Postgraduate study – Helping you manage the step up!
Published on 6 October 16
Joining the University as a postgraduate, you may have found that the jump between undergrad and postgrad expectations can be quite big. We guide you through this shift and how to make sure you do your best.
Academic Expectations
Be pro-active: Master’s study requires a more self-directed mind set and more independent learning. Be prepared to actively participate in your seminars, read widely and form your own opinions. You are not expected to agree with everything your lecturer or other students say but to come to your own conclusion, through close listening and discussion with others, wide and careful reading and critically thinking about a range of perspectives.
Ask questions and speak up: Taking an active approach to your learning can include asking a lecturer to clarify a point, asking classmates to expand their comments and putting across your own views.
Even if you feel anxious about it, interacting with your fellow students and course staff is a great way to clarify what you think and worthwhile practice in expressing your thoughts and demonstrating your knowledge. If you don’t know something, chances are others won’t either. They will probably be very glad if someone asks a seemingly basic question. You will get used it!
Academic conventions and Plagiarism
Your knowledge and understanding will be based on the works of others in your discipline. You need to be able to present and discuss the ideas and findings of others in your own wordsand attribute sources accurately. Directly copying the words of others is not acceptable.
If you’re new to the University, it’s important to make sure you know about the plagiarism rules at Manchester as they could be very different to at your previous institution. Before writing your first essay, familiarise yourself with the correct referencing system so when you begin reading you record all your information correctly. One of the main reasons students get penalised for plagiarising is that they don’t know the rules and commit it by accident, so it is important to make sure you know the rules, as not knowing the rules is not an excuse.
It is also important to be aware that your essays must be entirely your own work. This means you can talk to other students about what you are doing but the essay and argument you present must be thought up individually. Unless explicitly stated, all Master’s assignments must be your individual work.
Even as a postgraduate its worth a look at the learning essentials guides to referencing and plagiarism.
Managing your workload
One of the main changes between postgraduate and undergraduate study is the work load, especially how much you are expected to read. As an undergrad you could often get away with reading a couple of things off the reading list, but as a Master’s student you are expected to do much more - especially given the seminar system which means that if you haven’t done the reading, you’ll have no idea what’s going on.
You will need to manage your time, so that you can attend classes and seminars and find time for all the associated course reading. Plan well and give yourself enough time for revising, planning and writing assignments. Cramming rarely works at postgraduate level, due to the volume and depth of study material.
Coping with study stress
The challenges of postgraduate study may cause some worry and stress at times – as you’re getting to grips with a new university, completing assignments or wrestling with your dissertation or project. However, there are things you can do to plan for busy times and there is lots of support available.
Take a break! Planning to take breaks will help keep you motivated and refreshed, aiding your ability to study and learn. Stay in touch with your friends and family. It’s very easy to become isolated when you’re so focussed on studying.
Make sure you eat well and if it’s your thing exercise regularly (and if it isn’t – why not try, even a brisk walk can really help). Sporticipate is the University’s free sporting activities – take a look and see how you can get involved.
Make the most of it – and enjoy!
A Master’s year is study intensive, so make the most of your time.If there’s something you’ve always wanted to try – seeing if there’s a society for it. It’s a great way to meet friends and feel settled here in Manchester.
It is also a great time to work on skills and experience you might need for your career. The Careers Service has dedicated support for Master’s students, and as you’ve only got a year it’s never too early to think about your next steps.
There will also be plenty of support from your school to help you develop the skills needed and My Learning Essentials is the Library’s skills development programme. It offers support on everything from wellbeing and managing stress to presentation skills and critical thinking through online resources and workshop sessions.
Above all remember you have been accepted on your course because you are capable of undertaking the challenge. If things seem a little daunting take a break and if necessary seek advice and guidance from your School student support team or see the website for other sources of support.