Pre-Masters courses

What is the Pre-Masters Programme?

This programme is a preparational course for international students who wish to study one of a range of Masters degrees at the University of Sussex. You can choose to study either one or two semesters of the programme, depending on your academic level.

There are two subject pathways available, depending on your chosen progression degree. You will study a combination of core and subject-specific modules related to your intended Masters degree. During the Pre-Masters course you have the option to change your progression degree.

Who is this programme for?

The Pre-Masters Programme is intended for students with a first degree who want subject-focused additional tuition ahead of studying a Masters in the UK. Specifically designed to improve your English language level, study skills and academic knowledge, this course will help you to succeed in your postgraduate study and in your professional career.

Course facts

Course length:
One or two semesters

Entry points:
One semester: November, January and April
Two semester: September, November and January

Entry requirements:
Find out more

Fees:
Find out more

Choose your subject route

Business, Media and Social Sciences - which offers pathways in: 

• Business, Management and Finance
• Law, International Relations and Social Sciences
• Film and Media
• Fintech

Science and Engineering - with pathways in:

• Computing and Engineering
• Life Sciences

Why study a Pre-Masters Programme?

Through this programme, you can enhance your natural academic abilities and be supported as you are introduced to living in a new culture and studying in a foreign country. You will receive university-style tuition in a focused academic environment, and benefit from an international experience by learning alongside students from a variety of different cultures.

Other reasons to study include:

Change your route

For both Pre-Masters Programmes, you have the option to change your progression degree. This makes the programme a great choice for students who have decided on their area of further study, and who are looking for a flexible route to university.

Focus on your career

We know that you may already be thinking about your future career, which is why we have integrated a careers element into our academic courses at the International Study Centre. Our Skills for Success module will guide you towards making the right choices and give you the tools you need to stand out in the competitive graduate job market.

Assess your progress

We will assess your progress regularly to ensure you are on track to complete your course successfully, so that you can go on to study your chosen degree at Sussex. You may take part in exams, seminar discussions, group projects, presentations, laboratory practicals, software exercises and essays as part of your overall assessment.

Improve your English

Need to improve your English language or raise your IELTS score? You can study one of our English language courses at the International Study Centre. Choose from English for Pre-Masters (EPM) or Online Pre-Sessional English (OPSE), studied before the Pre-Masters Programme, or Language Lift – studied simultaneously with your course.

Study plan options

English language level	Semesters	Start date	End date	Progress to the University of Sussex
IELTS 6.0 (6.0 in writing, 5.5 in all other skills)	1 semester plus 3 weeks of additional study and life skills	November	May	September
IELTS 6.0 (6.0 in writing, 5.5 in all other skills)	1 semester	January	May	September
IELTS 6.0 (6.0 in writing, 5.5 in all other skills)	1 semester	April	August	September
IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills)	2 semesters	September	May	September
IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills)	2 semesters plus 3 weeks of additional study and life skills	November	August	September
IELTS 5.5 (5.5 in all skills)	2 semesters	January	August	September

Why join this November?

Join us in November and stay on track to progress to your degree in September 2023.

By starting the 3-term International Foundation Year in November, you will benefit from three additional weeks of study and life skills before commencing your main pathway programme in January 2023. There will be no additional tuition fee for this period, and this will provide you with a great opportunity for an enhanced student experience focusing on three key areas: orientation; practical support and academic and digital skills. Topics will include a digital skills health check; managing your money; practical tips on finding study and life balance; and an introduction to assessments in UK higher education.

What will I study in the additional three weeks?  

You’ll benefit from a 15-hour per week face-to-face classes, allowing you to:

• feel more confident and better prepared for the start of your January programme of study
• practice your English by interacting with the fellow students and build friendships
• assess your own digital skills proficiency
• meet the key Centre staff who will provide advice for success
• familiarise yourselves with the support available
• apply a range of academic study skills to meet your individual needs
• have more time to adapt to the UK life and settle in before you begin your January programme.

Are there any additional cost or fees?

There will be no additional tuition fee, as November starts will have the same tuition fee as the respective January programme. However, there will be additional costs to consider, as expected with being in the UK for a longer period (i.e. accommodation). If you request accommodation on your application form, our Central Student Support Team will contact you directly in October regarding the options available.