MSc degrees: study a Master of Science

Primarily covering science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects, MSc degrees in the UK are available at the majority of institutions. Discover more about this popular postgraduate qualification

What is an MSc?

The Master of Science, more commonly known as the MSc, is the standard Masters qualification for taught courses in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.

MSc courses give students the chance to focus on a particular area of interest in more detail, and are particularly suited to those who work well with quantitative analysis and technical methods.

Typically one to two years in length if studied full time, courses consist of individual modules, followed by an independent study (dissertation) project. Part-time MSc programmes are available, but they're usually double the length of a full-time course.

While the qualification is awarded to those studying 'hard science' subjects, it can also be awarded to those studying technology, engineering, maths, medicine and social science courses.

For example, MSc subjects include:

astrophysics
conservation studies
cyber security
data analysis
economics
food science
forensic psychology
global finance
human nutrition
international relations
management
mechanical engineering
microbiology
professional accounting
real estate
social work
software engineering
sports therapy
statistics.

To find out more about Masters level qualifications, see what is a Masters degree?

What’s the difference between an MA and MSc?

While an MSc concerns itself primarily with STEM subjects and social sciences, the Master of Arts (MA) focuses on arts and humanities subjects. Some social science courses also fall under the MA umbrella, depending on the focus and content of the programme.

There is no difference in terms of level of study, available credits or prestige and the majority of MA courses will be taught and assessed in the same way, with a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, essays and exams.

MA subjects include:

architecture
choreography
creative writing
education
filmmaking
graphic design
history
journalism
language studies
literature
marketing
philosophy
translation.

Search for Masters courses and find out which Masters course is right for you.

What are the entry requirements?

For entry onto the majority of MSc courses you'll need a 2:1 or higher at undergraduate level. You don't necessarily need to have studied a Bachelor of Science (BSc) but you will need to have studied a relevant subject.

It may be possible to study for an MSc with a lower class undergraduate degree, but it's likely that you'll need significant work experience under your belt. Speak to your university's admissions department to find out more.

What MSc funding is available?

There are a number of funding options available to Masters students looking to lessen the financial burden.

If you're studying a taught or research Masters degree at a UK university, or by distance learning, then you may be entitled to a postgraduate loan. For courses starting in the 2024/25 academic year, you can get a loan of up to £12,471 to put towards tuition fees, study costs and living expenses.

Other funding options include:

Specific MSc funding may also be available from your university in the form of scholarships and bursaries. For example:

Cranfield School of Management offers the Santander MSc Scholarship worth £4,000 to female students studying a STEM, leadership or management course.
The University of Edinburgh offers the Moray House Access scholarship covering full tuition fees. The award is for students from underrepresented backgrounds or groups.
Nottingham Trent University via the Office for Students (OfS) provides scholarships of £10,000 to students on MSc Data Science courses.
The University of Liverpool Management School offers the ULMS Future Leaders Scholarship - a full fee waiver for home and international applicants of campus-based MSc programmes.

Can I do an online MSc?

One of the benefits of postgraduate study is its flexibility. If full or part-time study isn't for you, there are different options available.

For example, you could study for a an online or distance learning MSc, which involves learning remotely, usually from home. Lectures, tutorials and assessments take place online, making this mode of study particularly flexible. Unsurprisingly, distance learning Masters are popular with working professionals, those juggling family commitments, mature students and those living in geographically remote areas. Learn more about online learning, how to choose an online learning platform and discover tips on passing online exams.

Despite not physically attending university you're still supported by an assigned tutor, who will help to keep you motivated.

Examples of online MScs include:

Ancient Worlds, The University of Edinburgh
Applied Neuroscience, Kings College London
Artificial Intelligence, University of Bath
Business and Management, University of Essex Online
Clinical Pharmacy, The University of Manchester
Computer Science, University of Liverpool
Global healthcare Management, Coventry University
Logistics and Supply Chain Management, University of Hull
Management with Marketing, University of Sunderland
Psychology, University of Wolverhampton.

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What MSc degree apprenticeships are on offer?

Degree apprenticeships enable you to gain a university qualification while working and earning a wage. A range of institutions and employers offer MSc degree apprenticeship opportunities, including:

Manchester Metropolitan University - MSc Advanced Clinical Practitioner degree apprenticeship.
University of Leeds - MSc Geotechnical Engineering degree apprenticeship.
University College London - MSc Systems Engineering degree apprenticeship.
University of Bath - MSc Digital and Technology Solutions degree apprenticeship.
University of Derby - MSc Registered Nurse degree apprenticeship.

Learn how to apply for an apprenticeship.

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MSc degrees