UK Universities for Masters: Top Universities

Among the several countries students choose to study abroad, the UK is among the top ones on the list. The UK is famous globally for its high quality of education and remarkable research facilities. This makes Masters courses in the UK highly popular among students worldwide. Another important reason why international students opt for MS programs in the UK is that there are many 1-year Masters courses offered at several UK universities. The shorter duration of the program means lesser associated costs and faster-earning prospects within 12 months!

Many UK universities feature in the top 100 per QS World University Rankings 2023. This makes them immensely popular among international students aspiring to study in the UK. All UK universities offer diverse study fields to students with varied academic and career goals - from Engineering and Computer Science to Supply Chain Management and Nursing. This article brings to light some of the best universities in the UK that are worth considering for higher studies in the UK, their ranking, the top MS programs they offer, their admission criteria, and a few vital tips for you.

Top Universities in the UK for a Masters

The UK has a wide range of universities offering Masters programs to students from all parts of the world. Many of these universities rank highly per the QS World University Rankings 2023 and are, therefore, widely preferred among students for admissions. The list below details the top 15 UK universities for Masters listed in order of their rank for your easy reference:

1.The University of Edinburgh

One of the top international universities in the UK, the University of Edinburgh has been offering top-class education to students since 1583. The university is renowned worldwide for its remarkable research facilities and brilliant faculty. Students are offered a fine blend of practical experience with theoretical learning for better employment prospects.

Some of the most popular Masters courses among international students at the University of Edinburgh include:

• MSc Education (Child and Adolescent Psychology)

• MSc Design and Digital Media

• MSc Management

Though the entry requirements for different Masters programs at the University of Edinburgh vary, some of the most commonly acceptable admission criteria for all Masters programs include a Bachelor's degree from a recognised university in India with an aggregate of 60% or higher. Additionally, all students must demonstrate English language proficiency with an overall 7.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.ed.ac.uk/studying/international/postgraduate-entry/asia/india
https://www.ed.ac.uk/arts-humanities-soc-sci/international-eu/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements}

The university offers a few quick tips for international students joining Masters courses. Here are some of them:

• Make as many notes as possible during your study program and research. They come in handy all the time. Make sure to jot down everything, even minor details that you may deem unnecessary. It may be helpful later on.

• Create a day planner for the entire week. Planning your day is essential when pursuing a Masters program. It helps to manage your time and juggle all your tasks well.

• Make the most of all resources and facilities available to you. Join student societies, take part in cultural programs, be a member of a book club. Enjoy your university experience thoroughly.

2. University of Manchester

One of the top universities in the UK for Masters programs, the University of Manchester has been in operation since 1824. It offers some of the best educational facilities to its students coming from nearly 160 countries. Some of the most notable Masters courses offered at the university include:

• MSc Human Resource Development (International Development)

• MSc Marketing

• MSc International Fashion Retailing

International students opting for Masters courses at the University of Manchester must have completed at least 3 years of Bachelors in First Class division from a recognised university overseas. The minimum aggregate should ideally be between 60% and 80%. Additionally, you must score an overall 7.0 or higher on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/international/country-specific-information/india/entry-requirements/#country-profile}

3. King’s College London

Serving students with the finest quality education in the UK for nearly 200 years, King's College continues to be one of the most esteemed study institutions in the UK for university-level education. The facility has the best experts from varied domains serving as faculty for the students. Some of the most popular programs at the Masters level for international students are:

• MA in Politics and Economics of the Middle East

• MSc Banking and Finance

• MSc Accounting, Accountability, and Financial Management

A Bachelor's degree (Honours) with a First Class (70%-75%) from a renowned and recognised university overseas is the standard requirement for most Masters courses at King's College London. Additionally, all international students must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency with an overall 7.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study-legacy/postgraduate/apply/entry-requirements/international}

International students at King’s College London are encouraged to make full use of all available resources on campus. These include student essential services, facilities available for students within the facility, and student events organised regularly at the college for the benefit of students.

4. University of Bristol

International students are a significant part of the student population at Bristol, a university renowned for its high employability prospects for graduates. This is what makes Masters programs popular among international students at the University of Bristol, who widely choose the following programs:

• MSc Accounting, Finance and Management

• MSc Management (International HRM)

• MSc Immersive Technologies (Virtual and Augmented Reality)

Indian students applying for postgraduate courses at the university must be able to produce a Bachelor's degree from a recognised Indian university that is equivalent to the one in the UK. A First Class is ideally preferred for most Masters courses.

