Frequently asked questions
1. Which programmes are supported by Opportunity Bristol?
Read the descriptions below and search for programmes by subject on the Postgraduate study webpages.
Most taught master's courses focus on developing in-depth, subject knowledge; an MRes award places more emphasis on research expertise. You will still complete some taught units but these will normally focus on practical topics such as research techniques and methodological principles.
The research and study experience of an MPhil is similar to a PhD but the project is more tightly defined to allow it to be undertaken in a shorter period of full-time study. Instead of completing taught units and assessments, an MPhil consists entirely of your own independent project that is assessed through the completion of a dissertation.
An MScR award enables students to pursue a master's level degree while having dedicated time for independent research. It is a great option if you are considering doing a science-based PhD but would like a taste of a research-led degree before embarking upon doctoral-level study. Many MScR degrees can be upgraded to a PhD after one year, depending on funding and performance.
A selection of MSc programmes are also eligible for funding:
2. Do I have to declare my ethnic background in order to be eligible for this scheme?
Ethnicity is defined as special category data in UK legislation and so is a characteristic that is self-identified; applicants to the University are not obliged to provide information of this kind if they do not wish to do so.
Nonetheless, the Government does require that this data is requested in order to monitor participation and diversity across the Higher Education sector.
3. What is the evidence basis for promoting this scheme?
Evidence has clearly shown that there is a significant gap in the ethnic diversity of the Home, postgraduate communities of universities across the UK and that of the national population, an issue that is particularly acute for students of Black backgrounds.
The Opportunity Bristol programme seeks to provide financial support for this group in the transition between undergraduate and PhD level study, placing students in a better position to apply for doctoral training studentships through bridging their studies at the master’s level. The opportunity is, therefore, available to applicants who identify their background from the Black ethnic groups noted below.
- Black African
- Black Caribbean
- Black Other
- Mixed – White and Black Caribbean
- Mixed – White and Black African
- Other mixed background (to include Black African, Black Caribbean or Black Other)
4. If I chose to provide personal information to the University in order to be considered for this scheme, do I then need to provide evidence of these circumstances with my application?
No. At this stage, it is sufficient that we use the information provided in your online, master’s programme application to advise us of your circumstances so that we may then evaluate your application for this funding scheme.
5. What should I include in my personal statement to help my application for funding from this scheme?
This scheme provides support for applicants who are interested in a future career in research; perhaps within a university, business or other organisation. A key aim is to place students in a better position to be able to apply for funded, doctoral training studentships through successful studies at the master’s level.
Therefore, in addition to the requirements noted in the Admissions guidance for your chosen programme ( http://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/search/) to demonstrate your academic excellence and potential, your personal statement should include general details of your ideas and aspirations for your future career. It is also helpful to hear of previous interests and experiences in your life that may have led to these preferences and any emerging career goals.
6. Can I study for my master’s degree part-time and still be considered for support from this scheme?
Yes. Please ensure that your chosen programme is available for part-time study and mention this in your online application for admission. More information is available on our website.
7. I already have some funding confirmed for my studies (e.g., a Student Loan or another scholarship or bursary). If I am accepted for admission to my chosen master’s programme, am I still eligible for support from this scheme?
Yes. However, if you are successful in being awarded an Opportunity Bristol studentship and intend to also access funding from one or more of these other sources, please check that receipt of the Opportunity Bristol studenship does not affect your eligibility to continue to receive those additional, financial contributions.
8. Why are only a small selection of MSc programmes eligible for this scheme?
As this scheme is designed to increase diversity within the research community and provide a springboard to a career in research, MSc programmes selected have been chosen where there are no suitable MRes, MPhil or MScR research courses available and where specific taught courses are required for entry, or provide an appropriate bridge, to PhD opportunities.
9. Who should I contact if I have other questions?
If you have any further questions, please email Kevin Higgins.