Pre-master's courses

“I can see I’m making exceptional progress in terms of how to conduct research, how to put together a research paper, the proper unbiased way of analysis and the generation of results. This pre-masters course also focuses on how to improve my presentation skills and guides us on proper discussion and group interaction, helping me connect with people from all over the world.”

Ousama Zahr - Lebanon, Pre-Master’s followed by MSc Management and Entrepreneurship

Find out more about Pre-Master's courses

What Pre-Master’s courses are available?

There are four Pre-Master’s courses offered by Oxford Brookes. All of the programmes focus on improving study skills and content knowledge.

The Pre-Master’s Diploma is studied across two semesters (24 weeks) from January to August, or September to May. Applicants are required to hold IELTS level 5.5 (with 5.5 in each skill).
The Two Year Master’s is a Pre-Master’s Diploma (24 weeks) followed by direct entry onto a master’s. Entry is from January to August, or September to May. Applicants are required to hold IELTS level 5.5 (with 5.5 in each skill). You only need one visa and one application for the entire course.
The Pre-Master’s Certificate: English Language and Study Skills is studied across one semester (12 weeks), from January to May, or May to August. Applicants are required to hold IELTS level 6 (with 5.5 in each skill).
The Pre-Master’s Certificate: Study Skills is studied across one semester (12 weeks), from January to May. Applicants are required to hold IELTS level 7, because this programme is designed for native (or near-native) English speakers.

Please refer to the individual course pages for more information on entry requirements.

Which Pre-Master’s course do I need to take, and how do I apply?

The Pre-Master’s course you should take will depend on your current academic level and the master’s course you are applying for. We would encourage you to submit an application for your choice of course so our Admissions team can complete an assessment.

If you opt to apply for direct entry to your choice of master’s but don’t meet the entry requirements, our Admissions team may make an alternative offer for one of our Pre-Master’s courses. You will then start your master’s after successful completion of the Pre-Master’s at the required grades.

Please refer to the individual course pages for more information on entry requirements. For assistance with your application contact our admissions team on admissions@brookes.ac.uk.

What is the difference between a Pre-Master’s and a Two Year Master’s?

The Pre-Master’s Certificate and Diploma programmes are designed to improve your academic level and can help you meet the entry requirements of your chosen master’s. The applications are made separately and you will need individual visas for the Pre-Master’s and master’s courses.

The Two Year Master’s is a single programme, with a Pre-Master’s and master’s combined. This programme is suitable for those who already meet the degree requirements of their chosen master’s, but wish to improve their study skills before starting their master’s. You will need one application and one visa.

Can I study a Pre-Master’s course online?

No, all Pre-Master’s courses are studied on-campus.

What happens after the Pre-Master’s?

A Pre-Master’s course will prepare you for a master's degree in many subject areas. Following successful completion of the Pre-Master’s at the required grades, you will be able to progress onto your master’s. Some master's degrees may have further requirements such as work experience or a portfolio. Individual course pages will outline any further entry requirements, and if a Pre-Master’s is a possible pathway onto the course.