Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Graduate degree

Getting your graduate degree in the UK

Only want to commit a year to a master’s degree? Don’t want to take the GRE? Climb to the next phase in your career and save money and time with a one-year graduate degree in the UK.

Need more reasons to study in the UK? Read about the UK’s cutting-edge degrees, premier culture, sports, and festivals, and find out how easy it is to explore the rest of Europe on the weekends.

Below, you can search for the right program, learn about the application and visa processes, find funding and preview what life will be like in the UK.


Search Degree Programs

Check out our extensive database of study abroad programs: search by location, academic focus and term length


How to Apply

Read our guide to the application process.

Visa and Immigration Requirements

Visa and immigration requirements vary depending on how long you’ll be studying in the UK; whether or not you plan on volunteering, interning, or working in the UK; and whether you are a US citizen. Read our complete guide to the forms and applications required to enter the UK as a student.


Living in the UK

From accommodation options overseas and free health care coverage to food and religion, check out our guide to living in the UK.

Scholarships and Funding

Funding your time overseas is easier that you think. Find out how to use your student loans abroad, search our exclusive scholarship database and learn how to budget for life in the UK.

Associate Degree

Associate Degrees: Associate Degree Programs

A US associate degree is a 2-year degree given by two types of colleges upon completion of an associate degree program. The three classes of US associate degrees offered are the associate of arts degree (also called the A.A. degree), the associate of applied science degree (also called the A.A.S. degree), and the associate of science degree (A.S. degree). US Community colleges offering associate degree programs are operated by the local government and are financed by public funds. US junior colleges offering associate degree programs are generally privately run. Both are excellent options for those wanting to earn an associate degree.

There are three general groups of students that generally pursue and enroll in an associate degree program: (1) students who do not want to pursue a bachelor degree but want to attend a US community college, enroll in an associate degree program, and pursue an associate degree; (2) students who want to pursue a but who want to complete the first two years of their undergraduate education (by enrolling in one of the many associate degree programs) at a US community college and then transfer to a four-year US college for the last two years; (3) members of the local community want to attend associate degree program classes in various subjects at US community colleges without pursuing any type of degree or enrolling in formal associate degree programs (this is called “continuing education”). Here is our list of top US community colleges and junior college offering associate degree programs

The tuition for associate degree programs at US community colleges is typically much less than at a four-year college or university, even a public one. Therefore many American students choose to attend a US community college for two years and enroll in one of the many associate degree programs as a way of lowering the cost of getting a bachelor’s degree in the USA. US community colleges offer a great education in the way of associate degree programs at a great price. More and more international students are now becoming aware of the opportunities offered by US community colleges in the way of associate degree programs. Note that as with any US public college, the tuition for international students and for students who are residents of another state will be higher than the tuition for residents of the state where the US community college offering the associate degree program is located. However, it will still be lower than what an international student would pay at a public four-year college. Students on a tight budget should consider associate degree programs at US community colleges and junior colleges as way to cut costs.

US Junior colleges also offer associate degree programs and are very similar to US community colleges except that some are privately funded and, therefore, are not always as economical. It is important to make sure that the associate degree programs you are considering are fully accredited and the associate degree units you earn transferable. The best way to verify if associate degree programs are accredited is to ask major universities if they would recognize an associate degree from that community college or junior college. Search our list of top US community colleges and junior college offering associate degree programs. Or check out our list of schools offering online associate degree options.

Associate Degree Advantages

· An associate degree can be completed in approximately two years.

· Many skilled professions and high-paying jobs require an associate degree in a specialized field.

· An associate degree is much cheaper than a bachelor's degree.

· Most cities have two year colleges situated conveniently so that you will most likely have more associate degree options.

· Associate degree holders are now more sought after than ever before due to the increased favorable reputations of many community and junior colleges.

Associate Degree Quotes

"I chose to enroll in an associate degree program at a community college. It saved me money, which I then used to get a bachelors degree. I would highly recommend an associate degree to anyone."

-Jennie Montash-

"I earned an associate degree in criminal justice and now earn 30% more than I did before."

-Michael Ford-

"After getting my associate degree, I enrolled in a university, got my bachelors, and now am on my way to an MBA."

