WHERE DO I GET STARTED?

See our SUBJECT INFORMATION pages to find out more about the subject you're interested in. You can also search for the courses on offer on the Education UK and Prospects websites.

Visit our centre in Tirana for free Internet searches or to look at university prospectuses and other reference materials.

WHEN SHOULD I APPLY?

You should always apply directly to the institution.

You should start your application procedure at least twelve months before your course is due to begin (usually October). Many institutions do not have a formal closing date for applicants to doctoral programmes, but have admission deadlines for applicants to taught courses. In general, you should apply as early as possible to secure a place. There is usually a lot of competition for places, as well as for scholarships.

WHAT ARE THE ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS ?

Entrance requirements are usually equivalent to a UK first degree in a relevant subject and a test of proficiency in English language (usually an IELTS grade 6, a TOEFL score of 550, or equivalent). You will need to contact your chosen university for specific requirements.

Prospective research students should be preparing to research into a relevant programme. You can find out what programmes are acceptable at our EducationUK website or on Postgrad and Prospects (online directories of postgraduate opportunities). The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) also offers good information and inspiration through a ranking system of research subject for each institution.

Even if you have already checked the website and prospectus of your preferred university, it is a good idea to contact the relevant department for further details of their research activities before making an application.

The institution will want to see the official certificates you have received as evidence of your previous studies and a letter of recommendation by your former professor.

f you are applying for a doctoral programme, you have to prepare a research proposal. This should be short summary, based on research in your field.

WHAT SUBJECTS/COURSES ARE ON OFFER?

Traditionally postgraduate programmes have been divided into taught and research programmes. This division has now become less rigid and many courses contain both taught and research elements. You can often tailor degrees to fit your specific needs.
There are four types of taught postgraduate qualifications available:

			Master’s degrees (such as Master of Arts, Master of Science and various specialisms, including Master of Laws and Master of Education)
			Master of Business Administration (MBA), either general or specialist
			Certificates and diplomas, such as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), the Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) and Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert)
			New Route Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

The most prestigious research degree is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the highest academic award available. You can also study for a Master's Degree in Philosophy (MPhil), the Arts (MA) or Science (MSc). Although these are taught courses, they also require some research and/or academic independence.