Clarify the kind of postgraduate study
Taught postgraduate courses and research degrees can have different structures and application steps. Check the university’s current description of the degree, expected study mode, assessment and research requirements.
For a research route, write a short description of your topic area and why it matters to you. It can help you identify relevant faculty expertise and questions; it is not a substitute for a university’s proposal format.
- Degree type and study mode
- Research area and scope
- Relevant faculty or research group
- Supervision and proposal process
- Facilities, ethics and resource questions
Check fit and feasibility
Review recent faculty research and the department’s official pages. Ask whether a suitable supervisor is available, what proposal materials are required and what resources may be needed. Do not assume that contacting a faculty member guarantees supervision or admission.
Compare the published entry requirements, language requirements, duration and fees for the exact course. Confirm current details directly with the graduate school or faculty.
Prepare a focused enquiry
When contacting a department, keep the message concise: identify the programme, summarise your background and research interest, and ask specific questions about the stated process. Attach documents only if the university requests them through an approved channel.
- Programme page and application route
- Academic background and transcripts
- Research summary or proposal format
- Potential supervisor/faculty fit
- Funding source and timeline to verify
