Here are some of the questions that you might have about the two-year masters with professional practice courses. If you've got any other questions, just get in touch with us today.

Please note: Some of the information below is only relevant to international students, for example, recommendations to contact our VISA Team.

What are the requirements to undertake the professional practice part of the course?

You must achieve a minimum of 60% average in your final grade at the end of year one and you must also find a suitable work placement.

What happens if I don’t achieve the requirements?

You will be transferred to the one-year masters course in your chosen discipline, without the professional practice.

For example, if you are studying Marketing you will graduate with MSc Marketing rather than MSc Marketing (with Professional Practice).

How do I get a placement?

GCU cannot guarantee you a placement, but we will support and assist you in finding one and will be reaching out to our extensive professional network to generate interest and demand.

We will also help prepare you for the recruitment process to ensure you are in the best position possible to secure a work placement.

What happens if I don't secure a placement?

You will graduate with the one-year masters course in your chosen discipline, without the professional practice title.

Can I move to the two-year masters if I have applied for the one-year masters?

Yes, however the same eligibility criteria stated above will apply.

If you are considered eligible to add the professional practice placement (PPP) to your course, you should contact the VISA Team as soon as possible, to receive advice on extending your Tier 4 visa in the UK to allow time to complete the PPP.

Am I eligible for any scholarship opportunities?

The New 2 GCU, loyalty discount and early payment discount will apply to all of our two-year courses.

Find out more about scholarships here.

When should I contact the VISA Team to extend my visa if I am eligible to add the PPP to my course?

You should contact the VISA Team as soon as possible once you know whether you are able to add the PPP to your course.

For 12-month courses beginning in September, your Assessment Board will meet in June of the following year, where your average marks will be calculated for eligibility.

For the 16-month courses beginning in January, your Assessment Board will meet in February of the following year, where your average marks will be calculated for eligibility.

What documents should I prepare for the visa extension application?

Please visit our website www.gcu.ac.uk/visa for detailed information and comprehensive guides on the requirements for the Tier 4 (General) student visa extension.

When you come to receive initial advice from the VISA Team, you will be provided with a personalised checklist which outlines the documents you will require including the amount of maintenance funds you are required to show and the visa application costs.

Our dedicated VISA Advisors are on hand to assist you with this process and answer any questions you may have.

Will I be granted a visa long enough to undertake my PPP?

If you apply and are accepted for a two-year masters course and also successfully apply for a visa, you will granted a visa long enough to complete this course, including the PPP.