-Vicki Lee-

According to the Census Bureau, associate degree holders earn about $1.6 million in their lifetime.

Learn more about a bachelor degree

Learn more about a masters degree: master degree guide.

Film School: Top film schools and film directing schools

Boarding School: Top boys-girls boarding schools, private boarding schools

Cooking School: Top cooking schools and culinary school programs

Online College Degree: About online colleges and online courses

Green Card Lottery: US Green Card Lottery Application

Colleges and Universities

Non-international students can search: Online Bachelor Degree-online bachelors degree guide, Online Master Degree - Online masters degree programs.

USA Masters Degree

Masters Degree Programs and PhD Programs

A college graduate with a bachelor degree may find that degree to be insufficient for the type of profession he would like to have. It may often be necessary to pursue an advanced degree, such as a US master’s degree or US doctorate (also knows as PhD) degree, to advance your career. For example, a US master’s degree may be necessary if you are seeking a position as an economist with your local government, or you may need a PhD degree to teach at a university in your country. In addition, some disciplines are taught only at the graduate school program level in the USA. Among these are law, medicine, and dentistry, both of which are doctoral programs.

Not all USA colleges and universities offer USA masters degree programs. Even fewer offer US PhD degree programs. Also, the number of majors offered at the graduate level by a graduate school will usually be much smaller than the number of majors at the undergraduate level. Occasionally, a school will only offer a major at the graduate program level. For example, Stanford University offers a USA master’s degree in business administration, but offers no undergraduate business degree program. Search our list of top US graduate schools offering master's degree programs and PhD degree programs.

The US masters degree is a graduate school degree that typically requires two years of full-time graduate school coursework to complete. Unlike students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, students in a master’s degree program will complete courses that are highly focused in their field of study (their major). As such, students must have already decided on their major before applying to a master’s degree program.

The US PhD degree or doctoral degree is even more focused and specialized than the master’s degree. Some students will complete a master’s degree before applying to a doctorate degree program, but that is not always necessary. Completion of a US doctorate degree typically takes between three and six years. The length of time will depend on the student’s educational background (a student with a master’s degree may take less time to complete his PhD if it is in the same field), the field of study selected, the student’s dedication and ability, and the complexity of the thesis the student has chosen for his PhD. The thesis is a very long, extensive, and original research paper that is a requirement for completing the PhD program. (Some master’s degree programs also require a thesis, but it is much simpler and shorter than the PhD program thesis.) Get detailed information by searching our list of top US graduate schools offering master's degree programs and PhD degree programs. US and Canadian students can view an extensive list of online masters degrees programs.


USA Universities

USA Colleges

Boarding School: Girls Boarding School-Boys Boarding School

Online Bachelor Degree

Online Master Degree

Bachelor Degree: Bachelors degree Programs

Associate Degree

Masters Degree: Master degree programs

Film School Program: Top Film Schools Filmmaking schools

Cooking Schools-Culinary Schools: Top cooking schools top culinary schools

Online Colleges: Online college degrees-online college courses

Green Card Lottery: US green card lottery application

US Bachelors Degree

Bachelor Degree: What is a Bachelor Degree?

A bachelor degree is the most traditional degree given by US colleges and universities. It normally requires at least four years but not more than five years of full-time college-level coursework. The two most common classes of bachelor degrees awarded by US schools are the bachelor of science degree (also called the B.S.) and the bachelor of arts degree (also called the B.A.). Some schools offer only the B.A. degree, even for science majors (such as a B.A. in biology). Other schools offer both the B.A. and the B.S.

A bachelors degree is what most students pursue when enrolling in a US university or college. In fact, people with a bachelors degree earn substantially more than those who don't. More and more jobs and careers today require applicants to posses one. Some would argue that a bachelors degree is the first step to success. At the very least, it helps open doors of opportunity. All students pursuing a bachelors degree must select a major, usually by the end of their second year. Students must complete a required number of courses (or units) within their major in order to graduate with a bachelor degree in that major. They may also be required to complete a number of courses in closely related fields in order to satisfy other requirements. For example, a student who is majoring in chemistry will not only have to complete chemistry courses, but also mathematics, biology, and physics courses in order to graduate with a bachelor of science degree in chemistry. In addition to the requirements for the major, students must also complete a series of courses outside of their major. These requirements will apply to all students attending the college, regardless of major. For example, all students may be required to complete courses in writing, foreign language, communications, and American history. Without it, they cannot graduate.

