Further study and academic careers

Your next step starts with informed choices. At Queen Mary, we know there’s no single path after your degree. Our students go on to shape careers across research, industry, public service, and beyond. 

Further study is one of those pathways. For some, it opens the door to a profession. For others, it’s a way to explore ideas more deeply or move into a new field. 

What matters is making a decision that works for you - based on your goals, your interests, and where you want to have impact.

Why consider further study? 

Further study can help you move forward with purpose. You might choose it if you want to: 

• Build expertise in a subject you care about. 
• Enter a specific career such as teaching, law or psychology. 
• Change direction through a conversion course. 
• Develop research skills and explore complex global challenges. 
• Strengthen your position in a competitive job market. 
• At Queen Mary, many of our students are motivated by the opportunity to apply knowledge in ways that make a difference—locally and globally.
• Further study is most valuable when it has a clear link to where you want to go next. 

Is further study right for me?

This path may suit you if you: 

• Enjoy asking difficult questions and exploring them in depth. 
• Are motivated by generating new knowledge.
• Value independence in your work. 
• Want to contribute to teaching and learning.  

Academic careers are competitive and often involve short-term roles before permanent positions. Many researchers build experience across different institutions and countries. 

How to decide if further study is right for you 

Take a step back and focus on what you need - not just what feels like the “next step”. 

Ask yourself: 

• Where do I want to go next? 
• Is this qualification required for that path? (You can check this using Prospects career profiles).
• Would experience or employment give me more right now? 
• Am I ready for the time and financial commitment? 
• Have I spoken to people who’ve taken this route?  

There’s no single “right” answer. Many Queen Mary graduates take different routes and still reach the same destination. 

Finding and applying for courses 

Choosing the right course takes time and research. Focus on: 

• Course content and teaching style. 
• Entry requirements. 
• Location and learning environment. 
• Funding and financial support . 

Search for postgraduate courses  

• Prospects 
• UCAS   

What you’ll need to prepare 

• A personal statement
• References
• Evidence of your interest and commitment

Funding your studies 

Postgraduate study is an investment in your future. Make sure you understand your options, which are as follows: 

• Government postgraduate loans
• Scholarships and bursaries 
• Research funding (for some postgraduate research degrees)
• You may also explore funding information through UK Research and Innovation and Prospects 

Support at Queen Mary 

You don’t have to make the further study/academic career  decision alone. 

What we offer 

• One-to-one careers appointments to explore your options.  

• Application support, including personal statement feedback.  

• Workshops and events on postgraduate study and career planning.  

Our approach is shaped by the diversity of our student community. Different perspectives lead to stronger ideas—and better decisions about your future. 

Not sure where to start? 

It’s normal not to have everything mapped out. Take time to explore. Speak to others. Test your ideas. 

Whether you choose further study, employment, or something less traditional, your next step should reflect what matters to you - and where you want to make your mark.