You might have done some subject research already, and you’ll probably have a career path in mind, but it’s not just about what to study – where and how are also major factors to consider.
Whether you’re looking at taught or research courses:
- find out what’s on offer
- weigh up the pros and cons of each study option to find out which suits you
- see how you can fit postgrad study around your lifestyle
- talk to staff, lecturers, sponsors, and student ambassadors to find out what life as a postgrad is like
Don’t worry if you can’t attend in person – many unis offer web chats, coffee mornings, and open evenings, as well as postgrad study fairs across the UK, EU, and international venues.
Postgraduate teacher training programmes have a unique application process, with set deadlines depending on where you want to study – find out about training to teach in the UK.
Types of postgraduate open day
Check which type of open day best suits your needs before booking to attend.
1. General postgraduate open day
General postgraduate open days offer a wealth of information and advice about postgrad study, the types of programmes offered across the university, and student finance and funding advice. You can tour the campus, libraries, research facilities, lecture theatres, and accommodation.
Staff, graduate advisers, and members of the students’ union will be on hand to answer any questions.
2. Subject-specific postgraduate open day
If you know which subject area you want to study, but still have questions, a subject-specific open day could be best for you.
You’ll be able to:
- speak with the subject experts and academics who teach that subject
- compare taught and research programmes
- discover international study opportunities
- hear from current postgrad students
- find out about subject-related bursaries or scholarships
- find out which employers the provider works with
3. Departmental postgraduate open day
Individual departments often run their own open days, so you can discuss your personal study needs and career aspirations in detail with relevant lecturers and academics.
This provides an ideal opportunity to:
- meet supervisors to discuss subject-specific insights, theories, and concepts
- understand module details and content
- get examples of personal study plans and assignments
- find out about the weekly study timetable
- take part in group discussions and forums