Economic and Political History postgraduate degrees

The best aspect of my university experience has been the supportive learning environment and access to diverse academic and professional opportunities. The teaching staff are approachable and knowledgeable, and the university provides useful resources that help students develop both academically and professionally. Studying in a diverse community has also helped me grow in confidence and cultural awareness. The most challenging aspect has been balancing academic responsibilities with part-time work and managing living costs, especially as an international student. While support services are available, clearer guidance on financial support, employability opportunities, and tailored support for international students would further improve the overall experience. Overall, the university is a great place to study, and enhanced support in these areas would make the student experience even stronger.

I am a mature distance learning student, completing my MA in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics. The online platform is easy to use and the digital library is expansive. All staff have been easy to contact when I need any support, including IT, Finance, Admin, my personal tutor and teaching staff. I have been assigned a mentor to help me stay connected with university life and the Philosophy department. The modules are contemporary, as are the course materials. The student cohort is diverse and we all connect to the course flexibly, from different time zones. I receive a weekly events newsletter which has plenty of options for attending online webinars and socials.

Durham is a beautiful city and university with great social opportunities. The traditions are very strong at this school. It feels today like how Oxford and Cambridge were twenty years ago. Sometimes administration can be a challenge, many people have difficulty in knowing how to pay tuition and the university is slow to respond to emails. Also, there are far too many international students and just students in general. The university’s expansion plans are causing a drop in the school’s national and international rankings and causing the university to be in danger of losing its character.

I come from Madagascar, an island located in the Southern African region in the Indian Ocean. In my country, English is the third language, with French as the second, and Malagasy as our local official language. Additionally, Madagascar is one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. I earned my Master's degree in Theology from our national theological faculty before pursuing a second Master's level course at the Cambridge Centre for Christianity Worldwide (CCCW). I am deeply grateful and honored to have been admitted here, and I extend my thanks to the CCCW Board for this opportunity. My journey at CCCW has been marked by several meaningful experiences: Despite my background, I have never felt excluded. I am welcomed as part of the community, and my classmates are genuinely understanding and supportive. English proficiency is required for students from countries where English is not the first language. I am deeply thankful to my professors and classmates for their patience, as they recognize both my efforts and my progress in achieving academic-level English. I have never felt judged, and I am committed to improving daily. Lastly, the support, guidance, and attention from the professors have been invaluable. I truly admire their dedication and the advice they offer as they assist us throughout our studies.

I love the city in general. The University's libraries are good. with proper facilities that I can use, such as discussion rooms, computers, printers, even 3D printer! Some buildings look so old but in positive ways, make them look classic and cultured. However, in my own experience, some classrooms are a little bit aged. i mean, like some chairs are feel old, they are sometimes kind of wobbly, and some of them do not have enough leg room. Main library can be crowded when exam days come, but I think that is something that can not be avoided. i think it is good to add some space for classrooms or some like study hubs.

The community feel at the university of York is wonderful. The campus is always buzzing with students and has so many nice areas outside to sit and chat or decompress between lectures. Sitting by the lake and watching the swans and ducks is one of my favourite places to eat lunch with friends. Overall, I've had a great experience with interesting lecturers and supportive supervisors for lab projects, and would recommend York to anyone looking for a welcoming, well-rounded and high quality education experience at University! Improvements could be made in the delivery of information between management and students, especially regarding the future of departments to ensure all students feel represented, respected and informed about the next stages of their teaching.

Great buildings and location with great transport links to major cities. Being taught by people who are the best in that field and being able to contribute to their research at an early time in your studies. The tutorial system with very few people in classes making learning much more interactive.