35 Outstanding UK Universities That Accept Third-Class for Masters

Reviewed by Soliu.

Some top UK Universities that accept third-class for masters include Northumbria University, University of East London, University of Central Lancashire, Glyndŵr University, University of Cumbria, etc.

For those looking to pursue a master’s degree in the United Kingdom but may not have a stellar undergraduate academic record, there is still hope! Several universities accept 3rd class for masters in the UK. 

These universities offer master’s degree programs in various fields, such as Business, law, and education. They also provide excellent support and resources to help students succeed. So, if you have your heart set on a master’s degree from a UK university, don’t despair – options are available.

While some universities in the UK might have strict entry requirements, others may be more flexible, significantly, if you can demonstrate other strengths. Suppose you wish to pursue a master’s degree in the UK with a third-class degree.

In that case, it’s essential to understand that your acceptance will often depend on various factors beyond your undergraduate grade.

Below are some factors that determine your acceptance to these UK Universities that accept third-class for Masters;

• Relevant Work Experience: If you’ve been working in a field related to the master’s program you want to pursue, this could significantly enhance your application.
  
• Strong Personal Statement: This is your opportunity to explain your passion for the subject and why you want to study it at the postgraduate level.
  
• References: Strong letters of recommendation can make a significant difference.
• Portfolio: A good portfolio can sometimes outweigh academic grades for courses like art and design.
  
• Interview Performance: Some universities might conduct interviews. Performing well in these can work in your favour.
  

As for specific universities that might accept a third class for a master’s program, it varies. Here’s a general approach that you may consider; 

• Postgraduate Pre-Master’s Programs: Some universities offer pre-master’s courses designed to help students improve their academic skills before pursuing a complete master’s degree.

• Newer or Less Established Universities: Older, more established universities might have stricter entry requirements, but newer institutions might be more flexible.

• Specific Departments or Faculties: Even within a university, acceptance criteria can vary by department. It’s worth checking with the specific department or faculty offering the course you’re interested in.

• Directly Contact Universities: This is perhaps the most effective method. By directly contacting the admissions office of the universities you’re interested in, you can explain your situation, and they can guide you on your chances or any additional steps you might take to improve your application.

However, the reality is that most top-tier universities in the UK have stringent entry requirements and may not accept a third-class degree for direct entry into a master’s program. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. 

You might need to take a more roundabout route, such as completing a postgraduate diploma in your field first or gaining some relevant work experience.

UK universities that accept third-class for masters

For you to be sure if a specific university accepts a 3rd class honors degree for master’s programs in the UK, it would require a detailed search into each University’s current admission policies. 

Below are some of the top UK universities that accept third-class for Masters degree with more flexible entry requirements:

1. Northumbria University (Newcastle)

This University has been known for its pathways and foundation programs for students. The University has a variety of master’s programs available in a range of subject areas, such as Business, engineering, law, and more. 

Areas such as Business, arts, and some engineering programs might be more open to considering third-class degrees, mainly if compensated by other strengths.

2. University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is a highly-regarded institution open to students with a 3rd class degree for their master’s programs. UCLan has campuses in Preston, Burnley, and Cyprus and offers a wide range of master’s degree programs, including those in engineering, medicine, and law. 

UCLan is also known for its research and innovation, with many research institutes and centers focused on topics such as digital forensics, health, and cultural heritage. Some programs might have more flexible requirements, especially if coupled with relevant experience.

3. Glyndŵr University (Wrexham)

Glyndŵr University, located in Wrexham, Wales, is another excellent option for students with a 3rd class degree who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree. The University offers master’s degree programs, including Business, sports, and social science. 

Glyndŵr University is known for its strong focus on internationalization and has partnerships with institutions worldwide. So, if you’re looking for a globally-minded university that offers a range of master’s degree programs, Glyndŵr University is worth considering.

4. University of Bolton

This University has historically shown flexibility for mature students or those with significant work experience. It is one of the universities that accept 3rd class for masters in the UK.

5. Kingston University (London)

While many courses have standard requirements, some may consider extensive work experience as a compensating factor for lower grades.

6. University of Cumbria

The University of Cumbria, located in Carlisle, England, is another university that accepts students with a 3rd class degree for their master’s programs. The University offers master’s degree programs, including Business, tourism, and education. 

The University of Cumbria also strongly focuses on sustainability and the environment, with many research centers dedicated to exploring these topics. If you’re interested in studying at a university committed to sustainability and the environment, the University of Cumbria is a great option.

7. Birmingham City University

The University has a range of postgraduate courses, some of which consider applicants with lower second and third-class degrees if they have other strengths.

8. University of Derby

Emphasizes real-world experience, so relevant work experience might compensate for academic grades in some courses.

9. University of the West of Scotland

Some programs offer places based on a holistic view of an applicant, including work placements, professional qualifications, and life experience.

10. University of West London (UWL)

The University is known for its vocationally oriented courses and strong industry links. Depending on the faculty, some programs, especially those in arts and Business, might offer more flexibility in admissions.

