Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This diploma focuses on the core language and academic skills required for postgraduate study in the UK. Teaching combines classroom input, seminar discussion, guided self‑study and formative assessment. Typical modules and subject areas include:

• Academic English for Postgraduate Study – advanced grammar, academic vocabulary development, and fluency in spoken and written English.
• Reading and Critical Thinking – strategies for efficient academic reading, critical analysis of journal articles and synthesising literature.
• Academic Writing and Discourse – structure and conventions of essays, reports and literature reviews; argumentation, paraphrasing, and appropriate referencing practices.
• Presentation and Seminar Skills – preparing and delivering academic presentations, chairing and contributing to seminars, and using appropriate academic register.
• Research Skills and Study Strategies – introduction to research methods, academic integrity, data handling basics and independent learning skills for postgraduate study.
• Listening and Note‑taking – understanding lectures, taking effective notes and following fast academic discourse.
• Assessment Preparation – formative assessments, timed essays, and mock seminars to build confidence ahead of progression to a master’s course.

Classes are often supplemented with one‑to‑one tutorials, diagnostic feedback and access to the university’s learning support services. Teaching emphasises authentic academic tasks and includes practice with the types of assignments and assessment formats used on Oxford Brookes postgraduate programmes.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification and demonstrate readiness for postgraduate study in their chosen field. International applicants must show evidence of English language ability. Typical requirements may be expressed as an equivalent of recognised English tests and will vary according to the intended destination master's programme; the programme team will advise on the level you need to progress.

Admission normally involves submission of academic transcripts and a personal statement. In some cases the offer may be conditional on achieving specified language outcomes during the diploma, and the department may request a short interview or written sample to assess suitability.

Career prospects

The Pre‑Masters Diploma is primarily a progression route into postgraduate study rather than direct vocational training. Successful completion enables students to move into a wide range of master’s programmes at Oxford Brookes or other UK universities, including taught and research degrees across business, social sciences, humanities and applied disciplines.

Graduates who go on to complete master’s degrees commonly pursue careers in fields such as education, research, project management, public service, communications, and international organisations. Strong academic English, research skills and the ability to present and argue complex ideas are transferable to professional roles that require clear written and oral communication, critical thinking and independent learning.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes combines a supportive learning environment with a strong emphasis on employability and applied learning. The university’s English language teaching is delivered by experienced staff who specialise in preparing international students for UK study, and students benefit from integrated academic support services including writing centres, language workshops and study skills tutors.

Located in the historic city of Oxford, the university offers access to a rich academic community and resources while maintaining a friendly campus atmosphere. The Pre‑Masters Diploma is designed with clear progression pathways to many of the university’s postgraduate programmes, helping international students to transition smoothly to the demands of master’s study in the UK.