What are the main types of taught postgraduate study?

Masters

Courses at taught masters level:

lead to qualifications such as Master of Science, Master of Arts or Master of Letters

are generally 12 months long in the UK and contain 180 CATS credits

can be specialist and career-related (for example the Master of Business Studies or Masters in Business Administration)

in some cases 'integrate' with an undergraduate degree to form a single course on which students gradually specialise.

Postgraduate diplomas and certificates

These courses are as academically challenging as a taught masters but are generally shorter and contain fewer CATS credits (120 for a diploma, 60 for a certificate).

Professional or vocational qualifications

These courses improve or develop the skills required for a specific job. For example, a Legal Practice Course can lead to graduates becoming qualified solicitors.