Postgraduate study can unlock a world of possibilities – and give you the time and space to pursue your passion.

Whether you want to open doors or expand your mind, postgraduate study could be what you're looking for. A postgraduate degree on your CV can help you stand out in a noisy job market, and it could boost your earning potential, too.

Here are our top five reasons to choose postgraduate study:

1. Go deeper

If at graduation you still have burning questions about your field, postgraduate study gives you the chance to feed your curiosity. You’ll be able to challenge yourself and focus on subjects that really fascinate you – in a community of inquisitive, like-minded students.

“The biggest highlight was having the opportunity to take the topic I was interested in and study it in depth. It ignited a passion for study and my time at Bath Spa gave me a solid foundation to pursue further research. It has also opened up other career avenues such as lecturing, training and research...”
— Ruth Smith, MA Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice

2. Invest in your future

Completing a Master’s could mean you earn more in your chosen career. In fact, research by the Sutton Trust suggests postgraduates can earn £200,000 more than graduates across their working lives. And the Department for Education found that postgraduates’ salaries are higher in all subject areas compared with undergraduates. 

3. Become a thought-leader

Publishers and performers. Filmmakers and entrepreneurs. Classroom pioneers and business leaders. Through postgraduate study, you’ll build connections with some of the brightest minds – whether in the lecture theatre, seminar room, studio, or outside university, through networking and industry events.

4. Choose a career path

Perhaps you’ve got your sights set on a dream career? Or maybe you’re at a crossroads, looking for a fresh direction? Either way, many postgraduates use their degree to gain the specialist skills and professional qualifications needed for a specific role.

5. Gain specialist knowledge

Hone your research skills. Work alongside world-leading scholars. Make a mark in your field of study. There’s no doubt postgraduate study expands your mind and deepens your knowledge of a subject. And, for some, it’s a springboard to a career in academia.

Want to study at Bath Spa?

If you've already graduated from Bath Spa, you could be eligible for our Alumni Scholarship. Find out more about postgraduate study at Bath Spa University and register for an upcoming Open Day.