Program Overview

Pre-Masters Programme at our International Study Centre prepares you for your degree at Lancaster University. You will focus on English language, university-level study skills, and academic modules that relate to your degree subject.

Your postgraduate preparation
The Pre-Masters Programme is available over two or three terms at the International Study Centre, providing you with the skills necessary for postgraduate study at Lancaster University. You will  build on the knowledge gained in your earlier studies whilst developing your practical English language and mathematical abilities, as well as study and research skills.

You will develop an intellectual appreciation of issues relevant to your chosen degree through classes designed specifically for international students. These will be based on study and careers skills, as well as subject specific modules, which prepare you for your chosen Masters degree at Lancaster.

How does it work?
When you apply to the International Study Centre, you will choose between two pathways, depending on your career aims. Upon acceptance to the Pre-Masters Programme, you will also receive a conditional offer to study a Masters degree at Lancaster University after successful completion of your Pre-Masters.

Engineering, Computing, Mathematics and Science
The Pre-Masters Programme in Engineering, Computing, Mathematics and Science ensures you are prepared for postgraduate study at Lancaster University. Students on this programme can progress to a variety of scientific degrees.

Programme structure
Throughout the programme, you will study subject specific modules to develop a deeper understanding of your chosen area. You will also study core English language modules that will develop both your language and academic skills to the level required for Masters study in the UK, as well as building your ability to study at postgraduate level by improving your research and critical analysis abilities.

Environment and Development
The need for sustainable development is a global concern. This interdisciplinary, flexible Masters degree prepares you to address the challenges faced in safeguarding natural resources, livelihoods and the alleviation of development problems.

This programme is ideal for those with a natural sciences background wishing to focus on environmental science with a perspective of social science, and for those who plan a career in international development or in an environmental field, in the private, public, or not-for-profit sectors.

You will be based within one of the largest groups of geographers, resource management specialists and environmental scientists in the UK whose specialities span the social and natural sciences. Modules will be taught by world-leading researchers. 

You will complete six taught modules and a dissertation research project, with individual supervision from a research-active expert. On this MSc you will take one core module “Perspectives in Environment and Development”, and five optional modules, of which at least three must be natural-sciences focused. Those who prefer a social-science focused programme are advised to take the MA.

We offer great flexibility with over 30 optional modules to choose from, spanning the social and natural sciences, and with the opportunity to gain key practical skills that are valued by employers, such as environmental analysis of development projects, data analysis and programming, geo-informatics and auditing. This enables you to construct a degree that fits your interests and career ambitions and to put your learning in a wider cultural context. 

Your dissertation project forms a substantial part of your Masters degree. It will enhance your practical and analytical skills and give you the opportunity to apply your learning to a real-world challenge. Dissertation topics are available in both environmental and development themes. A combination of natural and social science elements is popular, and you are free to devise your own tailor-made project, in collaboration with your dissertation supervisor. Our research projects and partners across the globe provide exciting possibilities for overseas fieldwork opportunities when you are choosing your dissertation topic.