The Pre-Master’s Research and Writing Programme
Prepare for the academic expectations of UK Master’s degree study. A 10-week online programme for international students. Build the research, writing and critical thinking skills you need to succeed in a UK Master’s degree programme from day one.
Designed by UK academics
100% online and interactive
Small classes with expert guidance
Who the programme is for
The programme is especially suitable for students preparing for Master’s study in the humanities, social sciences and related subjects, where critical reading, academic writing, literature reviews, research questions and seminar discussion are central to success.
The programme is designed for students who want stronger academic preparation before starting their Master’s degree. It is not a university pathway programme and does not guarantee admission to a degree programme.
Programme dates
The Pre-Master’s Programme runs three times per year and lasts 10 weeks. Live seminars are held on Tuesday or Thursday evenings, 19:00–21:00 China time. When you apply, you can tell us your preferred class group.
| Spring programme | March – May |
| Summer programme | June – August |
| Autumn programme | October – December |
What students will learn
By the start of their UK Master’s degree, students will be better able to:
Programme format
10 weeks
Focused, intensive online preparation
Live 2-hour seminar each week
Interactive workshops with expert tutors
Guided task each week
Apply learning and receive feedback
Learning materials
Readings, guides and resources
Structured class interaction
Discussions, activities and peer learning
Periodic group clinic
individual and small group support
Programme structure
Foundations of UK postgraduate study
This phase helps students understand the expectations, habits and academic culture of UK postgraduate study.
Research and writing development
This phase develops the core academic skills students need for postgraduate writing, research and argument-building.
Performance, AI and transition
This phase helps students translate their preparation into responsible academic practice, confident participation and first-semester readiness.
Weekly overview
Starting strong — understanding UK expectations
Students are introduced to the key expectations of UK Master’s study, including independent learning, critical engagement, argument-led writing, seminar participation and responsible use of support.
Reading critically
Students learn how to read academic texts with purpose. They practise identifying arguments, evidence, structure and key concepts, rather than reading only for basic comprehension.
Managing independent study and academic workload
This phase helps students translate their preparation into responsible academic practice, confident participation and first-semester readiness.
Moving from summary to analysis
Students practise moving beyond summary by analysing how sources work, why they matter, and how they can be used to support a wider argument.
Building academic arguments
Students learn how to develop a clear academic argument using claims, evidence, reasoning and structure. The week helps students move from presenting information to making a reasoned case.
Structuring a literature review
Students learn how to approach the literature review as an organised discussion of existing research. They practise grouping sources, comparing positions and identifying themes, debates or gaps.
Developing research questions and understanding methods
Students learn how to move from a broad topic to a clearer research question. They are also introduced to the relationship between research questions, evidence, methods, scope and theoretical frameworks.
Using AI responsibly in academic work
Students learn how to use AI tools responsibly in academic study. The week focuses on academic integrity, verification, transparency, over-reliance, institutional policy and the need to remain responsible for their own thinking and writing.
Participating confidently in seminars and presentations
Students develop strategies for contributing to seminars, group discussions, online classes and short presentations. The focus is on preparation, useful academic language and confidence-building.
Transitioning into the first semester
Students review their progress, identify areas for continuing development and create a personal first-semester academic action plan.
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.
Fees and Apply
Pre-Master’s
£4,500
The Pre-Master’s Research and Writing Programme
- 10-week programme
- All live classes
- All educational materials
- Assignments and feedback
- Certificate of completion
Pre-Master’s + Premium
£7,500
Pre-Master’s Programme, plus Premium Support during your UK Master’s degree:
- 10-week Pre-Master’s Programme
- Mentoring sessions during your Master’s degree
Premium support
Optional one-to-one academic guidance during your Master’s degree.
Available to students enrolled on the Pre-Master’s Research and Writing Programme, Premium Support helps you apply your skills during your degree while continuing to work independently and responsibly.