Entry Requirements
Choosing the Right Qualification for You
Academic level
All CeDEP programmes are taught to Master’s (Second Cycle) level, which involves building upon existing knowledge and understanding typically associated with the Bachelor’s (First Cycle) level or its equivalent. Study at Master’s level requires:
- originality in developing and/or applying ideas, and extending or enhancing previous learning
- application of knowledge and understanding, including problem solving in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts
- integration of knowledge and handling of complexity
- formulating judgements with incomplete or limited information, including reflection on social and ethical responsibilities
- clear and unambiguous communication of conclusions, and the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
- learning skills to study in a manner that may be largely self-directed or autonomous
Prospective students should note that distance education of this kind demands a high degree of commitment, determination and self-discipline. Whilst CeDEP provides significant support through the tutorial system and by other means, students taking on programmes of this nature should possess a strong measure of self-reliance.
Qualifications and entry requirements
CeDEP offers a variety of different degrees and entry points to suit particular study needs and educational backgrounds. The main differences are the entry requirements and the volume of study involved.
Master of Science (MSc)
Direct entry to the MSc requires a good first degree in an appropriate subject area, as accepted by the University of London.
You will be expected to complete 10 modules, of which two constitute the Research Component.
Postgraduate Diploma
Entry to the Postgraduate Diploma requires either a degree or a technical or professional qualification and experience considered appropriate and relevant by the University.
You will be expected to complete 8 modules, with no research component.
Postgraduate Certificate
This has similar entry requirements to those for the Postgraduate Diploma, but comprises only 50% of the study requirements.
You will be expected to complete 4 modules, with no research component.
Individual Professional Award
Entry is at the discretion of CeDEP, with each application assessed on merit. This may offer some experienced and able candidates without a first degree a route into postgraduate training.
You will be expected to complete at least 1 module. See the IPA page for more information.
English Language Competency
Studying with CeDEP requires a high level of English language ability in reading, writing and study skills. If English is a second language, competency should be at least equivalent to a score of 7.0 in the IELTS test, a score of 600 in the paper-based test (PBT) or 100+ (with 25+ in writing) in the internet test (iBT). Applicants may be asked to provide evidence of language ability as tested by the British Council or another registered body.
How long will it take?
The minimum period of registration for the MSc and Postgraduate Diploma is two years, and students are expected to complete within five years. The Postgraduate Certificate may be completed in a minimum of one year. Short Course students have a one year registration period.
Progression through qualifications
Students may progress through the various qualifications offered.
Those who begin on either the Postgraduate Certificate or the Postgraduate Diploma can upgrade to the MSc if they are successful with their studies and examinations. Progression can similarly be made from the Postgraduate Certificate onto the Postgraduate Diploma.
Students who successfully complete one or more modules under the Short Course Scheme are eligible to transfer to the Postgraduate Certificate or, in some instances, to the appropriate Postgraduate Diploma or MSc. (One credit will be awarded for each relevant module successfully completed as a Short Course student).
Present Undergraduates
If you are an undergraduate in the final stage of completing your degree, you are welcome to apply for any of our programmes through the usual application process. If we make you an offer, it will be dependent on you achieving good degree results, and final confirmation will depend upon us receiving your transcript and/or degree certificate(s).
You are responsible for making sure that an official transcript or certified copy of your degree certificate is sent to us as soon as possible and before the application deadline. We can only enrol you if you have satisfied the requirements for entry by the enrollment deadline.
