Postgraduate taught applications

Applying for postgraduate study is straightforward. Start by checking key dates so you can submit your application on time. You’ll complete our online form with your personal details, academic history, relevant experience and a personal statement that explains your motivation for the course. You’ll also need to provide a reference and ensure you meet the entry requirements. Some courses may require extra documents, such as transcripts, certificates or professional evidence, so check your course page carefully.

When to apply

Herts accepts Postgraduate applications throughout the year, but we recommend applying as early as possible to secure your place and to allow enough time to prepare any required documents. Each course has its own entry requirements, so it’s important to review the course page before you start your application to make sure you meet the criteria.

Submitting a complete application will help us give you a decision quickly. This includes uploading any transcripts, certificates, or additional documents your course may need. Applying early also gives you more time to arrange funding, accommodation and, if relevant, visas or employer support.

How to apply

The application process varies slightly depending on whether you are a home or international student, and whether you’re applying for a taught postgraduate, research or a continuing professional development course. To apply, complete the online application form on our website and provide your personal details, academic background, relevant experience and a personal statement outlining your motivation and suitability for the course. When your application has been submitted, we will review it and contact you if we need any further information.

If you’re a Herts undergraduate with UK home fee status, it’s quick and easy to apply using our fast-track postgraduate application form. We re-use your Herts details, so there’s less for you to complete.

Personal statements

Your postgraduate personal statement is an essential part of your application. It helps us understand why you want to study the course, how your academic or professional experience has prepared you, and how postgraduate study will support your future goals. When writing your statement, focus on your reasons for choosing the course and the University of Hertfordshire, highlight any relevant experience, and share any non-academic activities – such as volunteering, hobbies, or involvement in clubs and societies – that demonstrate your strengths and interests. You’ll upload your statement as part of your application, and it should give us a clear sense of your motivation, potential and ambitions.

You can also include details about your work experience, either by uploading a CV or listing up to three employers with their company names and addresses. This additional information can help strengthen your application, especially if your experience supports your suitability for the course.

References

A reference is required as part of your application, so make sure your chosen referee is happy to support you and that their contact details are correct. Please provide their official institutional or work email, as this helps our admissions team verify the reference quickly. It’s also helpful to let your referee know which course you’re applying for and why, so they can tailor their comments. Most courses only require one reference, but some may require two.

Entry requirements

Many of our postgraduate study options have specific entry requirements which can be seen on our course pages.

Most taught master’s degrees require an honours degree or equivalent qualification, and we may also consider relevant higher-level study or professional experience for advanced entry.

For research degrees, you would normally need a first-class or upper-second-class honours degree in the subject area, although we can also consider applicants who demonstrate capability through publications or significant professional responsibilities.

International applicants usually need an IELTS score of 6.5 for research programmes, alongside meeting any subject-specific requirements.

Additional requirements

Some postgraduate courses require you to upload academic transcripts or certificates to support your application. If needed, you can provide clear images taken on your phone or scanned copies, ensuring you include both the front and back of each document. If you don’t hold formal qualifications, you can state this in your application. Some courses will also consider relevant non-academic experience as part of the admissions process. After submitting your application, you can email our Ask Herts team with any additional evidence, remembering to include your name and application number in the subject line.

You may also be asked to meet additional entry requirements, such as completing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This applies to programmes including MSc Nursing (Adult, Learning Disabilities or Mental Health), MSc Social Work, MSc Advancing Clinical Pharmacy Practice, and MA Art Therapy.

Always check the entry requirements on your chosen course page so you can provide all necessary documents and avoid delays in processing your application.