Postgraduate Pathway

The Postgraduate Pathway Advantage

A CRIC postgraduate pathway provides you with valuable insight into postgraduate-level studies in the UK. Most importantly, it will equip you with the appropriate knowledge and skills you need to excel in your chosen taught Master’s degree.

The postgraduate pathway is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds who:

  • require additional English language training
  • come from a different academic environment to that of the UK
  • have been away from studies for a period of time
  • are looking to fine-tune skills already gained during undergraduate studies, employment or both

If you fall into any of the above categories, choosing the postgraduate pathway at CRIC is the right decision.

The Pre-Master’s pathway will prepare you for future postgraduate studies by giving you confidence and expertise in areas relevant to your taught Master’s degree. You will:

  • develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of the basic principles relevant to your chosen degree
  • develop basic numerical techniques, research methodologies and ICT, presentation and communication skills
  • gain a competent set of transferable skills that will help you in your academic
    • studies and future career, and enable you to make informed decisions
  • attain the necessary level of language competence specific to your chosen field of study
Pathways Duration Intakes Structure Assessment

Pathway: Pre-Sessional Learning Skills and Communication II

12 weeks

September, January and June

This pre-sessional semester comprises four modules designed to improve your English Language ability to Level B2, or higher, and emplace vital study skills. Teaching is tailored towards your chosen postgraduate pathway, so you are prepared for subsequent studies while improving your communicative abilities.

Assessment is via a mix of examination, coursework, essays and other written a ssignments. Coursework may include problem-solving activities, consultancy projects, presentations, business simulations and individual and group reports.

Pre-Master’s (Stage 1)

One semester

September, January and June

While studying at CRIC, students will cover a series of modules that will prepare them for a seamless progression to their chosen taught Master’s degree. All modules include core academic skills relevant to postgraduate study.

Assessment for most modules is continuous, and includes tests, assignments and a dissertation. Most modules have a final two-hour examination.

Master’s (Stage 2)

One year - 18 months

September and January

The Master’s (Stage 2) offers students the chance to build on what they have learned during the Pre-Master’s and extend their professional understanding about their relevant area of study. A taught Master’s degree usually consists of a series of specialist modules in structured class, seminar or tutorial formats. A research thesis component may be included, but is much shorter than what is required for a Master’s degree by research. However, most taught masters’ degrees will have a final major project or dissertation component.

Modules will be assessed be via exams, assignments, essays, or seminar performance (group or individual presentations). Assessment may also include projects that can be completed either as part of a group or individually. For most masters’ degrees, preparing and submitting a major project or dissertation will form a large part of the assessment and final grade.