Life after university and getting back into education

PM2003

Mental health destroyed me at university, despite trying I was 2/4 marks (can’t remember) of a 2:2 but unfortunately left uni with a third class honours. I’ve done 10 months working as an ecological consultant and 2/3 month volunteering at a country park doing conservation as well but always wanted to work hands on in animal conservation. Handling them etc. Looking online all post graduate degrees ask for a 2:1 or 2:2. Any advice? I’m in a much better environment, grown a lot in a year and a half and truly believe I could do better. I just don’t know what to do. Any advice is welcome.

Reply 1

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Hi @PM2003

Well done on completing your degree — that’s an accomplishment in itself, especially given the personal challenges you faced at the time.

It’s encouraging to hear that you've gained practical experience in both consultancy and conservation. This kind of hands-on work is highly valued and can often be considered alongside academic qualifications when applying for postgraduate programmes.

While postgraduate courses advertise a 2:1 or 2:2 requirement, some institutions will review applications on a case-by-case basis. I would strongly suggest contacting Admissions teams directly, explaining your circumstances and highlighting your relevant experience. Some courses may offer interviews or additional assessments to support applicants who don’t quite meet the grades stated on the website.

All the best,

Megan (LJMU Postgraduate Rep)

Reply 2

PM2003

Original post

by LJMUStudentReps

Hi @PM2003
Well done on completing your degree — that’s an accomplishment in itself, especially given the personal challenges you faced at the time.
It’s encouraging to hear that you've gained practical experience in both consultancy and conservation. This kind of hands-on work is highly valued and can often be considered alongside academic qualifications when applying for postgraduate programmes.
While postgraduate courses advertise a 2:1 or 2:2 requirement, some institutions will review applications on a case-by-case basis. I would strongly suggest contacting Admissions teams directly, explaining your circumstances and highlighting your relevant experience. Some courses may offer interviews or additional assessments to support applicants who don’t quite meet the grades stated on the website.
All the best,
Megan (LJMU Postgraduate Rep)

Hi, Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. I really appreciate it. That’s a relief to hear to be honest and really encouraging. After university life felt like I’d never get anywhere with what I got, and after some experience in the field working with my degree I realised as much as I’ve loved it I’ve always wanted to be more hands on but felt it was unattainable to get more education/ qualifications with a 3rd. I will keep looking and now not be so worried that that was all I could do. Thank you again, all the best to you as well.