Completing a Masters with confidence

Before applying for a Masters degree at ARU, I was a little apprehensive as I did not know what it was going to entail and I had a few questions running through my head. But those worries soon melted away.

Although I was just about to complete my undergraduate degree at the time of my application, there was this thought in the back of my mind of: 'Am I going to cope?' I knew postgraduate study was going to be another step up academically, but I didn’t know how hard it was going to be.

Although I had been at ARU for three years already, there was this other question I had which was about paying my fees – as postgraduate finance is different to undergraduate.

I knew I would still receive some support in the form of student finance. I knew I had to pay my tuition fees this time round and I would need money for me to live, to go towards my rent and living costs.

As soon as I started my Masters degree, everything fell into place. I got a payment plan set up through the University and, even though I had spent some time thinking about my budget, I could take that pressure away.

My advice to anyone considering an MA or MSc would be to speak to your lecturers about the course content and focus. Make sure it is something that appeals to you and it's what you’re passionate about.

In regards to finances, our Money Advice Team is always on hand to help students progress from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

I am still in the midst of my MA journey, but I know that studying here for three years beforehand has given me the best set-up. It's let me go on and complete an MA with confidence.

If you're interested in postgraduate study, like Shannon, you can choose from more than 100 Masters degrees at ARU. Browse courses or come and explore at our next Open Evening.