There are various types of schools that offer bachelors degree programs. The different types of US schools can be classified into the categories that are described below.

Private universities that offer bachelor degree programs

These are schools that are operated by private individuals and are financed by private funds. These schools are not controlled by any government agency and also offer many bachelors degree options. Tuition at private schools is normally much higher than at public schools because of the lack of financial support from the government. There is no difference between the amount of tuition paid by American students and foreign students. Obtaining a bachelor's degree at a private university or college is what many international students choose. Make sure the university is properly accredited so that your bachelor's degree will be recognized.

Public universities that offer bachelor degree programs

These are schools offering bachelors degree options are operated by a state government and are financed by public funds. They are also called state universities and sometimes have the word state in their names (for example, San Diego State University). The tuition charged by these schools for bachelors degree programs is typically much lower for students who are residents of the state where the school is located. Public universities offer bachelor's degrees and some offer master's and PhD degrees, too. Students who are residents of other states and international students will pay higher tuition because they and their parents have not contributed to the taxes that help finance the schools. The bachelors degree programs offered at public universities vary per school and are popular with international students.

You can also learn how to get a bachelors degree, complete online college courses and online college degrees at these online colleges.



Liberal arts colleges that offer bachelor degree programs

These are schools that offer bachelor's degree programs and provide students with a broad-based, rather than a highly focused, education. These schools are described in detail in the Liberal arts section.

Institutes of technology that offer bachelor degree programs

These are schools that offer bachelor's degree programs and courses primarily in the fields of science and engineering. Unlike a liberal arts college, institutes of technology provide students with an education that is focused in their major. These schools are usually best known for their graduate programs.

Religiously affiliated universities that offer bachelor degree programs

These schools offering bachelors degree programs were founded by religious organizations. Most religiously affiliated schools in America were founded by Christian organizations, but other faiths are also represented. These are all privately funded, and many offer what is referred to as a liberal arts education. Nearly all will admit students of all faiths, and only some will require students to attend religious services. Search our list of top USA universities and colleges offering bachelor degrees.


Specialized vocation schools that offer bachelors degree programs

These are highly specialized schools that offer bachelor's degree vocational training in certain fields. Examples of such schools offering bachelor's degrees would be Julliard (acting) Berkley, (music), Parson's School of Design (fashion), etc. In addition to bachelors degrees, these vocation schools also often offer graduate degrees.


Online colleges and online universities that offer bachelors degree programs

Besides physically attending a school in the USA, international students also have the option of obtaining their bachelors degree online. There are numerous accredited online colleges offering online bachelors degree options. Click here to view a list of some top online colleges and universities offering bachelor degrees. Those interested in a culinary career can click on top Culinary Schools and top Cooking Schools offering bachelors degrees.

Bachelor Degree Quotes:

"After earning a bachelor degree, my salary jumped 45%. I am so glad I can now put my bachelor degree down on my resume."

"Earning my bachelor's degree was the best decision I have ever made. The bachelors degree has opened doors that were never open before."

"Almost everyone has the opportunity to earn a bachelors degree these days. A bachelor degree will help you obtain better jobs and secure a brighter future."

"I highly encourage anyone considering it to get their bachelors degree. If I can get my bachelor degree, anyone can. You wont regret it."

"I strongly believe that a bachelors degree is essential in order to succeed in today's highly competitive job market. My bachelors degree helped open doors that were not open before."

"Possessing a bachelors degree is essential in so many industries today. The world is getting more skilled and educated. Without a bachelor degree, a job candidate will be at an disadvantage."


Is a bachelors degree worth obtaining? What is the value of a bachelor degree?

According to the Census Bureau, over an adult's working life, high school graduates earn an average of $1.2 million; associate degree holders earn about $1.6 million; and those with a bachelor degree earn about $2.1 million. That means that a bachelor degree holder earns almost double that of a high school graduate. In addition, it has been reported that bachelor degree holders save more during their lifetime. Clearly, it is worth earning a bachelor degree!


