Transferring to Part-Time Study

In some circumstances the University allows students, usually on the grounds of high level sporting commitments or disability and health issues, to “stretch” their Master's programme by transferring to part-time mode of study. Part-time study means you can spread modules over two years or more to ease the workload. 

A master’s programme must normally be completed in no more that than twice the time it would take to complete if studied full-time. 

We can give further advice on:

    • Student Finance 
    • The Hardship Fund
    • Accommodation 
    • Other matters

Student Finance

For many ÌìÌÃÊÓƵ Master’s programmes the standard full-time duration is one year so it needs to be completed within 2 years to remain eligible for the Master’s loan from Student Finance.  Even if you are studying for more than one year the total loan amount remains capped at £11,836 (loan rate for 22/23 entrants funded by Student Finance England). 

If you transfer to study part-time over a longer period than 2 years then you will not normally retain eligibility for a Master's Loan. 

Tuition fees 

If you stretch a year of your degree the tuition fees will generally be charged in proportion to the number of modules studies in each year. If you undertake any repeat modules from the first year during the second year of your programme and have not successfully claimed mitigating circumstances, then you can expect to pay again for the repeat modules in the second year as set out in the reassessment fees web page. 

If you need help to understand how transferring to part-time might affect your finances or if your situation is more complicated we suggest you .

Hardship Fund

If you are in unforeseen financial hardship you can apply for help from the University’s Hardship Fund. Forms are available here.

Accommodation

Transferring to part time study will not normally require any changes to your accommodation arrangements. 

As a part-time student, if you are not living in University halls you are likely to have to pay Council Tax. You can find more information about council tax on the webpage linked below.

Other Matters

Part time UK students are sometimes eligible for welfare benefits or Universal credit depending on their circumstances. This can provide help towards living costs, including rent. Please see for further information or contact to discuss your eligibility.

Last Updated: 24th November 2022