University of Derby

The University of Derby is a contemporary, progressive higher education institution that stands out for its research-focused, applied approach to postgraduate study. The university is nationally competitive, having placed 67th in the 2022 Whatuni Student Choice Awards, as well as taking 100th place in the Complete University Guide 2024 league table. 

The university’s campus is spread across multiple sites in the city of Derby, making it a great place for students who want to live in a vibrant city while they pursue their qualification. Each site is easily connected by foot or a dedicated university bus service, making it easy to get between academic facilities, student accommodation or the union. Derby is noted for the wealth of technically advanced and industry-standard facilities that it offers students of various disciplines, preparing them for success in their career. 

Derby is located in the East Midlands and is known for its high quality of living. With low costs for accommodation, essentials and entertainment, combined with a strong local economy and a vibrant city culture, it’s no surprise that the city is popular with students. It’s also amongst the highest rated cities in the UK for nightlife, with a range of great clubs and bars across town. The Peak District National Park is just a short way away, while other major cities like London and Birmingham are easily reached by train. 

Postgraduate students are well-catered for at the University of Derby, with a variety of innovative and results-focused programmes available across dozens of subjects. 

The university seeks to provide a modern, flexible approach to postgraduate learning – part-time study patterns, flexible course structures, and contact hours that can be delivered both in-person and online, are just some of the reflections of this. 

Courses at Derby are often oriented around empowering students towards academic or professional success. This is driven through course curricula that are managed by experienced teachers, often with industry links or experience in the sector. Research students are encouraged to challenge themselves and make the most of the university’s cutting-edge facilities, allowing them to contribute to Derby’s globally impactful research outputs. 

There are a wide range of qualification types to be had at Derby. Students looking to move effectively into a successful career can explore postgraduate certificates and diplomas, along with CPD short courses that make it an equally good destination for professionals looking to reach the next level. 

Various full master’s degrees are available, from taught qualifications such as MA and MSc to research-focused qualifications like the MRes. Both are excellent preparations for graduate roles, or a doctoral qualification like an MPhil or PhD. 

Students will need to satisfy the entry requirements for their chosen postgraduate course at the University of Derby before they’ll be able to begin their studies. These eligibility criteria are typically academic in nature, but also include evaluation of professional experience, portfolios or work or interview performance. 

For example, students who apply for the MA in Dramatherapy will need to have an undergraduate degree in a related discipline, such as drama, theatre arts, psychology, social work or nursing. Theatre experience is required in lieu of a drama related qualification, while all applicants will need to demonstrate a year or more of full-time work experience in a health or social care setting. 

MSc Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering students will need to have an undergraduate degree at 2:2 level or above, in a relevant engineering or science discipline. Equivalent professional experience or qualifications will be considered where students do not meet this academic requirement. 

Applicants for the EdD Doctor of Education will typically have a master’s degree at a good level in a relevant academic discipline, as well as at least two years’ experience in professional practice. 

Entry requirements may change over time. 

Postgraduate students at the University of Derby enjoy strong graduate employment or further study rates, and benefit from the university’s strong reputation for producing graduates who are prepared for professional success. 

Through access to cutting-edge facilities that meet current industry standards, as well as ample opportunities for applied learning and professional experience, Derby postgraduate students are able to transition seamlessly into their target sector and have an influence on their field. 

The university also maintains a careers and employment service that supports students in achieving their professional goals. A range of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and services are provided, including: 

• Workshops for improving CV writing and application skills 
• An employee mentoring scheme, where students can get guidance from real professionals in their target industry 
• Jobs fairs, networking events and employer-specific sessions 
• Links to internships, placements and relevant voluntary opportunities 

Derby is always looking for further ways to build innovative academic pathways for students in an increasingly competitive global jobs market. Through the provision of courses that go beyond the classroom and incorporate sandwich years, employee-linked projects or placements, students can build the foundation of a successful career before they graduate. 

Accommodation

Postgraduate students at the University of Derby can choose from a range of university-managed halls, found on or near the campus, as well as all kinds of suitable private accommodation around the city. 

Flamsteed Court is an exclusively postgraduate and mature student hall of residence, located next to the Kedleston Road site of the campus. It’s a peaceful, leafy suburban location where students can live in one of 30 two-bedroom apartments, allowing them to focus on their studies and make meaningful connections. With en-suite rooms, a kitchen and free parking, it also has easy access to key facilities like the students’ union, sports centre and library. 

It's also possible for postgraduates to live in the rest of the university’s halls of residence, in shared flats that vary in size. All of the university’s living options are consistent in their high standards of comfort and quality, safe sites and proximity to university facilities. 

Some postgraduate students may prefer to rent private accommodation. The university maintains a list of approved accommodation options, making it easy for students to find a property be confident in having a quality, good value place to live. Derby is a very affordable, safe and fun place for students to live, and is home to properties of all types in various parts of the city. 

The University of Derby provides postgraduate students with access to all kinds of scholarships and bursaries. These funding options are a great way to reduce the cost of tuition or receive direct payments to put towards educational or lifestyle costs. 

Some of the scholarships and bursaries that are available include: 

• The University of Derby alumni discount, which is available for students on a postgraduate course who have already graduated from a degree at the university. It provides a 25% reduction to tuition fees for the first year of study. 
• Studentship funding for postgraduate research degree students. Full or part funding are available to students on specific courses, which can be competitive. 
• Students on a teaching training or PGCE course can access a number of bursaries, which are paid directly to students and vary in value according to the grade achieved in their first degree. 

The full range of scholarships and bursaries available can be found on the university’s website. Students can also explore a wide range of funding options provided through external organisations, including charities, businesses or government departments.