Thinking about taking your education to the next level? A postgraduate taught programme, typically a Masters degree like an MA, MSc, or LLM, is an excellent way to gain specialist knowledge, boost your career prospects, and join a global community of experts.

The University of Sheffield is home to a vast selection of these programmes, known for their world-class teaching and strong links to industry. Let's explore the exciting range of subjects available for you to dive into.

A Masters Degree: What is a Taught Programme?

A postgraduate taught programme is usually a one-year full-time course (or two years part-time) that combines structured teaching, like lectures and seminars, with independent study. You'll complete modules, coursework, and typically a final dissertation or project to earn your qualification. This format is perfect for those who want a focused, in-depth specialisation after their bachelor's degree.

Discovering the Diverse Subject Areas

The University of Sheffield offers over 300 postgraduate taught courses across its faculties, meaning there's a subject to match almost every interest and career path. Here is a snapshot of the popular areas you can choose from:

1. Engineering and Science 🔬

As a leading research institution, Sheffield offers cutting-edge Masters degrees in technical fields. These programmes are designed to equip you with advanced practical and theoretical skills needed for the future of technology and industry.

1. Engineering: Advanced Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering.
2. Science: Advanced Cell and Gene Therapies, Physics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, and Statistics.

2. Business and Management 📈

The Management School is highly respected and provides qualifications that open doors to global leadership roles. These courses focus on responsible and sustainable management practices.

1. Courses include: Business Analytics, Human Resource Management, International Management, Finance, and Strategic Marketing and Branding.
2. The MBA (Master of Business Administration) is also available for experienced professionals looking to accelerate their career.

3. Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences 🌍

These programmes encourage critical thinking and research into the issues shaping our world. From exploring history to analysing modern media, you'll develop communication and research skills valued across many sectors.

1. Popular options: Applied Linguistics and TESOL, International Relations, Law (LLM courses like Corporate and Commercial Law), Architectural Design, and Archaeology and Heritage.
2. Education: A range of MA and specialised certificates are available, including the International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE).

4. Medicine, Dentistry, and Health 🩺

For those looking to advance their knowledge in healthcare and medical fields, Sheffield provides specialist courses developed alongside leading practitioners and researchers.

1. Examples: Public Health (MPH), Clinical Neurology, Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, and Advanced Clinical Practice.

Key Features of Sheffield’s Taught Masters

Choosing a Masters at the University of Sheffield means you benefit from a unique learning environment:

1. Research-Led Teaching: Your courses are taught by academics who are leaders in their field, meaning you learn about the latest developments and discoveries.
2. Flexibility: Many courses offer a wide choice of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career goals.
3. Career Focused: The programmes are designed in close consultation with industry, ensuring you develop skills that are immediately relevant and highly sought after by employers worldwide.

Taking the leap into postgraduate study is a big decision, and at Sheffield, you’ll find a supportive, internationally focused environment ready to help you succeed.

References

1. The University of Sheffield official website for Postgraduate Taught Courses: sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/2026
2. University of Sheffield Masters Courses and Subject Areas: sheffield.ac.uk/courses/subjects