Cheapest universities for a postgraduate degree

A postgraduate degree lets you explore your subject more deeply and makes you stand out in the tough job market. It all comes at a cost though, so consider this list of the cheapest universities in the UK for taught postgraduate degrees (fees are per academic year for UK/EU students studying a full-time postgraduate taught degree, commencing their course in 2019).

10. University of Chester

Current cost: £5,085–6,615

Chester offers low tuition fees for postgraduate courses, and with that you can take advantage of the high-quality facilities and services available. This includes specialist learning environments, research-active staff and an award-winning student support team.

=6. Birmingham City University

Current cost: £5,000–14,200

Choose to study at Birmingham City University and your tuition fees will go far. You’ll benefit from industry-led curriculum, outstanding support services and inspirational staff who are experts in their fields.

=6. Leeds Beckett University

Current cost: £5,000–14,000

Leeds Beckett offers over 190 postgraduate courses taught across 11 academic schools. These range from Accounting to Documentary Filmmaking, and many are accredited by professional bodies.

=6. University of the Highlands and Islands

Current cost: £5,000

The University of the Highlands and Islands is made up of 13 colleges and research centres, along with more than 70 local learning centres. It offers many online and part-time course options, helping you fit your studies around your lifestyle and other commitments.

=6. York St John University

Current cost: £5,000–10,000

York St John University's impressive facilities include laboratories, studios, IT suites and more, giving you the support you need for a quality learning experience. As a postgraduate student, you can also take advantage of the university’s industry links and entrepreneurship opportunities.

5. University of Cumbria

Current cost: £4,950–10,890

Make the most of what you save from Cumbria’s low postgraduate tuition fees by enjoying the spectacular campus locations – Carlisle, the Lake District, Lancaster and London. All offer unique experiences to shape your business CV.

4. Keele University

Current cost: £4,820–7,415

Keele University offers a wide choice of postgraduate courses that come with low tuition costs. It has the largest single-site campus in the UK – over 600 acres – where there’s a specialised and dedicated environment for postgraduate students. You’ll get access to support from respected academics and can benefit from the university’s excellent reputation for research.

3. Leeds Trinity University

Current cost: £4,500–6,500

Leeds Trinity University focuses on the employability of its students. Postgraduates from the university have become published authors, award-winning journalists and pioneers in their research fields.

2. Bangor University

Current cost: £4,327–9,250

Bangor University is first among universities in Wales for affordable postgraduate taught degrees. It offers a large variety of courses that are supported by modern facilities and gold-rated teaching (Teaching Excellence Framework 2018), all at a location set between the mountains and the sea. Unsurprisingly, student satisfaction rates here are quite high.

1. Middlesex University

Current cost: £3,650–15,500

The most affordable postgraduate taught courses in the UK can be found at Middlesex University, which lies northwest of London. With courses designed in line with industry needs and packed full of practical experiences, Middlesex is a worthwhile choice for taking your career to the next level.