York St John University

York St John University is a highly rated higher education institution in the north of England, having placed 10th in the 2022 Whatuni Student Choice Awards. It offers a wide range of postgraduate programmes across a number of disciplines, all from its highly sustainable campus in the historic city of York. 

The university’s history stretches back to 1841, when it was founded as a college with just a single student to its name. It has grown from strength to strength since, having achieved university status in 2006 before gaining degree awarding powers for research qualifications. 

The university made up of four faculties, which are: 

• Faculty of Arts 
• Faculty of Business 
• Faculty of Education and Theology 
• Faculty of Health and Life Sciences 

Postgraduate students at York St John are able to complete their studies in a historic campus that blends heritage architecture and gardens with modern, sustainable learning spaces. With exceptional green credentials, cutting-edge facilities and a range of amenities on-site, it’s the perfect place for students to push their academic boundaries and achieve their potential. 

York is one of the UK’s most historic cities, from its stunning York Minster to the medieval walls that ring the city. The world-famous shambles, along with an endless number of pubs, bars and restaurants make it an ideal place to spend time and relax, while close to the city the North York Moors and stunning north east coast are perfect for daytrips. 

York St John University maintains a comprehensive range of postgraduate programmes, suited to students of various levels and disciplines. The university’s study pathways suit diverse goals, whether learners are looking to prepare for an academic career, boost their employability or simply build expertise in their field. 

Postgraduate taught courses at available at St John, including MA and MSc qualifications, among others. Students will be able to study through seminars, lectures, assignments and practical work, in some cases. Placements may a key component for some students, depending on their field. 

It’s also possible to study a postgraduate research degree at the university. This might be a master’s by research or a doctoral programme such as an MPhil or PhD. Through these programmes, students will delve into their chosen area and conduct robust research with the personal support of an academic supervisor. 

The university is committed to offering a modern, flexible approach to postgraduate education. As a result, it offers the opportunity to study part time or entirely online, allowing students to gain empowering qualifications from a leading university without having to uproot their existing lives. 

York St John University offers places on its postgraduate programmes to prospective students who meet the entry requirements. To ensure applicants are suited for their chosen course, admissions may be granted based on academic, professional or personal experience and characteristics. 

For example, students applying for the MA in Applied Theatre will need to demonstrate achievement of an undergraduate honours degree in any subject area, at a 2:2 level or above. 

Applicants for the MSc in Leadership and Management will typically have an undergraduate honours degree at 2:2 level or higher, in a related subject. Applicants with alternative qualifications will be considered in light of relevant professional experience. 

Students applying for the DCounsPsy in Counselling Psychology should have a previous degree at 2:1 level, in psychology, from a course accredited by the BPS. Applicants from other academic backgrounds are also considered if they can demonstrate sufficient professional competency through experience. 

Entry requirements may change between intakes and will vary according to the subject and level of study being applied to. Students can check for the most up to date information on the university website. 

York St. John succeeds in achieving positive graduate outcomes for its students in a variety of ways. Through a clear focus on networking connections, professional skills and real-world experience, the university achieved a further study or graduate employment rate of over 95% (within 15 months) according to the 2021 Higher Education Graduate Outcomes Survey. 

Students at St John can access a comprehensive range of careers services through LaunchPad, the university’s dedicated employability service. Students can access a range of helpful resources and initiatives, including: 

• Personalised, one-on-one appointments with experienced career counsellors 
• Dedicated employer events, ranging from specific workshops or presentation events to well-attended jobs fairs 
• Training sessions around key skills, such as CV building or using LinkedIn successfully 
• Help in finding internships and placements, as well as continued support 
• Access to international working or study opportunities 
• Access to additional work experience and volunteering opportunities 

Students can continue to access careers support for the rest of their lives after graduation. 

Accommodation

Postgraduate students at York St John can enjoy a guaranteed place in university-managed accommodation if they apply by the specified deadlines. The university offers various options for learners, including various room types, prices and facilities to suit every preference. 

Much of the university’s accommodation is located centrally in York, giving students almost instant access to all the everyday amenities such as shops and green spaces. In addition to that, students are at the heart of the city’s vibrant landscape, nestled up to historic sites and modern spaces alike, where culture, food, entertainment and art come together. That’s not the mention the buzzing university social scene, and transport connections to the countryside and other parts of the UK. 

Students can choose from en-suite or shared facility rooms, in apartments or houses ranging in size. Contracts are typically 41 weeks in length. 

For students who prefer to rent private accommodation, there are plenty of options to suit groups of friends, individual renters or students who have families. The university’s accommodation team can provide advice and support in securing the best accommodation possible.  

Postgraduate students at York St John University can access a wide range of funding options. Scholarships and bursaries are available to help students meet the cost of their study, be recognised for their achievements, or enable access to education in difficult circumstances. 

Some of the scholarships and bursaries that are available include: 

• Progression scholarships, which provide discounts to tuition fees for postgraduate students who are moving on from undergraduate study at the university or one of its partner institutions. The value of this scholarship varies depending on previous academic performance, with 2:2 students receiving a 20% reduction in tuition fees while 1st class honours students will receive a 50% discount 
• The university also offers a number of research scholarships, which may be offered for work on a particular project or in response to an application and research proposal. It’s also possible to secure research funding through associated bodies, such as research councils, and external organisations. 
• Students can explore a wide range of external funding options, which are offered by organisations such as companies, charities, trusts and foreign governments. 

Students can explore the university’s website, as well as other online search tools, to apply to the full range of scholarships and bursaries available.