Funding
A conversion course is a study program that educates graduates on a different topic and prepares them for a single career. These are frequently (though not always) master’s level courses.
Many are, however, quicker than a full Master’s degree, with a higher emphasis on technical training rather than a thesis.
Keep Reading for more details on what the Postgraduate conversion course is all about.
What is a Conversion Course?
A conversion course is a study program that teaches graduates in a different topic and (normally) readies them for a particular profession.
Conversion courses are, therefore, strenuous postgraduate programs that enable you to build a career for which your undergraduate degree or professional experience did not teach you.
These are frequently (but sometimes not) master’s level programs. Most are, nevertheless, quicker than a full Master’s degree, with a higher emphasis on practical exercise rather than a thesis.
Read also: What Can I Do With a Master’s in Business Management?
What are the Kinds of Postgraduate Conversion Courses?
There are various study alternatives for postgraduate conversion courses, but the following are the most common:
- Graduate Diploma (GDip)
- Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
- Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
- Masters conversion courses
1. Graduate Diploma (GDip)
Despite being taken by graduate students, this is a level 6 certification that consists of a collection of modules that would be learned on a full undergraduate degree. A GDip typically carries 120 CATS / 60 ECTS credits.
2. Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
A level 7 qualification that frequently includes modules that could have been studied on a Master’s course. Ordinarily, a PGDip is worth 120 CATS / 60 ECTS credits.
3. Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
A PGCert is a shorter option available to a PGDip, usually worth 60 CATS / 30 ECTS Masters-level credits.
4. Masters conversion courses
These are Master’s courses for graduates who have little to no prior knowledge of the subject in question. A Master’s degree, usually worth 180 CATS / 90 ECTS, takes more time to achieve than the other options and typically involves a thesis.
Read also: Difference Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate
How does a Postgraduate Conversion Course Work?
Postgraduate conversion courses will provide you with a strong foundation for what you may have skipped during your undergraduate studies.
If it is a level 6 graduate diploma (such as the Graduate Diploma in Law), the curriculum will most likely combine 18 months of undergraduate study all into a strenuous year.
All whilst, if you enroll in a level 7 conversion course such as a Master’s or a PGDip, you will learn the undergraduate fundamentals of the subject before moving on to study Masters-level modules.
What are the Entry Requirements for Conversion courses?
Under certain circumstances, you may be required to demonstrate a preceding passion for the subject or career to which you are ‘making the transition.’
Most PGCEs, for instance, require applicants to have prior educational experiences. Similarly, for a Master’s in Social Work, relevant work experience is required.
As you might expect, the specific entry requirements vary from course to course. In general, a 2:1 degree in any subject is required, but some programs will accept a 2:2.
Read also: How Long Does it Take to Become a Lawyer, Cost, & Salary
What Conversion courses Subjects Can I Study?
Postgraduate conversion courses are intended to help you plan for a career that is unconnected to your undergraduate degree.
These are the most popular subjects for which you could take a conversion course:
Psychology
By completing a BPS-accredited PGDip or MSc Psychology, you will be able to obtain the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) required to begin a career in psychology. Look for Psychology conversion classes.
Law
If you want to be a lawyer but did not study law as an undergraduate, the first step is to pursue a Graduate Diploma in Law (or another program that will prepare you for the Solicitors Qualification Exam). Look for courses in law conversion.
Read also: 15 Free Online Law Courses to Become a Lawyer
Teaching
There are numerous graduate pathways into teaching, with the PGCE being one of the most common. This qualification is typically followed by Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Learn more about postgraduate teacher training programs.
Are Fundings Available for Conversion courses?
This varies depending on the nature of the postgraduate conversion course you’re pursuing, so confirm the applicable ones on each page. However, there are a few general guidelines to follow:
If you are pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and meet certain requirements, you may be qualified for PGCE-specific funding, such as charitable government-funded student grants or scholarships.
Masters courses are eligible for the UK postgraduate loan scheme (but not PGDips/PGCerts). Many universities provide scholarships and student grants to help deserving students fund their studies.
Read also: Top Cheapest Online Law School To Study In 2022
Conclusion
It is no surprise that conversion courses are difficult, but they are not the only route to BPS certification. The program’s density adds to its appeal.
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