Kickstart Your Master’s Journey in January at the University of Plymouth — International Scholarship Schemes Available

Choosing the right time and place to begin your postgraduate journey can shape not only your academic career but also your professional future. For many international students, the University of Plymouth has become a preferred choice — and with the launch of January start master’s programmes, it has opened new doors for flexibility and opportunity.

Combine that with international scholarship schemes, and you have a winning formula for affordable, high-quality education in the UK. Whether you missed the September intake, are looking for a flexible start date, or want to take advantage of generous funding, Plymouth’s January entry is a smart pathway to success.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Why Plymouth is an excellent choice for international postgraduates

• Why a January start might be the right fit for you

• Programmes available in January 2025

• Scholarship schemes and funding support

• Common requirements and eligibility criteria

• Step-by-step guide to applying online

• Academic calendar and key dates

• Tips to strengthen your application

• A final call to action to secure your place

Why Choose the University of Plymouth?

The University of Plymouth is one of the UK’s leading modern universities, with a strong global reputation. Here’s why thousands of international students choose Plymouth each year:

• TEF Triple Gold Recognition: In 2023, the Teaching Excellence Framework awarded Plymouth Triple Gold, recognizing outstanding teaching quality, student satisfaction, and graduate outcomes.

• Industry-Driven Courses: Programmes are designed with employability in mind, connecting students with real-world projects, internships, and industry partnerships.

• Research Excellence: Plymouth is internationally recognized for research in marine sciences, health, engineering, and sustainability.

• Vibrant International Community: With students from more than 100 countries, you’ll enjoy a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming atmosphere.

• Affordable Student City: Plymouth offers lower living costs compared to other major UK student cities, making it an attractive option for international students on a budget.

Why Consider a January Start?

While September has traditionally been the main intake for UK universities, the January intake offers students flexibility and convenience.

Key Advantages of Starting in January:

• Same Degree, Different Timeline: You’ll study the exact same modules, with the same faculty, and receive the same degree as September starters. (plymouth.ac.uk)

• Catch Up or Plan Ahead: Ideal if you’ve just finished your undergraduate degree, took a study break, or missed the September deadline.

• Visa and Travel Flexibility: If you faced delays with visa processing or other barriers in autumn, January offers a second chance.

• Smaller Cohorts: January intakes often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention.

• Graduate Sooner: By choosing January, you can align your graduation with hiring cycles or career opportunities.

Which Programmes Are Available in January?

Plymouth offers a wide range of postgraduate courses across its faculties. Here are some highlights:

Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Business

• MSc Business and Management

• MSc Digital and Social Media Marketing

• MSc Finance

• MSc International Business

• MSc International Shipping

• MSc Tourism & Hospitality Management

• MSc Project Management

• MA Education

• MA International Relations: Security & Development

• MBA and MBA (Top-up)

• MSc Operations & Supply Chain Management

• MSc International Logistics & Supply Chain Management

• MA Human Resource Management

Faculty of Science & Engineering

• MSc Artificial Intelligence

• MSc Cyber Security

• MSc Data Science & Business Analytics

• MSc Electrical & Electronic Engineering

• MSc Offshore Renewable Energy Engineering

• MSc Robotics

Faculty of Health (part-time routes)

• MSc Oral Surgery

• MSc Orthodontics

• MSc Periodontology

• MSc Restorative Dentistry

• MSc Endodontics

These programmes demonstrate Plymouth’s commitment to meeting global demand for skills in business, technology, engineering, and healthcare — fields that drive innovation and employability worldwide.

Scholarships and Funding Schemes

For international students, affordability is a key factor. The University of Plymouth supports students with generous scholarship schemes, designed to reward academic excellence and ease financial challenges.

Key Scholarships for International Postgraduates

Important to Note:

• Only one scholarship can be applied — you’ll receive the highest-value award you qualify for.

• Scholarships are not available for online courses, Peninsula Medical School, or Peninsula Dental School programmes.

Benefits of Combining January Entry and Scholarships

Choosing the January intake with scholarships gives you the best of both worlds:

• Financial Relief: Reduce your tuition burden with automatic or competitive scholarships.

• Faster Career Start: Start your programme earlier and graduate sooner.

• Networking Opportunities: Smaller January cohorts allow stronger connections with peers and faculty.

• Global Recognition: A UK master’s degree boosts employability worldwide.

Requirements and Eligibility

To qualify for Plymouth’s postgraduate programmes and scholarships, you’ll need to meet standard entry requirements, plus programme-specific criteria.

General Requirements

• A relevant bachelor’s degree with strong grades.

• Proof of English language proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.

• Academic transcripts and certificates.

• A personal statement describing your goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing Plymouth.

• Two references, preferably one academic.

• A valid passport (and UK student visa, if applicable).

Research Programmes

For research-focused courses, you may also need:

• A research proposal aligned with Plymouth’s research expertise.

• Agreement with a supervisor in your area of study.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Here’s a clear roadmap to applying for a January start master’s at Plymouth:

1. Explore January Programmes
   Browse Plymouth’s official January Start page to find your desired course.

2. Check Eligibility
   Confirm academic and English proficiency requirements for your chosen programme.

3. Review Scholarships
   Identify scholarships you qualify for — some are automatic, while others may require additional steps.

4. Prepare Your Documents

   • Degree transcripts and certificates

   • English test results

   • CV / résumé

   • Personal statement

   • References

   • Passport and visa documents

5. Submit Your Application Online
   Apply directly via the University of Plymouth’s postgraduate portal. Upload all documents during submission.

6. Pay Tuition Deposit (if required)
   A deposit, typically £3,500, may be requested before issuing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for visa purposes.

7. Monitor Application Status
   Watch for conditional or unconditional offers, as well as scholarship notifications.

8. Accept Offer & Finalize Funding
   Confirm your scholarship or discount, arrange payments, and prepare financial documents.

9. Plan Your Arrival
   Secure accommodation, finalize visa, and book travel arrangements in time for the January start.

Academic Calendar & Key Dates

• Research Programmes often start on 1 January, 1 April, or 1 October.

• Postgraduate Taught Programmes beginning in January typically align with Semester 2 of the academic year.

• Always check your chosen faculty’s timetable for programme-specific start dates.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Tailor Your Personal Statement: Show how Plymouth aligns with your career goals.

• Emphasize Achievements: Highlight research, publications, leadership, or professional experience.

• Apply Early: January intake spaces and scholarships are limited, so don’t wait until the last minute.

• Seek Feedback: Have mentors or peers review your statement and documents.

• Stay Organized: Keep a checklist of deadlines, documents, and visa requirements.

Apply Now to Start in January 🚀

The January intake at the University of Plymouth is a golden opportunity to start your postgraduate journey sooner while benefiting from generous international scholarships.

👉 Explore courses: University of Plymouth — January Start Programmes
👉 Review funding: Scholarships for International Students
👉 Apply now: Don’t delay — spaces and scholarships are limited!