# Pre-Masters

**Source**: https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/programmes/pre-masters
**Parent**: https://sheffield.ac.uk/international/entry-requirements

## Preparing you for a University of Sheffield postgraduate degree

The Pre-Masters programme at the International College offers a path to a masters for international students at the University of Sheffield. This programme is designed in collaboration with the University and is delivered by Study Group.

### What is the Pre-Masters?

The Pre-Masters is an intensive 1.5 or 2-semester programme. Once you successfully complete the programme and achieve the required grades, you can enter your chosen postgraduate degree at the University.

### Why study a masters programme?

- Develop the knowledge gained during your undergraduate degree.
- Improve your career prospects by building your academic experience.
- Discover a new subject for a change of career.
- Improve your language skills and experience new cultures.
- Network with others in your field.

### Key facts

**Course length:**1.5 or 2 semesters

**Entry points:**\
2 semesters – September, November (Enhanced Induction) or January\
1.5 semesters – March

**Age on entry:**\
Students will normally be 19 years of age or older

**Entry requirements:** [Check academic and English language entry requirements](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/how-to-apply/entry-requirements)

**Fees:** [Check fees for your programme](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/how-to-apply/fees)

## Choose from two subject routes

[### Business, Social Sciences and Humanities

This route will prepare you for a taught postgraduate degree in the Faculty of Social Sciences, including the Management School and the School of Law.](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/programmes/pre-masters/business-social-sciences-and-humanities)

[### Science and Engineering

This route will prepare you for a taught postgraduate degree in the Faculty of Engineering or the Faculty of Science.](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/programmes/pre-masters/science-and-engineering)

### Course content

This course includes academic subjects, study skills and English language preparation. Modules have been tailored to focus on the academic areas most relevant to your chosen degree. It has been designed specifically to prepare you for taught masters study at the University, if you do not already meet the entry requirements for direct entry.

### Assessment

Your development will be assessed regularly throughout your course. This will make sure you achieve the grades needed for progression onto your chosen postgraduate degree.

Assessments may include:

- coursework
- examinations
- presentations
- extended essays/case studies.

### 96% of students

who completed their Pre-Masters Programme at the International College were offered a place to study Masters degree at University of Sheffield in 2025.

## University-style teaching

The University of Sheffield International College introduces you to the style of teaching that you will experience at undergraduate level. You'll build on your research skills and immerse yourself in critical writing, analysis and literature reviews to prepare you for your undergraduate study at the University.

## Skills employers look for

The Pre-Masters curriculum includes employability skills to help you prepare for your future career, from teamwork and problem solving to communication and presenting. These skills will help you stand out and prepare for success in the professional working world.

### Study plan options

You can start the Pre-Masters programme at several points in the year, as long as you meet the entry requirements.

|  |  |  |  |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| **Course length** | **Start date** | **End date** | **Progress to the University of Sheffield** |
| 2 semesters | September | April\* | September |
| 3 weeks Enhanced Induction + 2 semesters | November | September | September |
| 2 semesters | January | September | September |
| 1.5 semesters | March | September | September |

\*Teaching for the September intake concludes in April. However, resits take place in May, for students who need them.

### English language preparation

If you meet the academic entry requirements for the Pre-Masters Programme but need help with your English language, you can first join our English language preparation programme taught by the University of Sheffield’s English Language Teaching Centre.

Depending on your pathway programme, English language level and the intake date you aim to begin, there are two options available:

**On campus:** If you need to improve your English language before starting the Pre-Masters Programme in January or September, our English language preparation programme will help you to develop your English language skills and introduce you to the essential academic and study skills while getting accustomed to life in Sheffield.

**Online:** If you need to improve your English language before starting of the September, January or 1.5 semester Pre-Masters in March, you can first join our English language preparation programme delivered fully online. This course will help you feel more confident in your English language level before moving to the UK.

[Explore English programmes.](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/programmes/pre-courses/english-language-courses)

## Geovanni's inspiring journey at the University of Sheffield

### Born in Malaysia. Made in Sheffield.

I find the teaching style is really good. They really know what they are doing and what they are talking about and\
especially teaching me for research projects. They are all very good and experienced, I think the College is doing\
a good job in choosing people that can really teach and deliver what they need to\
for the courses, for all the subjects across the board.

Nur\
Pre-Masters Business, Social Sciences and Humanities

[### How to apply

Ready to apply? Discover how to submit an application and learn more about fees, semester dates and entry requirements.](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/how-to-apply)

[### Entry requirements

Find out the academic and English language entry requirements for your chosen programme at the International College.](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/how-to-apply/entry-requirements)

### Ready to join us?

Our student enrolment advisors are here to help with your application and answer any questions you have about studying with us.

- [Apply now](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/apply-now/apply-form)
- [Enquire now](https://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/contact-us)