_{Related Source: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/international/countries/india.html}

5. University of Warwick

Figuring among the top 10 universities in the UK for Masters, the University of Warwick offers quality education in the 3 major streams of Engineering, Arts, and Medicine. The university focuses on imparting students with the necessary skills for employment and the international job market. International students have a huge demand for the following courses at the University of Warwick:

• MSc Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation

• MSc Programme and Project Management

• MSc Supply Chain and Logistics Management

The university expects students appearing for Masters programs to have obtained an undergraduate qualification from any background relevant to the subject of study from a recognised university overseas. They must also secure an overall 7.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form as proof of English language proficiency.

_{Related Source: https://www.wbs.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/management/requirements/}

Students applying for Masters courses at the University of Warwick can find help from some of the below study tips:

• Ensure that your notes at the end of each week are up to date. This would help you stay in touch with the studies completed every week.

• Keep a consistent routine, particularly for your physical and mental health, to help you manage stress better.

• Maintain a gratitude journal and a to-do planner that helps you stay organised.

6. University of Leeds

One of the best institutions for Masters in the UK for international students , the University of Leeds offers a high student satisfaction rate. Equipped with top education and sports facilities, the university welcomes students from more than 130 countries. Those applying for Masters courses can choose from among the following:

• MSc Accounting and Finance MSc Paediatric Dentistry

• MSc International Marketing Management

The university expects its international students to secure at least 65% in a Bachelor’s course for 3-4 years and an overall 6.5 on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.leeds.ac.uk/admissions-qualifications/19573/india}

University of Leeds offers a Buddy program for all international students, offering advice and support in their first weeks of travel to the city for a hassle-free stay and university experience. Students are encouraged to make use of this facility.

7. University of Glasgow

Established in 1451, the University of Glasgow is among the top proud 100 rankers in the world as per QS World University Rankings 2023. It is also the fourth-oldest provider of higher education in the country. Some of its most popular Masters programs are as follows:

• MAcc International Accounting and Financial Management

• MSc Media Management

• MSc International Strategic Marketing

Students applying for any of these programs must have completed their undergraduate course in a relevant area of study from a recognised university abroad. The minimum score expected at the Bachelor’s level is an Upper Second Class. Those students whose native language is not English must obtain an overall 7.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.gla.ac.uk/colleges/arts/graduateschool/prospectivestudents/researchstudy/howtoapply/entryrequirements/}

8. Durham University

One of the oldest study institutions in the UK, the University of Durham has been in existence since 1832 and is a perfect blend of modern values and rich cultural heritage attributed to its location adjacent to a medieval world heritage site. Nearly 18,000 international students arrive at the university every year for higher education. Some of the most sought-after Masters programs at the university are:

• MSc Marketing

• MA Education

• MSc Finance (Accounting and Finance)

International students who apply for postgraduate taught courses must have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised study institution. In addition, they must adhere to the requirements for English proficiency, which is a minimum of 6.0 IELTS.

_{Related Source: https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/}

The university organises guided tours and open days for international students to familiarise them with campus life at Durham.

9. University of Southampton

With more than 300 degree programs for students from all parts of the world, the University of Southampton is one of the most prestigious institutions in the UK. International students find the below-mentioned courses the most valuable at the university:

• MSc Accounting and Finance

• MA Global Media Management

• MSc Marketing Management

Some of the most commonly accepted admission criteria for Masters courses are a completed Bachelor’s course for at least 3-4 years in a related area of study from any institution recognised overseas and a minimum of 6.0 in IELTS proficiency.

_{Related Source: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/economics/postgraduate/entry_requirements.page}

International students at the university are advised to consider crucial aspects such as course funding and accommodation before arriving in Southampton for studies. You may contact your study-abroad expert for more assistance on this.

10. University of Birmingham

UK's first civic university, the University of Birmingham, is a proud global study institution established in 1900 and the first to accept students from all ethnic backgrounds and religions into the UK. The university offers a wide array of Masters courses, some of which are:

• MSc Financial Management

• MSc Business Analytics

• MSc International Business

Though the entry requirements for each program may vary, some of the most commonly accepted admission criteria for international students at the University of Birmingham are listed below:

• Completion of a Bachelor’s degree or an international equivalent qualification from a recognised university overseas for at least 3 years

• Submission of all official academic transcripts with English translation to the University of Birmingham for review

• At least 6.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form as acceptable proof of English proficiency

_{Related Source: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/apply/international-entry-requirements}

11. University of St Andrews

Scotland's first-ever university, the University of St Andrews, has been in existence since 1410. Today, the university has evolved into a modern learning space for students from around the world. The university's following Masters programs are the most popular:

• MSc in Finance and Management

• MSc in Finance

• MSc in Banking and Finance

Only students with a Bachelor's degree with Honours or an international equivalent qualification are considered for admission to Masters programs at the University of St Andrews. The requirements may vary sometimes depending on the program applied for.

_{Related Source: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/entry/india/}

To know more about life as a Masters student at the University of St Andrews, you may speak to our study-abroad expert. They will share some of the best tips for a seamless experience at the university and in the city.

