<h4>What is it?</h4> <p>For Master's courses, the normal entry requirement is a degree. However, universities also value skills, experience and knowledge gained through work and life and other qualifications - these can sometimes gain you entry to a Masters level course even if you do not have a degree.</p> <p>Masters level courses are known as 'postgraduate' qualifications. Generally, they lead to four main types of qualification:</p> <ul><li>postgraduate certificates</li><li>postgraduate diplomas</li><li>masters degrees</li><li>doctorates</li></ul> <p>Most types of postgraduate qualification will include taught and research elements and many offer opportunities for part time study. There are a huge range of subjects to choose from which are are often linked to a specific profession. You can study a subject that's new to you, or choose a subject that builds on the knowledge and skills you gained during employment or education.</p> <h4>Where could I study?</h4> <p>You can study for a postgraduate qualification at universities and via distance learning through the Open University and, sometimes, as an external student of a university. </p> <h4>How long will it take me?</h4> <p>Postgraduate qualifications normally take between 9 and 12 months to complete full-time or longer part-time.</p> <h4>Options after the course?</h4> <p>Postgraduate qualifications may help you enter a new field of work, help you progress in  your career, or might help you enter a job at a higher grade - evidence suggests further qualifications earn enhanced salaries: postgraduates are valued by employers for their maturity, developed research skills and commitment. You may also be able to continue academically into a PhD.</p>