Does undergraduate class matter as much if you do a masters?

1

I was originally aiming for a 2:1 in my Biomedical Science degree, however I submitted my dissertation which was a very poor reflection of the work I am capable of and I predict that it will end up just scraping a pass/40%. I was going to apply for a masters anyway but I was just wondering if undergraduate degrees still hold the same weight if you do a masters, as I think I am going to come out with a 2:2.

Reply 1

UEA Rep Grace

10

Original post

by Ricebox

I was originally aiming for a 2:1 in my Biomedical Science degree, however I submitted my dissertation which was a very poor reflection of the work I am capable of and I predict that it will end up just scraping a pass/40%. I was going to apply for a masters anyway but I was just wondering if undergraduate degrees still hold the same weight if you do a masters, as I think I am going to come out with a 2:2.

Hiya! Sorry to hear the dissertation didn't work out as you'd hoped. I'm not quite sure what you mean in your post but usually a masters course will take your undergraduate grades as basis for whether you are eligible for a course. In most cases a 2:2 in a relevant degree is the minimum requirement so you should be fine! I would just double-check the entry requirements of the uni you want to do your masters at to make sure 😊

On the other hand, if you were asking if a masters holds the same weight as an undergrad degree to an employer, it will depend on the job but most I've seen will not mind. For instance once I graduate from my masters I'm going to ideally be looking for jobs that are masters-level (so a masters is an entry requirement for the role). And if I apply for a role which only needs an undergrad degree, my masters is a bonus! So overall don't worry about the 2:2, just use it as a stepping-stone to get to the masters.

Hope that makes sense!

Reply 2

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

18

Hi @Ricebox

From what I’ve experienced, employers may ask that candidates hold a degree, but they don't often specify the classification unless it's for certain competitive graduate schemes. A 2:2 is still a recognised achievement and demonstrates your commitment over 3–4 years, which many employers really value.

You should still be able to apply for a master's, although entry requirements can vary depending on the university and the subject — some may ask for a 2:1, but others will accept a 2:2.

Try not to worry too much — completing a degree is a huge achievement in itself, and there are always options open to you!

Hope that helps, and best of luck with your next steps 🙂

Megan (LJMU Postgraduate Rep)

Reply 3

PG Study Chester

11

Original post

by Ricebox

I was originally aiming for a 2:1 in my Biomedical Science degree, however I submitted my dissertation which was a very poor reflection of the work I am capable of and I predict that it will end up just scraping a pass/40%. I was going to apply for a masters anyway but I was just wondering if undergraduate degrees still hold the same weight if you do a masters, as I think I am going to come out with a 2:2.

Hello,

I'm really sorry to hear that your dissertation doesn't show all that you are capable of and isn't a true reflection of your undergraduate work, that is so disappointing, BUT as the other replies have said, move on from there draw a line under it and don't worry, stay positive and continue to pursue your academic journey, because, yes realistically some universities will want a 2:i class undergraduate degree, in order to progress to Masters degrees, BUT there are loads that will accept you on a 2:2 class basis, so honestly, all is not lost. When you start looking at courses, just check the admissions requirements for that course. As the application process is different to an undergrad degree, in that you apply directly to the university, if there is a course/ university that you are really interested in applying to, but the requirement is a 2:1, it might be worth contacting them and discussing your really passionate about attending, but you don't have the requirement because the dissertation pulled your mark down. There wouldn't be anything to lose by trying.

I might be totally wrong, but I always think, and in the limited world of work that I've been in, an undergraduate degree is a bit like A-Levels when you have an undergrad degree if you get me: it's a demonstration that you have committed to a number of years of study, assessment and is then a springboard to the next stage ie the degree. So whilst an undergraduate degree is important and shows the employer that you have committed to study and assessments etc, it becomes almost usurped by the Masters.

I wish you the best of luck with the next stage of your academic career, and stay positive and focused you will be fine :wavey:

If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask!
Jess
PhD English
University of Chester

Does undergraduate class matter as much if you do a masters?

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