January start Masters degrees
Study one of our internationally-recognised Masters degrees at a time of year that suits you. If the traditional September start doesn't line up with your plans or ambitions, our January intake offers you a chance to kick off your studies when you are ready.
Start your Masters study at a time that suits you
September starts are not for everyone. That’s why we offer a range of Masters degrees starting in January, giving you the option to begin your postgraduate studies in the new year. Starting your degree in January offers clear professional benefits, allowing you to enter the job market at a less crowded time and giving you a head start with employers.
We recognise that postgraduate study must fit around professional, personal and academic commitments. Our January start Masters allow you to complete your degree within a single calendar year.
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Why choose a January start?
Ideal for International Students
January starts are perfect for international students. They give you more time to secure your visa and arrange your accommodation, ensuring you are fully prepared and embedded in the university community before beginning your studies.
A personalised experience
January start Masters offer smaller group sizes and a more personalised learning experience. This encourages collaboration, discussion and a close-knit student community.
Align your studies with your career
If you are already working and want to develop specialist skills, starting in January can work better with your employer’s year, promotions and training programmes.
Stand out to employers
Graduating from a January start Masters means you complete your studies at a different point in the recruitment cycle. Rather than competing alongside the largest group of summer graduates, you enter the market at a time when some employers are actively seeking candidates to fill immediate or mid-year vacancies.
Why study at the University of Exeter?
Postgraduate study at the University of Exeter combines academic excellence with strong employer engagement. You will benefit from dedicated careers support, employer partnerships and a global alumni network, ensuring your January start helps you progress in your career.
Masters courses available for a January start
We offer a selection of Masters degrees with a January 2027 start, all taught on Streatham Campus in Exeter. Browse the full list of January start courses below and apply today. A January start is not just an alternative to September. It is a strategic choice to complete your degree within a calendar year and position yourself ahead in the job market.
Business, Finance, and Management
Computer and Data Science
Engineering
Scholarships for January start
Our Exeter Excellence Scholarships reward high academic achievement and help students make the most of our teaching, learning and university life. These scholarships are available for applicants starting in January 2027, with applications opening shortly.
We also offer University of Exeter alumni starting a January Masters a scholarship worth 20% of their first-year tuition fees. Find out more on the University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship page.
More ways to study
If your preferred course isn’t available in January, explore our September start or online course options for additional flexibility.
Masters degrees with a September start Online Masters degrees and courses
Frequently asked questions about January starts
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if starting your Masters study in January is right for you.
What are the benefits of a January start?
A January start offers flexibility for students who are not ready to begin in September. Choosing a January intake in the UK allows you to begin your postgraduate degree without waiting an additional academic year. You will start at a slightly quieter time of the academic year.
A January start is ideal if you need more time to prepare your application. It can be helpful if you are arranging funding, a scholarship or in the process of applying for a UK student visa.
Will my final degree award be the same if I start in January rather than September?
Yes. Your final degree award is the same whether you start your Master’s in January or September.
January intake postgraduate students study to the same academic standards, complete the same credit requirements and receive the same UK Master’s degree. Your transcript and certificate do not state your start month, and your qualification is recognised in the UK and internationally.
Are January starts open to both UK/Home and International students?
Yes, January starts are open to home (UK) and international students.
International students applying for a January intake in the UK receive full support with visa guidance, English language requirements and enrolment processes. You will join a diverse postgraduate community and have access to the same academic support, careers services and student facilities as September starters.
January entry can be particularly helpful for international applicants who need additional time for visa applications, financial planning or relocation.
When is the application deadline for January start courses?
Application deadlines for January intake master’s courses vary by subject. For the latest information on application deadlines, please see your chosen subject page or our application deadline page.
University of Exeter International Study Centre
The University of Exeter International Study Centre offers a range of courses for international students who do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry to the University, including:
- Exeter International Foundation
- International Year One programmes
- Pre-Masters
- Pre-sessional or Academic English
View all University of Exeter International Study Centre programmes