Application Forms for Postgraduate Courses

Forms for postgraduate courses can range from the merely factual to those which include the more open ended searching questions for vocational courses, such as teaching and personnel.

Not only will the institution be looking for evidence of academic abilities, but also the appropriate commitment and personal qualities for the vocation concerned. Most of the information above will be relevant.

When should I apply?

First decide whether you wish to continue studying straight after graduation or to have a break from academia.

Many graduates go straight on to a postgraduate course allowing them to progress into a job more quickly. In addition, they are already in 'study mode'.

Alternatively you may need time out to earn some money and return with renewed enthusiasm.

Some vocational courses specify relevant work experience as an entry requirement. Business schools prefer entrants with a few years' experience in commerce or industry a necessity for an MBA.

Timetable for Applications:

You should have done your research by the end of your penultimate year to apply before the Christmas holiday. This is vital for PGCE Primary Teacher Training and law courses, and is desirable for PhDs and masters courses.

For the latter, closing dates for funding range from May to late June but you are more likely to get a well planned reference from your department if you give them time to do it without rushing.

Finding Opportunities

Applications may also be made in response to advertised posts (especially in science) which occur throughout the year and are advertised in the Vacancy Bulletins.

Departmental noticeboards, specialist publications and the broadsheet newspapers are other sources of information.

Points to Note

a) Applications

For some vocational courses, e.g. Teacher Training, Social Work, Clinical Psychology, it is necessary to apply through a clearing house. For others, e.g. Archive Administration and F.E. Teaching, there is a common application form for several institutions offering the course.

For the remaining courses application is normally made direct to the appropriate department.

b) Referees

Normally it would be appropriate for your supervisor to act as an academic referee for you. It is essential that he/she is kept informed of your applications so that a quick response can be made to requests for a reference.

This content is © The University of Hull. Edited and reproduced with kind permission from John Franks - Head of Hull University Careers Service. All Rights Reserved.