please check your applicant portal regularly for any important information.

What happens if my application is unsuccessful?

You will receive an email from the Admissions Team explaining why your application could not be accepted at this time.  

To ensure you have the best possible chance of success, please read our entry requirements carefully to check that you meet them. If your application is unsuccessful, you can also reach out to the relevant recruitment team and ask them to review the decision and offer advice on the reasons and/or appeal process. 

What support is available for students on and off campus?  

We have a variety of support services available to all students on campus, who will also be able to advise you of any further off-campus support services available.  

Find out more about our academic, career, financial, and wellbeing support services.

 

Are there any societies/activities for students?

Northumbria University Students’ Union London (NSU) helps you socialise outside your classes and meet like-minded people. With a dedicated London Coordinator, NSU London run many events throughout the year, from trips to the theatre and famous landmarks to social get-togethers and wellbeing events.  

Whether you need independent academic advice or want to get involved with social events, our London Coordinator is on hand to support you Monday to Friday and will be your main point of contact.  

Visit the NSU London page for further information and to see what’s on. They are also active on social media, and you can find their channels linked at the bottom of their webpage.

 

What careers and employability support will I have access to?  

The QAHE Student Futures and Careers team supports students to help them achieve their ambitions, make the most of their experiences, develop their skills, and manage their future career.  

They offer a wide range of activities and support to help students at every step of their journey at Northumbria University London. If you need support finding a job after graduation or are looking for a part-time job whilst you study with us, the Student Futures and Careers team is here to help! 

As a student you will be invited to attend on-campus and online workshops every month, which cover careers and employability themes to help you plan, research, and apply for your ideal career path.  

You can also access the following support: 

  • One-to-one career guidance with our career advisors covering career options, career planning, and job application support 
  • LinkedIn profile reviews 
  • Mock interview support  
  • CV and cover letter support 
  • Advanced Practice student support (internship option) 
  • Careers and employability workshops, and employer-led events  
  • Notifications of work experience and job opportunities 
  • Access to a variety of careers resources, including: 
  • Our Graduate Futures portal – this has career development resources and jobs online 
  • CareerSet – an online CV and cover letter review platform  
  • ShortlistMe – a mock interview platform  

You will also receive a monthly newsletter signposting you to job opportunities, on-campus workshops, and external events in the local area.

How much does accommodation cost and how can I find accommodation?

The price of accommodation can vary depending on location and facilities. Find out more about finding accommodation and the support available. 

How do I apply and pay for my accommodation?

Learn more about finding accommodation and the support available. 

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