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About the Pre-Masters at Heriot-Watt
International students who would like to study on a postgraduate course at Heriot-Watt University but do not meet the direct entry requirements for a masters degree or who simply want to refresh their knowledge can study the Pre-Masters programme at the International Study Centre.
In preparation for a masters degree at Heriot-Watt, the Pre-Masters programme offers international students:
- A range of academic and learning skills which the students may not have experienced in their home country
- The ability to adapt to a new cultural environment and thrive academically
- The right academic qualification and substantial understanding of their chosen subject
- The ability to use English in the academic environment to a high standard
The programme
The Pre-Masters programme is designed specifically to meet the needs of international students. The programme consists of academic subjects and English language training. The length of the course is dependent on the level of English Language training the student requires:
Two term Pre-MastersFor students with IELTS 6.0 or equivalent English Language level.Find out more about the two term programme |
Three term Pre-MastersFor students with IELTS 5.0 or equivalent English Language level.Find out more about the three term programme |
Progression to a masters degree
All students joining the pre-masters programme at Heriot-Watt will receive a conditional offer of a place on a choice of masters degrees at the university. Providing the students successfully complete the course they will then progress directly on to their chosen masters.
Personal monitoring and support
The Pre-Masters is validated by Heriot-Watt University and taught by specialists in university preparation. Students’ progress is monitored at all times to make sure that they remain on track tosuccessfully complete the programme.
Assessment
To ensure that students achieve the standard required for progression onto their chosen postgraduate degree, their development is assessed regularly throughout the course.
Assessment is carried out through:
- Coursework assignments
- Unseen final examinations at the end of each module
- Presentations
- Extended essays and case studies
