Whether you’re inspired to change careers or looking to deepen your knowledge and further your education, studying for a master’s is an incredible way to boost your employability. There are numerous reasons for postgraduate study, but the decision depends on each person’s individual needs and ambitions. If you are considering a master’s, here are some of the perks and possible outcomes.
By Editorial Team. Published 06 November 2023. Last updated October 03 2025.
Increased earning potential
While studying for a master’s does come with a financial commitment, it has been found to increase overall earning potential. The government’s 2024 graduate labour market statistics report found that 79% of working-age postgraduates were in high-skilled employment compared to 67.9% of graduates and 23.7% of non-graduates. Additionally, postgraduates were found to earn around £5,000 a year more on average than their graduate counterparts.
This means, generally, the long-term financial benefits could outweigh the immediate cost. A master’s improves earning potential in a variety of ways, such as giving you a competitive edge, showcasing your subject expertise and generally conveying to employers that you have a high level of discipline and intelligence. As such, it opens up opportunities that may not have otherwise been possible.
Job satisfaction
Studying for a master’s allows you to explore a subject you’re interested in and apply this knowledge in a professional context. It goes without saying that doing something we enjoy is a plus, but job satisfaction is also more likely to lead to long-term success. Professionals who feel fulfilled in their work experience higher levels of motivation and overall happiness and subsequently reach new highs in their career.
Networking opportunities
During your master’s course you’ll meet new people who’ll most likely share similar interests and ambitions. As well as having a positive impact on your social life, this can also be a valuable networking opportunity. In addition to this, studying for a master’s with us gives you the chance to gain tailored advice from our Employability Team, opening up the prospect of work experience and other potential opportunities.
Take your specialism to the next level
For students choosing to pursue a master’s in a similar subject area as their undergraduate course provides an opportunity to solidify this knowledge and specialise in areas of interest. For example, business graduates may go on to study an MSc in Project Management, Business Analytics, Leadership or Cyber Security and law graduates may go on to study an LLM in Family Law, International Human Rights, or Corporate Governance. There’s an extensive range of master’s to choose from to build on your existing skillset and take it to the next level.
Change career
For some, a master’s is an opportunity to start over and build an entirely new career path. Many people decide after some time in the working world that they desire a change of direction. For example, somebody might find that their favourite part about work has been helping and understanding others, and later decide to undertake a Psychology Conversion. For those hoping to get into the lucrative world of tech, they might opt for a Computer Science Conversion.
A master’s is the ideal place to start a new career, building up your expertise in that area and providing the chance to explore new professional opportunities via the University’s Employability Service. For those who don’t have a specific career in mind, opting for a more general business course such as an MSc in Project Management or Strategic Business Management sets you up for a career in a range of corporate disciplines from HR and finance to business leadership or marketing.
Work/life balance
You may have heard the Mark Twain quote — 'Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.' That might well be an exaggeration, but your overall wellbeing will definitely improve in a role which you enjoy and matches your potential. Staying in a job you loathe can feel demoralising, instead, study a master’s to increase your chances of thriving in your dream career.
Why study a masters in the UK?
If you’re an international student considering a master’s you’ll find there are a number of benefits to choosing to study in the UK. All the reasons above apply. You’ll increase your earning potential, learn new skills and have the chance to specialise in your field. A further benefit is postgraduate qualifications from the UK are respected internationally, meaning you’ll increase your global employability opportunities. You’ll also get a chance to live in the UK for a year and join a thriving international student community.
Explore our range of postgraduate courses and step into your future career.