US Universities

US Colleges

Boarding School: Girls Boarding Schools-Boys Boarding Schools

Bachelor Degree Online

Master Degree Online

Associate Degree

Masters Degree: Master degree program

Film School Program: Top Film Schools Filmmaking schools

Cooking School and Culinary School: Top cooking schools top culinary schools

Online Colleges: Online college degrees-online college courses

Green Card Lottery: US green card lottery application

IT Masters

Microsoft and Charles Sturt University bring leading-edge IT Masters programme to Singapore

Programme to be offered in collaboration with Avantus Training, Microsoft's Partner of the Year 2004

SINGAPORE -- Oct. 13, 2004 -- Microsoft Singapore and Charles Sturt University, Australia's 8th largest public university and leading supplier of distance learning, announced today that they will bring the university's IT Masters programmes to Singapore.

Previously only available in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the USA, this unique series of distance learning programmes will provide Singapore's IT professionals with a fully accredited Masters Degree that includes Microsoft's premier industry certifications as an integral component.

All graduates will gain a Masters level university qualification from Charles Sturt University as well as certifications such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer: Security (MCSE:Security). The MCSD is Microsoft's premier certification for advanced developers who design and develop leading-edge enterprise solutions using Microsoft development tools and technologies as well as the Microsoft .NET Framework.

The programme comprises four Masters Degrees, namely: Master of Networking and Systems Administration (MNSA); Master of Systems Development (MSD); Master of Information Systems Security (MISS) and Master of Management (Information Technology) (MMIT). In order to be eligible to graduate, all participants will be required to pass the required university Subjects plus attain a premier industry certification such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE).

"As the Singapore economy is heavily dependent on the skills of its workforce, it is important for the country's IT professionals to constantly upgrade their skills," said Andy Zupsic, Managing Director, Microsoft Singapore. "By bringing the internationally recognised IT Masters Programme to Singapore, Microsoft is helping Singapore's professionals maintain their present and future competitive edge in the global marketplace."

"These Masters degrees are open to all IT professionals in Singapore who meet the entrance requirements," said Dr Irfan Altas, Sub Dean, IT Industry Partnerships at Charles Sturt University. "Applicants will generally be expected to have a degree in any discipline and at least two years experience in the IT industry. Applicants without an undergraduate degree wishing to be considered for admission into the Master of Systems Development will need to have at least four years of experience in the IT industry as a senior Systems Analyst or in a position developing complex systems. Students will need to pass or be awarded credit for a total of 12 subjects to graduate," said Dr Altas.

Students will have the choice of studying for their Microsoft industry certifications either via distance education or with Avantus Training Pte Ltd, one of Singapore's leading training centres for IT professionals. "This programme reinforces our mission in ensuring that every one of the professionals we train, support, and certify annually becomes successful and competitive. Having Masters tied with the industrial certifications, the modules are practical and at the same time well-rounded," said Mr KC Low, CEO of Avantus Training Pte Ltd. "The students will not only be technically equipped but also theoretically knowledgeable hence the programme will be able to open up more opportunities to all our students," said Mr Low.

The courses will start in January 2005 and will require two years to complete. All of the Masters Degrees are fully accredited under the Australian Government Qualifications Framework.

Singaporean IT professionals attending this course will be joining a community of over 35,000 students studying remotely in over 28 countries. Enrolment has started and will end on Friday, 15th November 2004. For more information, visit www.microsoft.com/singapore/technet, www.csu.edu.au or www.avantustraining.com/itmasters

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software - any time, any place and on any device.

About Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt University is the eighth largest of Australia's 37 public universities and the largest distance education provider in Australia, providing significant educational, social, cultural and economic benefits to its regions. The university has earned a reputation for working hand-in-hand with business, the professions and government to provide courses and advice to meet the demands of a changing workforce and changing times. CSU's partnerships and alliances are marked by a diversity and drive that make it distinctive from other universities in Australia.

About Avantus Training Pte Ltd

Avantus is established with the primary protocol of being recognised for our ability to be a life-long training partner and mentor for every individual. It is formed by a visionary league of dynamic management team with manifold strength and chest of experiences in the training industry.

