Master (two-year postgraduate degree)

In short

The master is the second university cycle, over two years, M1 and M2. It specialises in a field, with more advanced courses, seminars, a placement and often a thesis. Some masters are selective on entry. It awards the master’s degree. It leads to a job, to competitive exams, or to a doctorate for those aiming at research. Semesters are paced by assessments and defences.

What goes on your cards

In a master’s, make cards of the core notions of your field, precise definitions, key references to cite, and the methods and theoretical frameworks you must explain quickly. This helps for selection interviews and competitive exams. Lumi keeps in your head what you need to write them.

A study rhythm

Keep a small daily slot for Lumi, even when the thesis takes over, so the core of the course doesn’t fade. Spaced reviews suit long projects (Rawson and Dunlosky, 2011). Before an oral or a competitive exam, widen to the whole programme. See How to make a study schedule before an exam.