Higher Education Management

UCL's Management Science BSc programme is unlike any other degree in the UK. It provides you with an opportunity to develop strong quantitative and analytical skills, an in-depth understanding of how companies work, and a rigorous foundation in the key skills needed to build a successful career with global companies and high-growth businesses tackling world-scale problems.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Years one and two will consist of core modules relating to the day-to-day operation of business – strategy, marketing, accounting and finance. This will be underpinned by fundamental modules in foundational mathematics, quantitative methods, systems design and analysis, and behavioural science. These modules will be taken alongside students from across UCL Engineering and will bring an interdisciplinary edge to your studies, helping you to look at problems from multiple viewpoints and to tackle challenges from a wider engineering perspective.

In your third year you will continue with advanced modules and may also choose a particular area (for example business analysis, entrepreneurship, financial engineering) in which to specialise according to your interests and the potential career direction you wish to take. You will also undertake a dissertation.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

Mathematics required.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A score of 18 points in three higher level subjects, including grade 6 in Mathematics, with no score lower than 5.

Tuition fees for the MSc in Higher Education Management at University College London vary depending on the student’s residency status. For the 2023/2024 academic year, international students are charged approximately £30,200 per year, while UK and EU students pay around £11,100 per year. These fees cover tuition, access to university facilities, and participation in workshops and seminars. Additional costs may include course materials, books, and personal expenses, which are not included in the tuition fee. Students are encouraged to explore various funding options, including government-sponsored loans, scholarships, and bursaries provided by UCL and external organizations.

UCL offers several scholarships specific to postgraduate students, such as the UCL Regional London Hardship Fund and other faculty-based awards, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. Applicants are advised to check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for these awards early in the admission process. Furthermore, the university recommends prospective students consider the possibility of part-time work, either within the university or externally, to support their living expenses during their studies.

Cost of living in London should be taken into account when planning your finances for this programme. Estimated monthly living costs, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses, range from approximately £1,200 to £1,500. Students are advised to budget accordingly and explore accommodation options early, as housing in central London can be competitive and expensive.

In addition to standard tuition fees, students may also need to cover expenses related to visa applications, health insurance, and any required travel for fieldwork or conferences. International students should ensure they meet the UK visa requirements and prepare the necessary documentation and finances ahead of their studies.

Funding opportunities are available through various schemes, including the UK government’s postgraduate loans for eligible students, which can provide up to £11,000 to cover tuition and living costs. These loans are repayable after graduation, based on income levels, and are a popular choice among students pursuing postgraduate degrees in the UK.

Overall, financing a degree in Higher Education Management at UCL requires careful planning and consideration of all potential costs. The university’s financial aid services offer guidance and assistance in identifying suitable funding options. Prospective students are encouraged to start their financial planning early to ensure they can fully participate in the programme without undue financial hardship.

The MSc in Higher Education Management at University College London is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that underpin higher education institutions worldwide. This programme aims to develop strategic thinking, leadership skills, and a deep knowledge of policy and operational issues facing universities today. The curriculum covers various aspects of higher education management, including governance, finance, academic leadership, student experience, and internationalization. Students will explore contemporary challenges such as funding models, technological advancements, curriculum development, equality and diversity, and the impact of globalization on higher education.

The programme employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining insights from management, policy analysis, and educational theory. It is suitable for professionals aspiring to senior management roles within universities or those seeking to influence higher education policy and practice. Courses are delivered through lectures, seminars, case studies, and group work, encouraging active participation and critical discussion. Research components enable students to analyze real-world issues, produce policy recommendations, or undertake investigative projects pertinent to their interests.

Students benefit from UCL’s global reputation and extensive network within the higher education sector, providing opportunities for networking, internships, and engagement with leading academics and industry experts. The programme may include guest lectures, workshops, and site visits to educational institutions, enriching the learning experience. Graduates typically pursue careers in university administration, policymaking, consultancy, or further academic research. The MSc in Higher Education Management prepares students for leadership roles by enhancing their understanding of complex organizational structures, strategic management, and the socio-political context of higher education systems.

The duration of the programme is generally one year for full-time students or part-time options may be available. Entry requirements typically include a relevant undergraduate degree and professional experience in education or management, although specific requirements should be verified directly through the university. The programme is continually updated to ensure relevance amid evolving higher education landscapes, integrating current issues such as digital transformation and international competitiveness. Overall, this MSc provides a rigorous academic foundation blended with practical management skills, aimed at preparing the next generation of higher education leaders.