The corporate culture focuses on the acquisition, retention and sharing of IT knowledge as the engine of success for our services. Striving to build its reputation on ensuring that every one of the professionals they train, support, and certify annually gets the personalized attention and support needed to be successful and competitive.

Besides the state of the art facilities and service excellence - Avantus winning formulae is its trainers who bring their vast experiences into the classroom. This together with their ability to engage proactively with the Microsoft team to drive synergistic programs resulted in them being awarded the following awards in August 2004 - CPLS of the Year 2004, Marketing Excellence of the Year 2004 & Partner of the Year 2004.

You can find out more about Avantus Training at http://www.AvantusTraining.com

For more information, press only:

Ong Seow Chong
Upstream Asia
Tel: (65) 6323 7377
Mobile: (65) 9761 9835
Email: chong@upstreamasia.com

Martin Hale
IT Masters
DID (61) 3 9515 3870
Mobile: (61) 419 322 844
Email: martin.hale@itmasters.com.au

Sukhdev S
Avantus Training Pte Ltd
DID : (65) 6416 3070
Mobile : (65) 94551229
Email : sukhdev@AvantusTraining.com

# # #

About The Masters Courses by Charles Sturt University and Microsoft

Master of Networking and Systems Administration (MNSA)
University Subjects: -

ITC511: Networking Concepts 1
ITC512: Networking Concepts 2
ITC513: Wireless Networking Concepts
ITC514: Network and Security Administration
ITC506: Topics in IT Ethics
ITC593: Network Security

Industry Based Subjects: -
ITI555: Operating System Essentials
ITI556: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (I)
ITI557: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (II)
ITI558: Active Directory Infrastructure
ITI559: Designing Active directories and Network Infrastructure
ITI516: Administering a SQL Server

Master of Systems Development (MSD)
University Subjects: -

ITC505: Systems Development Project Management
ITC563: IT Management Issues
ITC506: Topics in IT Ethics
ITC442: Object Modeling
Elective Subjects (choose 2 Subjects from the 5 listed)
ITC443: Database Management
ITC514: Network and Security Administration
ITC566: Human Computer Usability
ITC593: Network Security
ITC565: Business Application Development

Industry Based Subjects: -
ITI561: Developing Web Applications
ITI562: Programming with Microsoft Languages
ITI563: Developing XML Web Services
ITI564: Analyzing Requirements and Defining Solution Architectures
ITI565: Developing and Deploying Solution
ITI566: Industry Challenge

Master of Information Systems Security (MISS)
University Subjects: -

ITC596: IT Risk Management
ITC593: Network Security
ITC506: Topics in IT Ethics
ITC595: Information Security
Elective Subjects (choose 2 Subjects)
ITC443: Database Management
ITC505: Systems Development Project Management
ITC514: Network and Security Administration
ITC563: IT Management Issues
ITC566: Human Computer Useability

Industry Based Subjects: -
ITI555: Operating System Essentials
ITI556: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (I)
ITI557: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (II)
ITI558: Active Directory Infrastructure
ITI553: Designing a Secure Distributed Network
ITI581: Network Security Fundamentals

Master of Management - Information Technology (MMIT)

MCSE 2003 Stream

University Subjects: -
MGT571: Contemporary Management Practice
HRM571: Managing People in the Information Age
MGT573: Strategic Practice
MKT571: Marketing for IT Managers
FIN571: Managerial Finance
MGT572: Managing Organisational Change

Industry Based Subjects - MCSE Stream: -
ITI555: Operating System Essentials
ITI556: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (I)
ITI557: Supporting a Network Infrastructure (II)
ITI558: Active Directory Infrastructure
ITI559: Designing Active directories and Network Infrastructure
ITI516: Administering a SQL Server

Industry Based Subjects - MCSD Stream: -
ITI561: Developing Web Applications
ITI562: Programming with Microsoft Languages
ITI563: Developing XML Web Services
ITI564: Analyzing Requirements and Defining Solution Architectures
ITI565: Developing and Deploying Solution
ITI566: Industry Challenge

NUS

STUDENTS

Student Exchange Programmes (SEP)

Students from the International Studies Programme and Department of Political Science will have opportunities to participate in exchange programmes with The Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University, Peking University, and Korea University.

