Course overview
Prepare for the demands of postgraduate study at Oxford Brookes.
Prepare comprehensively for postgraduate study through academic English, research, writing, seminar skills and a chosen subject specialism.
Course overview
This two-semester diploma is for international students who need additional academic preparation, want to change subject, are returning after a study break or wish to improve academic English before a Master's. Study skills and language development combine with a specialist module related to the intended degree.
Course structure
Published duration: 24 weeks across 2 semesters. Modules are organised below by semester, status or pathway choice.
Location and delivery
Teaching is full-time and based at Headington Campus in Oxford.
Curriculum
Explore the published modules in a clear course structure.
01Semester 1 — compulsory modules
Pre-Master's
Semester 1 — compulsory modules
Pre-Master's
- Academic Writing
- Advanced Reading and Research Skills
- Advanced Seminar and Interview Skills
- Managing Yourself
02Semester 2 — compulsory modules
Pre-Master's
Semester 2 — compulsory modules
Pre-Master's
- Extended Writing Project
- Reading and Research Skills
- Seminar and Interview Skills
03Subject specialism options
Pre-Master's
Subject specialism options
Pre-Master's
- Independent Study Module (students starting in January)
- Built Environment Subject Specialism Module
- Business, Marketing, Accounting and Hospitality Management
- Computing Specialism Module
- Humanities, Education and Publishing
- Science, Nutrition and Public Health
- Social Sciences, International Relations and Law Specialism Module
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Assessment develops academic writing, reading, research, seminar and interview performance across two semesters.
The extended writing project and specialist module prepare students for independent Master's-level work in a chosen discipline.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic entry
- A UK HND or accepted equivalent, including a Diploma of Higher Education, Chinese three-year diploma, ordinary degree or honours degree below 2:2.
- The normal minimum age is 21; younger applicants may be considered case by case.
English language
- IELTS 5.5 with 5.5 in every skill, or an accepted equivalent.
International and non-standard entry
Equivalent international qualifications and non-standard applications are considered against the current published requirements for the route.
Application documents
- Completed application form.
- Qualification certificates and transcripts, with certified translations where required.
- Evidence of English-language ability where applicable.
- Passport and immigration documents where required for international applicants.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Fees should be reconfirmed for the selected intake before enrolment.
Tuition does not normally include accommodation, living costs, travel, optional equipment, books or other personal study costs.
Funding your study
Funding for pathway programmes can differ from funding for a standard Master's degree and should be confirmed before application.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Raise academic English and postgraduate study capability across two semesters.
Build subject-specific preparation for progression to a Master's course.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Progression routes
- Master's degree progression
- Academic English development
- Postgraduate research preparation
- Subject-change preparation
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Where is this course taught?
The course is taught at Oxford Brookes University's Headington Campus in Oxford.
When can I start?
Published start months are January, September.
Who awards the qualification?
The awarding university is Oxford Brookes University.