Professional Studies (Learning at Work)

Overview

Overview

We currently offer both an MA or MSc Professional Studies. If the majority of your learning is science-based, the MSc is for you. If your learning is predominantly in art-based subjects, we recommend the MA.

Because the course is work-based, you need to already be in a full-time, part-time or voluntary role. If you don't have an undergraduate degree, you could still do this postgraduate course if you have several years experience in a responsible position (such as a military role) or you have high-level skills through experience that isn't reflected in your qualifications.

You can tailor the course to match your professional and personal aspirations and your employer's objectives. The way you learn is flexible, so you can study wherever is most convenient for you and schedule your studies around your existing commitments.

You'll get to put the skills you learn to work instantly in your job, contributing to the success of your company. When you complete the course, you'll improve your career prospects and have the skills and knowledge to perform more effectively in your job.

What you'll experience

• Choose modules and study topics that match your personal and professional goals, as well as your employer's objectives
• Develop your ability to analyse problems, research and propose solutions, and make sound professional judgements when faced with the organisational, financial and management aspects of a business
• Take part in work-based learning (WBL) projects that form part of your daily workload, which ensure that the knowledge you develop is relevant to your employer's business
• Get an optional 1-day induction in Portsmouth at the start of the course and have the opportunity to study on campus, if it suits you
• Develop your learning plan with the University and your employer, so you can make an effective contribution to your workplace as you learn
• Have full access to our student support services and community including study support, sports and recreation facilities, and the Students' Union
• Tap in to our Library's electronic resources, which you can access from anywhere with a Web connection
• Choose a Workplace Mentor to support your learning – someone at work who can offer advice, guidance, and moral support
• Have support from an academic tutor specialising in your area of study and a University learning manager who oversees your programme
• Use online tutorials and lectures to help you with study skills, including your analytical and writing skills

Work experience and career planning

When you finish the course, you'll have the skills and knowledge to advance your career with your current employer and boost your long-term career prospects.

After the course, you can get help, advice and support for up to 5 years from our Careers and Employability service as you advance in your career.

Teaching and Programme Assessment

How you're taught will depend on which modules you take and the work-based learning projects you do.

Most of the course is delivered via our interactive virtual learning environment. With access to all the study material you’ll need, discussion forums and the chance to connect with peers and lecturers via chat sessions, you’ll have plenty of academic support and heaps of resources.

Depending on the modules you study and your location, you may also be able to study on campus, experiencing face-to-face teaching methods.

The way you're assessed will depend on which modules you take and the work-based learning projects you do.