Your Plan

Deciding to pursue a master’s degree is an exciting step forward. Whether you are looking to change career paths, upskill in your current industry, or just follow a subject you love, postgraduate study opens a lot of doors. However, finding the right course can feel a bit overwhelming. 

That is exactly why open evenings exist. Attending a postgraduate open event is your golden opportunity to look behind the curtain, meet the teaching staff, and find out if UWS is the right fit for you. 

Here is your game plan for getting the absolute most out of your visit. 
 

1. Do your homework before you arrive 

Spend some time on the UWS website beforehand to familiarise yourself with the programmes you are interested in. Doing a little prep work means you avoid asking basic questions and can focus on the specific details that really matter to you. 

Things to check online first: 

  • Module structures, core subjects, and optional electives
  • Entry requirements and upcoming application deadlines
  • Teaching methods and how the course is assessed

Top Tip: Make a list of questions before you leave the house and keep them in your phone's notes app. It is very easy for your mind to go blank when you are standing in a busy, buzzing hall! 

 

2. Grill the academics (politely) 

The teaching staff are the stars of the show. These are the experts who will be guiding you through your degree, so do not be shy about introducing yourself. Whether you speak to a programme leader or a specific lecturer, they genuinely want to hear about your background and what you hope to achieve. 

Key topics to cover:

  • Their current research and how it ties into the curriculum
  • Connections to industry and potential networking opportunities
  • Support offered to postgraduate students
  • Ideas you have for a dissertation topic or research project 

3. Speak to current students

While the staff give you the academic rundown, current students offer the unfiltered reality of studying at UWS. They have been exactly where you are right now and know what it takes to succeed. 

Great questions to ask: 

  • How do you manage your time and balance your workload? 
  • What is the social life and campus culture like for postgraduates? 
  • Where are the absolute best quiet places to study? 
  • Are there any clubs or societies you recommend joining? 
     

4. Sort out the practicalities 

Postgraduate study is an investment in your future. Open evenings always have dedicated support staff available, so make a point of having a chat with them to get a clear picture of the logistics. 

Make sure you ask about: 

  • Student support: Ask about academic skills workshops, career advice, and health and wellbeing services. 

5. Take a look around 

Do not leave without taking a proper wander around the campus. You are going to be spending a lot of time here, so it is important that the environment feels right. 

Be sure to check out: 

  • Dedicated postgraduate study spaces 
  • The library layout and digital resources 
  • Specialist facilities, studios, or labs relevant to your course 
  • The best spots to grab a coffee between classes 
     

6. Follow up 

When you get home, take five minutes to review your notes while everything is still fresh in your mind. If you spoke to an academic and found their advice particularly helpful, send them a quick email thanking them for their time. It is a fantastic way to start building a professional relationship before the semester even begins. 

An open evening is what you make of it. Turn up prepared, keep an open mind, ask lots of questions, and take advantage of having all the experts in one room. 

Ready to take the next step? Sign up for our next event here: www.uws.ac.uk/study/open-days-info-sessions/postgraduate-open-evenings-and-events 

Last updated: 09/09/2026