Research Masters Students

Life on a postgraduate course can be tremendously busy. It can be difficult to find the time to work out your next career steps. Add to this the fact that for many sectors applications need to be made before Christmas and you might feel that as soon as you arrive in Oxford you have to start taking action on what to do when you leave. 

Whether you want to continue with your research in academia, or are thinking about jobs, the menu on the left links you to a host of information to help you plan and take your next steps.

What careers are open to me?

First review your options, Your masters….what next? (from the Prospects website) provides a good starting point. Our Career Briefings 2011/12 (PDF) include information about entry points, the experience needed, job search strategy for that sector and links to a host of other resources for specific job industries. If you need help working out what might suit you or just want to go back to basics have a look at Career Planning to kickstart your thinking.

When do I need to make decisions and apply?

There is a huge amount of careers-related activity during Michaelmas Term when the bulk of the careers fairs and employer presentations take place (to see a list of current and upcoming events log in to CareerConnect).  Many sectors have closing dates before Christmas. Some sectors recruit year-round. Those thinking about postgraduate study should be aware that many scholarship deadlines, particularly for US courses, are in November, and application deadlines for courses (including PhDs) are typically December – March. Early research into your sector of interest is important.

I’d like to continue with my research after my Masters course

You may be thinking about applying for a PhD (DPhil in Oxford) perhaps with an academic career in mind. Have a look at the information in the 'Continuing your studies or research' section to get you started. The Vitae website is another useful source of information.

Page last edited: 30 April 2012

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