Postgraduate degrees in the UK are categorised into ‘taught’ or ‘research’ programmes. A taught postgraduate programme typically lasts for one year and provides more advanced and intensive study in the subject of your undergraduate degree.
For Indian students, studying for a master's in the UK offers the unique opportunity to pursue internships and gain work experience internationally. Learn more below, and to enquire about securing a place on a master's with internship in the UK, contact SI-UK India today.
Five Reasons to Choose a Master’s with Internship
A master’s with an internship component can offer numerous academic and professional benefits. Here are five compelling reasons why opting for a master's with an internship can be advantageous:
1. Master's with Internships Connect the Theory and Practical
A master's integrated with an internship component is essential because it provides students with first-hand experience, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom to practical situations within their field of study. Interning is a crucial bridge between classroom learning and real-world application because having a good degree is not enough for a successful career. It's where students can apply the theoretical knowledge gained in their master's to practical scenarios within their chosen industry. By immersing themselves in a professional environment, interns can see firsthand how concepts taught in the classroom translate into tangible outcomes and solutions.
Moreover, internships provide a platform for students to test their skills, receive feedback, and make adjustments based on real-world challenges. Ultimately, interning enables students to solidify their understanding of academic concepts, gain practical experience, and prepare themselves for successful careers in their chosen fields.
2. Internships are Important for Master's Success
A master's degree in the UK with internship components offers students invaluable hands-on experience, bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application. The exposure is highly valued by employers, as evidenced by the NACE survey findings indicating that 91% of employers prefer candidates with work experience. Additionally, 65% of employers prioritise candidates with relevant internship or co-op experience. It underscores the significance of internships in preparing students for the workforce demands and increasing their employability.
Through internships, students gain practical skills and knowledge and demonstrate their ability to adapt and thrive in professional environments, making them more competitive candidates in today's job market.
3. Internships Promote Growth
Internships serve as invaluable opportunities for self-discovery and personal growth. Through hands-on experiences, interns gain insights into their strengths, interests, and career aspirations. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 91% of employers believe that soft skills, such as self-awareness and adaptability, are equally important as technical skills. Internships provide a platform for students to cultivate these soft skills as they navigate new challenges and responsibilities. Internships offer exposure to various roles and industries, allowing individuals to explore different career paths and refine their professional goals.
By gaining clarity about their strengths and interests through internships, students can make more informed decisions about their academic and career trajectories, leading to greater satisfaction and success in the long run. Internships facilitate self-discovery and personal development, equipping individuals with the insights and skills to thrive in their future endeavours. A master's with an internship helps students know about self-capabilities and encourages them to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
4. Internships in Master's is a Policy Career Pathway
Internships within a master's in Public Policy (SPP) offer students a platform to explore their interests and find their niche within their preferred policy sector. Students gain valuable insights into the unique challenges facing the industry of their choice. Through hands-on experience, they apply the skills and knowledge acquired through their SPP coursework to develop innovative solutions to these pressing problems. It helps students make informed career decisions by allowing them to experience the day-to-day workings of their chosen field.
Research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers shows that 42% of employers prefer candidates with industry-specific work experience, emphasising the importance of internships in gaining practical knowledge.
5. Interning will Allow you to Enhance your Resume
Internship experiences are crucial in enhancing resumes and making candidates more competitive in today's job market. Interning marks the starting point of your journey in policy. Interning sets the stage for future opportunities, providing a glimpse into the possibilities and challenges ahead as you navigate the dynamic policymaking landscape. Research by Robert Half shows that 91% of executives value internships when considering candidates for full-time positions. Interning is essential for showcasing knowledge and skills, whether pursuing a master's or doctorate. It is necessary if the graduate degree is in a new field, as internships provide practical experience. Many opportunities exist for graduate students, with organisations like the CIA and the National Cancer Institute offering specialised courses.
The internship experience has become a prerequisite for many positions. It also provides opportunities for networking and building professional relationships, which can lead to job offers or valuable references in the future.
UK Universities Offering Master's with Internships
Most UK universities pride themselves in building strong relations with prestigious multinational companies. An internship at a world-renowned company can help students gain vital experience while pursuing their master's and gaining an advantage over other graduates.
UK Universities that are offering master courses with internships are:
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Birmingham City University
- University of Chester
- Coventry University
- University of Glasgow
- Glasgow Caledonian University
- University of Greenwich
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of Lincoln
- London South Bank University
- Manchester Metropolitan University
- Middlesex University
- University of Northampton
- Northumbria University
- Nottingham Trent University
- University of Portsmouth
- Robert Gordon University
- University of Salford
- Sheffield Hallam University
- University of Sussex
- Swansea University
- University of Stirling
- University of East London
- University of the West of Scotland
- University of West London
- University of Worcester
- UWE Bristol
- University of Hull
- University of Leicester
- University of Bath
Study Master's with Internship in the UK
If you want to study a master's with internship in the UK, arrange your free consultation today. Our expert education consultants can help you find the perfect master's course with an internship, helping you advance in the international job market.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
