Be ready for the academic demands of a UK Master’s degree
Many international students begin UK postgraduate study with strong subject knowledge, but less experience of the academic expectations they will meet: independent critical thinking, research-led writing, seminar participation, responsible use of AI and academic integrity.
The UK Research Academy helps students bridge that gap before they arrive, through a live online Pre-Master’s Research and Writing Programme designed for international students preparing for UK postgraduate study.
More than language support
Preparation for how UK universities expect students to think, read, write and participate.
Designed for UK Master’s study
Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Education and related subjects.
Live, expert-led and online
Small classes; students can complete before travelling to the UK.
Who the programme is for
International students planning to study for a Master’s degree in the UK, especially in humanities and social sciences.
Students who want to strengthen academic thinking and writing before starting their Master’s degree.
Those who want more than language support –– real academic preparation.
Students who value small classes, expert teaching, and personal guidance.
What you will gain
Critical thinking and argument
Analyse, evaluate and build stronger arguments.
Academic writing that meets UK standards
Structure, write and cite with confidence.
Research skills and methods
From questions to evidence to insight.
Responsible AI use
Use AI tools ethically and effectively.
The programme
A focused 10-week online programme combining live interactive teaching, practical assignments and personalised feedback.
Live classes with an expert tutor
Small class sizes for discussion and feedback
Practical assignments and tutor feedback
China-friendly learning platforms (e.g. Tencent Meeting, WeChat)
No tests or grades
Certificate of completion
See full programme details
Fees and apply
Pre-Master’s
£4,500
- 10-week programme
- Certificate of completion
Pre-Master’s + Premium
£7,500
The Pre-Master’s Programme, plus Premium Support during your Master’s degree.
Academic leadership
Learn from senior academics with extensive experience of postgraduate education, research training and international students.
Michael Pidd
Founder and Director
Michael is Director of the Digital Humanities Institute at the University of Sheffield. He has more than 30 years’ experience in UK higher education, spanning academic leadership, research development and postgraduate teaching. As programme lead, he developed the DHI’s Digital Humanities MA and MSc, and has extensive experience in academic skills and research methods.
Learn more about Michael
Prof. Simon Mahony
Academic Advisor and China Partnerships
Simon is Emeritus Professor of Digital Humanities at University College London and Visiting Professor at Peking University. He was formerly Director of the UCL Centre for Digital Humanities and Programme Director of UCL’s MA/MSc Digital Humanities, and has extensive experience of postgraduate education and academic collaboration in China.