Breaking down barriers to postgraduate study: Taking an access approach through the 'Get into Masters' Study' initiative

Widening access and participation in higher education now celebrates decades of success in UK Higher Education (HE), particularly at undergraduate entry-level. Yet similar work at entry-level for postgraduate study is less explored, where due to the increased emphasis on Graduate Outcomes in UK HE, there is increasing demand and aspiration for postgraduate study from policy makers and students. This research note reports on a series of presentation workshops from the University of Winchester (UK), titled the 'Get into Masters' Study' initiative. These presentations were delivered in an access approach across Level 5 students to break down barriers to postgraduate study through explaining the practicalities, different options and finances relating to postgraduate study, so students are able to make an informed choice. This paper details the approach taken and topics covered to inform practice elsewhere, as students increasingly look towards postgraduate study to gain further experiences and enhance their career beyond their degree.