If you're considering studying a master's course in London, hear from St Mary's student, Meron, as she shares advice on why the capital is a great choice for postgraduate study.
If you're thinking about further study in London, you’re probably asking yourself two questions – is it worth it, and why London?
I know I did when I made my decision.
Why choose a master's course in London?
For me, choosing to pursue a master's degree in London wasn't just a random decision. I spent a lot of time researching before deciding to come here, and it was worth it.
London is one of the most internationally diverse cities in the world. You could be sitting next to students and professionals from so many different countries, cultures, and career paths. This changes your master's experience, as theoretical conversations take in a multitude of diverse angles.
Outside of the classroom, being in London can give you access to international organisations, multinational corporations, NGOs, conferences, and a wide range of networking spaces that shape your study in real time and allows you to build your professional network alongside your studies.
Opportunities while studying a master's course
As well as your curriculum, the professional opportunities your master's offers will help prepare you for entering the professional world. These include placements, on-campus events, networking opportunities, and career services support.
Your postgraduate studies will help you continue building on the skills you learned during your undergraduate degree or professional experience. You'll collaborate, communicate, and test your critical thinking skills.
Another crucial skill that develops during a master's degree is applying theory to real-world situations. You're not just learning concepts, you're critiquing how these newly taught ideas impact real-world situations. This can be especially powerful for those who are already working within their field but taking the course to gain more academic depth of their specialism.
Some of the opportunities I’ve experienced during my master's include multi-agency conferences held on campus via my professors, and networking events held by organisations in the charity sector such as The Human Trafficking Foundation, Medaille Trust, The United Nations General Assembly UK, and many more.
Things to consider before signing up for a master’s in London
As well as the major benefits to pursuing postgraduate study in London, there are a few other factors to consider.
Cost of living in London
The , including rent, transport, health insurance, and daily expenses, can be higher than in many other cities. To prepare for this, I investigated things like scholarships and grants to help with the cost of living on top of saving up from a job I had prior to coming to London.
Access to events and activities
In terms of activities, many of the museums are free in London, and I have stumbled across free activities and fun places to go using social media platforms. For networking events, there are wonderful opportunities at your university, and I also enjoy using LinkedIn and Eventbrite.
Work-life balance
In terms of your personal life, you need to be prepared to find a balance between your coursework, classes, a part-time job (if you want to look for one), internships, or placement opportunities. All of this can be a lot.
Some of the ways I’ve made sure I have time for myself on top of my course load is by staying active and going on runs, finding creative outlets I can do with my housemates (like paint-by-numbers), or even doing movie nights with friends.
Adjusting to life in London
You'll also need to adjust to learning advanced material and a new academic system, as well as living in a new country, if you’re an international student like me.
However, don't forget that you're not alone in your journey. You have a team of people behind you, including your lecturers, advisors, classmates, and even people who you meet outside of university, to support your adjustment to university life in London. Plus, all the memories you create during your time in London will last with you for a lifetime!
It can feel overwhelming at times, but don't let that discourage you. Growth takes effort, as you are stepping out of your comfort zone.
Why I chose St Mary’s University London
During my search for a master's course, one of the universities that stood out to me was St Mary’s University.
St Mary’s website emphasised high-quality teaching and a personalised support approach, which is hard to find in bigger institutions.
I also enjoy the difference from the large lecture halls I experience in my undergraduate to smaller, more interactive, classroom sizes. It allows my classmates and I to engage in more meaningful discussions, share ideas about what we have learnt in class, take time asking questions, and learn about what our class topics look like in each other’s countries.
I also enjoy being based in . The area provides a calming atmosphere while allowing me to focus on my studies, but I am still able to enjoy a day trip to Central London with my friends whenever we have the time.
The University also does an excellent job in providing on campus for any student to participate in, so there's never a dull moment.
For the international students on campus, there's a plethora of on offer, making sure you're taken care of while studying at St Mary’s. From the international team, academic advisers, and student advisors, there's always someone available to help you adjust to life in London and attending a new school.
A reminder of the benefits of studying a master’s in London
If you decide to take the leap and study in London, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your chosen field while strengthening your professional credibility.
It can open doors to new industries, career progression, and specialist roles, with your faculty there to support you every step of the way.
During your master’s, the connections you make can shape your career before you even graduate. Exposure to global organisations can also lead to opportunities you may not have considered before, offering new perspectives along the way.
By the end, you’ll be able to look back on everything you’ve achieved during your time in London – and that’s something truly priceless.
Choosing a master's course in London
If you’re feeling inspired to take the next step and study a master’s course in London, St Mary’s University offers a wide range of postgraduate degrees across subjects including , , , , and .
Whether you’re looking to build on your undergraduate degree, specialise in a particular area, or take your career in a new direction, there’s a course designed to support your goals.