12. University of Nottingham

Among the top 15 universities in the UK is the University of Nottingham, renowned for its world-class research and innovation facilities for students. The university also offers complete assistance in internships and job placements upon course completion. There are several courses offered at the postgraduate level. Among the top 10 Masters courses in the UK are the following list of programs delivered at the University of Nottingham:

• MSc Accounting and Finance

• MSc Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

• MSc Finance and Investment

Postgraduate course applicants at the university generally need to submit a completed Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university overseas. For some programs, prior relevant work experience may also be required. IELTS requirements define 6.0 as the minimum score for eligibility to apply for Masters courses.

_{Related Source: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/international-applicants/english-language.aspx}

Before moving to the UK to study at the University of Nottingham, it might be helpful to bear in mind the following:

• Make sure to get a part-time job. The UK allows international students to work for up to 20 hours per week. This would help you finance your course fee and cost of living in the country.

• Make sure to create a bank account at the earliest, especially if you’re going to start earning soon.

13. University of Sheffield

Offering a complete experience to its students, the University of Sheffield offers the best-in-class research and education facilities, along with hosting student events, student clubs, and student volunteer groups. Here are some of the most notable Masters courses offered by the University of Sheffield:

• MSc Creative and Cultural Industries Management

• MSc Marketing Management Practice

• MA Global Journalism

The university requires international students to hold a reputed Bachelor's degree from a recognised overseas university. In addition, students whose native language is not English are also required to score at least 6.0 on the IELTS Test Report Form to be considered eligible for a Masters program of their choice.

_{Related Source: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/international/entry-requirements#:~:text=Holders%20of%20a%20good%20bachelor,may%20consider%202%3A2%20grades.}

14. Newcastle University

Situated in the north-eastern part of the country, Newcastle University thrives on research and offers around 400 Masters-level degree programs in a wide range of subjects. A few examples include:

• MA Linguistics

• MA Media and Public Relations

• MSc Accounting, Finance and Financial Analysis

To be considered eligible for a Masters program at the university, you must have an undergraduate qualification with a minimum of 60% from a renowned university. The Bachelor's degree may be in any stream of study. Additionally, you must have scored at least 6.5 as an IELTS eligible score for applying to the university.

_{Related Source: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/international/country/india/#entryrequirements}

15. Lancaster University

The last on the list of top universities for Masters in the UK is Lancaster University, a public research institution hosting students from more than 120 countries worldwide. The university offers the following postgraduate courses to international students:

• MSc Accounting and Financial Management

• MSc Finance

• MSc Marketing

Students who wish to apply for a Masters-level degree program at Lancaster University must have a Bachelor’s qualification for at least 3 years. The minimum aggregate score must be a minimum of 60%. At least 6.5 is also required on the IELTS Test Report Form.

_{Related Source: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/study/entry-requirements/postgraduate-qualifications/}

As an international student on campus at Lancaster University, make sure to avail all of the exclusive student facilities and services offered. Connect with as many fellow students and seniors as possible, and make sure to ask questions when in doubt.

Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2024?countries=gb

FAQs

1. What IELTS score is required for a Masters at UK universities?
Different Masters programs at different UK universities may have different criteria for admission. However, most UK universities accept international students with at least 6.0 or higher on the IELTS Test Report Form.

2. Can I get a job after completing Masters in a UK university?
Yes, completing a Master's degree in a UK university can enhance your employment prospects. Many students find job opportunities after graduating from a UK university.

3. What is the average course duration for a Masters in UK universities?
This may vary as per the curriculum design. The average length of the program at most UK universities is between 9 months and 12 months.

4. What is the cost of pursuing a Master's in the UK for international students?
The actual fee structure may vary from one university to the other. However, the average cost of a Masters program pursued at a top UK university is estimated between GBP 15,000 and GBP 28,000 per year.

5. What are the popular Masters programs in UK universities?
UK universities offer a host of Masters degrees, which are very popular among international students. Some of these are:

• University of Edinburgh

• University of Manchester

• King’s College London

6. Is a gap year considered during admission to the Masters program in the UK?
Most UK universities generally accept a study gap of around 2-5 years, provided the student can submit a convincing application detailing the reason for the gap.

_{Updated on Dec 17, 2024}

• Masters in Public Health in UK

• MSC in Business Analytics in UK

• Masters in Data Science in UK

• MBA in Healthcare Management in UK

• Masters in Psychology in UK

• Masters of Law (LLM) in UK

• Masters in Marketing in UK

• Masters in Engineering Management in UK

• Business Schools in London

• Masters in Architecture in UK

• Interior Designing in UK

• Masters in Computer Science in UK

Our Popular Study Abroad Destinations

Study in USA | Study in Canada | Study in UK | Study in Australia | Study in New Zealand | Study in Ireland