How to prepare for the transition between undergraduate and postgraduate

Hey, I’m Ashleigh! I was a Graphic Design MA student at the University of Huddersfield. After completing my Graphic Design BA in summer 2020, I chose to continue onto the Master’s in September of the same year. Although I stayed at home most of the year, due to the *C word* situation, I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Master’s. I loved making new friends and using the time to challenge myself and my practice.

 

Independent study 

 

When transitioning between undergraduate and postgraduate, I feel it is important to know about the level of independent study. On the Master’s, each module is completely self-driven. Compared to undergraduate study, I see the Master’s as a more guided experience. While you have the chance to build your core skills at undergraduate level, postgraduate study allows you to enhance what you already know and to explore your practice in more depth. Before we begin a module, we are given a project brief, which is open to interpretation. Personally, I love the freedom! Each student has their own approach; therefore, everyone’s work is entirely unique to themselves. I find this exciting to see within my group crit sessions, especially seeing people’s passions shine through within their work.

Time flies!

 

A significant difference between my undergraduate and my Master’s is the duration. My Master’s is one year, whereas my BA was four years, including a placement year. Being prepared for the change of pace is crucial because time will fly! I cannot believe that I’m already coming to the end of my Master’s. A key piece of advice would be to make the most of each opportunity presented to you. I have hosted a workshop, submitted my work to external competitions and attended events with guest speakers. Each experience has added a unique value to myself and my work. I feel that it is beneficial to make good use of the experience of postgraduate study because you may not have the time to be involved in as many exciting activities and opportunities when working full-time.

 

Be open-minded

 

Being open-minded is a good way to prepare for the shift between undergraduate and postgraduate study. On my course I have been introduced to new skills, approaches and processes within and beyond my field of graphic design. I prepared myself to give new things a go and I have used the Master’s as an opportunity to absorb as much as I can before undertaking a full-time career. Personally, I would recommend not limiting yourself and restricting your practice too much because you’re only stopping your potential to grow.

Prepare for it to be different

 

An additional point to prepare for is the gear change. Once you advance to postgraduate level, the content within the course will be harder and is designed to push you and elevate your set skills. For me, it has enhanced my drive and determination to get to where I want to be. Fortunately, I received a lot of encouragement when I was considering applying for my Master’s. Talking to people about my thoughts in relation to postgraduate study was great. Speak to your friends and family, get in touch with your tutors and peers, or reach out to current postgraduate students. They will be able to tell you their first-hand experiences and the ins-and-outs of the course.

 

You can also find out more about becoming a postgraduate student at our Postgraduate Open Days.