...that’s why it is vital that you choose a course that will help you meet your future employment goals. Terry Dray, Director of LJMU’s Graduate Development Centre, explains: “In science and engineering a postgraduate qualification is often a requirement, and an MBA is seen as invaluable in many sectors when supported by structured work experience. It's important to find ways to build on your employability skills and that’s where LJMU and the WoW programme could make all the difference, as being able to demonstrate the competencies required for a role can be just as important as having an additional academic qualification.”
MSc Corporate Governance student Mark Molyneux agrees: “Even though funding may seem to be an issue, graduate jobs are highly competitive and hard to find. A postgraduate qualification is a step to making yourself more employable while furthering your knowledge in your subject area.”
With fees ranging from between £3,290 and £4,250 for students from the UK (2010-rates) and £9,950 to £11,200 for international students for a taught Masters course at LJMU, the cost of getting a postgraduate degree can be a deterrent for many would-be applicants. And, unlike undergraduate students, most postgraduates do not qualify for any state funding in terms of student loans or grants.
If you rule out winning the lottery this means that you will probably have to fund your studies yourself. You could do this by taking out a bank or Professional and Career Development Loan, which can be used to cover up to 80% of the cost of a two-year course up to the value of £10,000. Alternatively, a more affordable route may be to choose to study part-time at LJMU – currently around 44% of all postgraduates at the University choose to ‘earn while they learn’; others have their course fees paid by their employer. Some students may also qualify for LJMU funding, such as the Access to Learning Fund (ALF) or help with childcare costs.
Don’t let money worries deter you from investing in your future. LJMU employs a team of staff that are experts in fees and funding and are happy to chat to you even before you apply. You can contact them on 0151 904 6056/6057 or by emailing
studentadvice@ljmu.ac.uk
FINANCE fast facts
Postgraduates on average earn 24% more than those with first degrees.
Funding may be available for some courses from a range of grant making trusts, charities and research councils.
Most full-time postgraduates are not eligible for benefits. However, single parents or students with a disability may be entitled to claim support. See
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk for more information.
Full-time students do not have to pay Council Tax. However, if you share with other people that are not full-time students the property will not be exempt. You should check the terms of your tenancy in relation to Council Tax.
If you are interested in following a PGCE course, the PgDip in Architecture or the MA Social Work, you may qualify for some level of state funding.
Professional and Career Development Loans
Professional and Career Development Loans (PCDLs) are commercial loans subsidised by the UK Government, and available to UK residents undertaking career development – including postgraduate study. PCDLs are offered by high- street banks at a commercial rate of interest but with the interest paid for by the Government during the period of learning and for one month after. PCDLs can be used to cover tuition fees, other course costs, travel, childcare and living expenses, and can be used on top of other sources of funding. For more information see
www.direct.gov.uk
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