Applications will be open for Semester 1 and Semester 2 in February and September respectively.

Eligibility

1. All graduate students of International Studies (IS) and Political Science (PS), except those restricted under points 2 and 3 of this section, are eligible for the SEP if they:

(i) are registered full-time students;
(ii) have completed at least 4 modules (IS) or 2 modules (PS) upon admission to the Partner University;
(iii) have a minimum cumulative average point [CAP] of 3.0, and should not have any grade below 'C' in any module; and
(iv) have the minimum financial resources for personal and living expenses for the duration of the SEP.

2. Graduate students receiving the NUS Graduate Scholarship for ASEAN Nationals will not be eligible for the SEP.

3. All part-time students are not eligible for the SEP. Students interested in participating in the SEP will have to convert their status to full-time.

Responsibilities of a NUS exchange student

1. A NUS Exchange Student must receive a formal offer of admission from the Partner University before proceeding to the Partner University.

2. Students will be granted waiver from paying:
(i) Fees for the health service and sports facilities at NUS; and
(ii) Tuition fees at the Partner University.

3. Students must pay the full fees for their tuition, computer account at NUS in the respective semester for the duration of their SEP;

4. Students will be responsible for all personal and living expenses (including those for dependent/s and spouse if applicable) for the duration of their SEP.

5. Students must obtain suitable medical/health insurance from the Partner University or in the country for the duration of the SEP.

6. Students must arrange their own accommodation at their Partner University (Assistance may be sought from the SEP Coordinator at the Partner University).

7. Students must fulfil the requirements of the immigration authorities in the country of the Partner University.

8. Students must make their own visa and travel arrangements for their journey to and from the country of the Partner University.

9. Students must contact and register their personal particulars at the Diplomatic Mission of their nationality upon arrival at the Partner University (e.g. a Singapore national should contact the Singapore's Diplomatic Mission – usually in the capital city or register on-line at http://www.mfa.gov.sg).

10 Students must update their mailing and email addresses at their Programme's office in NUS.

11. Students must reimburse NUS for all costs and expenses, if NUS has to recompense the Partner University in the event of any emergency arising.


Other Matters

1. A NUS Exchange Student cannot defer the SEP to the next academic year. The NUS Exchange Student must write in to withdraw from the SEP giving reasons for the decision. These students must obtain permission from the SEP Administrator to apply for any future S E P.

2. Students will be required to submit two reports whilst on exchange at the Partner University:
(i) A mid-term progress report of at least 3 pages.
(ii) A final paper on the course of study upon completion of the SEP of at least 3 pages.

3. Returning NUS Exchange Students may be requested to complete a survey for feedback on the SEP.


Second Masters Degree: Master of International Studies - George Washington University

The Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University (GWU) would consider applications from the International Studies and Political Science graduate students to pursue the Master of International Studies (MIS) degree programme. The Elliott School's MIS will only be awarded when all degree requirements for both the Elliott School and NUS are met.

Students enrolled in the MIS degree programme at the Elliott School will be allowed to extend their stay beyond one year if necessary in order to satisfy the degree requirements.

Up to 12 credits from the NUS master's programme can be double counted towards the requirements of the MIS degree programme (3 credit hours of coursework at GWU is equivalent to 4 credit hours of coursework at NUS). By crediting studies from the NUS master's degree, NUS students at the Elliott School can receive the MIS second master's degree in less than one calendar year.

Please visit the following website for more details: http://www.gwu.edu/~elliott/academicprograms/mis/


Student Paper Series

A series of outstanding papers written by International Studies students.
Title:
The Changing Face of Contemporary Western Diplomacy

Name of Student:
Victoria Giaever-Enger


Click here for the following lists of Application Forms:
1. Conversion of Candidature
2. Extension of Candidature
3. Leave of Absence
4. Change of Title of Thesis/Desertation/Research Topic
5. Read modules offered by another Department/Faculty
6. Change of Address and Telephone Numbers
7. Insurance Scheme (GHS) Foreign Full Time Students