UWL often seeks students who have practical experience. This makes it a suitable choice for those with work experience alongside their third-class degree.

11. London Metropolitan University

This University offers a diverse student population and focuses on Arts, Business, and social sciences. Their courses have more flexible entry criteria for the master’s degree. It is a good choice if you want to further your education. 

12. University of Wolverhampton

This University places a strong emphasis on employability and entrepreneurial opportunities. Courses in arts, humanities, and social sciences might offer more flexibility.

13. University of Greenwich

Business and humanities programs often consider experience and potential alongside academic achievements.

Why Consider Greenwich?: Its reputation for research and proximity to London’s business and arts sectors can provide a rich learning environment.

14. University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland is a well-respected institution that also accepts students with a 3rd class degree for their master’s programs. The University has campuses throughout the northeast of England, including Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong. 

The University offers a range of master’s degree programs, including those in engineering, healthcare, and management. The University of Sunderland is also known for its strong focus on employability, with a dedicated Careers and Employability service that helps students to find employment after graduation.

15. Teesside University

This University is known for its excellent focus on employability and a good student experience. Business, arts, and social sciences may offer flexibility for admissions.

With strong industry links and state-of-the-art facilities, it offers an immersive learning experience.

16. Middlesex University

Middlesex University, located in London, is a highly-regarded institution that offers a variety of master’s degree programs for students with a 3rd class undergraduate degree. The University has a range of courses available in areas such as Business, law, and health, which provides a supportive environment for all its students. 

Middlesex also focuses on employability, ensuring its graduates are well-equipped to succeed in the job market after graduation. If you’re looking for some of the top UK universities that accept third-class for masters, Middlesex is a great option.

17. University of Bedfordshire

The University of Bedfordshire, located in the English county of Bedfordshire, is another excellent option for students with a 3rd class degree who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the UK. 

The University offers many master’s degree programs, including Business, law, and health. It strongly focuses on internationalization, with a diverse student body from all over the world. In addition, the University provides support services to help its students succeed, including a dedicated International Office.

18. Solent University (Southampton)

The Solent University, located in Southampton, England, is another university that accepts students with a 3rd class degree for their master’s programs. The University offers a variety of master’s degree programs, including those in Business, law, and education. 

The Solent University is also known for its strong research focus. It has many research centers dedicated to exploring new and innovative approaches to various subjects.

19. Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) 

This is a public university based in Canterbury, Kent, England. The university was founded in 1962 as a Church of England teacher training college and has grown to become a well-respected and internationally recognized institution. 

CCCU offers a wide range of postgraduate programs, including master’s degrees and accepts 3rd class degrees. The university is known for its commitment to providing an excellent education at an affordable price and for its friendly and supportive atmosphere. In addition, CCCU has been ranked as one of the best universities in the UK for student satisfaction.

20. University of Bolton

The University emphasizes smaller class sizes and prides itself on its modern approach to teaching and learning.

They offer arts, Business, and health sciences programs, which may sometimes provide more lenient entry routes, especially for mature students.

Other UK Universities that accept 3rd class for masters

21. University of Derby

22. University of Northampton

23. University of Plymouth

24. University of Huddersfield

25. Staffordshire University

26. Leeds Beckett University

27. Anglia Ruskin University

28. Edinburgh Napier University

29. Liverpool John Moores University 

30. University of East London (UEL)

31. Sheffield Hallam University

32. University of South Wales

Note that this list does not guarantee admission for individuals with a 3rd class degree. Each applicant is considered based on their application, including work experience, personal statement, references, and other supporting documents.

Some universities might offer ‘pre-master’s’ courses or foundation courses for students who don’t meet the direct entry requirements for their master’s programs. Upon successfully completing these courses might provide a pathway to the primary master’s course.

Contact the University’s admissions department for the most accurate and updated information.

Other Considerations

• Postgraduate Pre-Master’s Programs: These programs aim to serve as a link between a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. They help students meet the academic and English language requirements needed to study a master’s course.

• Professional Experience: As mentioned earlier, many universities value professional experience. For some courses, especially those that are more vocational, professional experience can be just as important, if not more so, than academic qualifications.

• Additional Courses: In some cases, taking additional courses or certifications related to your field of interest might be beneficial. This demonstrates commitment to the subject and helps bolster your academic profile.

Lastly, while the universities mentioned above have shown flexibility in the past, always check the specific course entry requirements and consult the University’s admissions department directly. Admission criteria might change yearly and even within different faculties of the same University.

Conclusion 

A 3rd class undergraduate degree should not stand in the way of pursuing a master’s degree at a UK university. Many universities are willing to accept students with this type of degree, and many resources are available to help students succeed.

Understand that a 3rd class degree does not define a person’s intelligence or potential. With hard work, anyone can achieve their academic goals. So, for those considering pursuing a master’s degree, do not let a 3rd class degree stop you – the possibilities are endless!

If you know any top UK universities that accept third-class for Masters but are not on this list, kindly mention it in the comment section.