How to apply for the MSc
We would like to encourage you to make your application to us on-line, that way you will receive email confirmation and status updates tracking the progress of your application to a decision. You can apply on-line from the following University page: How to apply for postgraduate study Please make sure you carefully read the notes for guidance which will assist you with completion of your application. If you are unable to download the relevant information then please email fpas-mscapply@soton.ac.uk and we will post an admissions pack to you.
We ask that you include with your application evidence of prior achievement, for example, awarding degree certificate and a course transcript or, if you have yet to complete your current studies, then please include a course transcript which covers the topics and grades achieved to date. We also ask for a curriculum vitae and a personal statement of purpose which should detail why you wish to study with us, past areas you have worked in and the area of interest to you.
On receipt of your application, the University’s Admissions and Student Data Office will send an acknowledgement of receipt (email) to you and provide you with an individual admissions reference number.
MSc Admissions Office
The MSc Admissions Office in ECS receives about 4000 enquiries every year. We keep in contact with you throughout the admissions process, which normally takes about three months after you have applied. We aim to ensure you have all the information you need before you arrive here to make your first few weeks easier for you.
The admissions staff and will track your application through the admissions process
MSc ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
International Applicants
The normal requirement is a degree in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering (including Electronics) or Computer Science, or a standard equivalent to an upper second class honours degree from a UK university.
The standard of overseas qualifications is assessed using British Council guidelines. Applicants from overseas are required to provide a transcript of their academic record before a decision is taken on their applications. A pass in all subjects of the Engineering Council Part 2 examination is considered acceptable.
UK Applicants
The normal entry requirement for the MSc programme is an upper second class honours degree in a subject relevant to your chosen degree discipline (Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, or Computer Science). Other degrees will be considered if you can show that you have appropriate knowledge.
Non-graduates who have passed or been exempted from both parts of the Engineering Council examination will also be considered.
If you cannot meet the normal entry requirements but consider that you may still be a suitable candidate, please contact our Admissions Office.
English Language Requirements
The MSc courses are based on lectures, so a high level of proficiency is required in English and particularly in the understanding of spoken English. The preparation of a full-scale technical report (the MSc dissertation) is a major task that requires advanced ability and knowledge of written English as well as technical expertise.
Overseas students applying for the MSc courses should achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 (with 6.0 in all scores), or a IBTOEFL score of 92 (with reading 22, Listening 21, Speaking 23, writing 21). If you are made an offer of a place, then please note that we require original documentation of any language score report in order to satisfy a language condition.
If you are unable to meet our language entry requirement then pre-sessional English courses of six or ten-week duration may be available in the University’s Centre for Language Study. We would advise you of these courses and the costs associated as appropriate.