Royal Holloway, University of London, Pre-Master's Diploma, Pre-Masters Diploma for International Students (PDIS)

Core Modules

• English language and academic skills (50% of the programme)

A main focus of the programme is to develop your English language and study skills in preparation for postgraduate study. You will learn how to read academic texts efficiently and critically; follow lectures and note key points; structure essays into coherent arguments; write in a formal, academic style; take part in academic discussions and give presentations.

• Independent Research Project (25% of the programme)

All UK postgraduate courses will require you to write a dissertation or research project. The PDIS helps prepare you for this through an 8,000-10,000 word Independent Research Project on a topic relevant to your chosen postgraduate programme. You will be introduced to research methods as well as other relevant skills through a special support course and regular one-to-one guidance provided by your Personal Tutor and a subject specialist supervisor in the chosen area.

Elective Module (25% of the programme)

• Academic study in a Royal Holloway department 

Pre-Masters students choose one module in the department of their choice. To prepare you for academic study at a postgraduate level, you will take an academic course unit (or two half-units) alongside British and other nationality undergraduates. The academic course will normally be based in the department in which you wish to study your postgraduate degree. This immersion in an academic department offers an important first-hand experience of university study in a UK context which will give you a head-start when you commence your Masters course.