If you're thinking about changing careers, a conversion course can be an effective way to transfer your existing skills into a new field
What is a conversion course?
A conversion course is an intensive postgraduate programme designed to help you enter a profession unrelated to your undergraduate degree.
These courses are usually vocational and can last from a few months to several years, depending on the qualification and whether you study full time, part time, or via a fast-track route.
Often condensing the key elements of an undergraduate degree into a shorter period, conversion courses are ideal for those who chose their original degree without a clear career path and now wish to change direction.
What courses are available?
- Economics conversion courses - Designed for non-economics graduates, often structured as a diploma followed by a Masters degree. Search economics conversion courses and read about being an economist.
- Engineering conversion courses - Available in various specialisms such as civil, structural, biomedical, and energy engineering. Some require a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) background, while others accept degrees in unrelated fields. Search engineering conversion courses.
- Graduate Diploma in Psychology (GDP) - Enables students without a British Psychological Society (BPS)-accredited degree to progress into professional psychology training. Explore psychology conversion courses.
- IT conversion courses - Popular with graduates moving into technical or business roles, offering both theoretical and practical skills. Search information technology conversion courses.
- Medicine conversion courses - Fast-track, four-year programmes for graduates. Some accept any degree subject, while others require a science background and relevant work experience. Search medicine conversion courses.
- Nursing conversion courses - Accelerated, Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)-approved courses that usually take two years full time. Specialisms include adult, children's, learning disability or mental health nursing. Search nursing conversion courses
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) - The PGCE is one of the main routes into teaching. Typically lasts one-year full time and is highly competitive. Find out more about applying for teacher training.
- Property conversion courses - Requires a qualification accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), focusing on business and property management. Search property studies conversion courses.
- Social work conversion courses - Typically a two-year Masters degree involving coursework, placements, and a dissertation. Relevant experience is essential. Search social work conversion courses, or find out what else you'll need to become a social worker.
Conversion courses are also available in:
What does a conversion course involve?
Course structure and content vary by subject and institution, but most programmes are practical and career focused. They typically include:
- coursework and essays
- exams
- group projects
- lectures and tutorials
- work placements or industry experience.
Fast-track courses are particularly popular, as they allow you to gain the necessary skills quickly. However, they are intensive and require significant independent study outside of scheduled teaching.
Part-time study offers more flexibility, allowing you to gain work experience alongside your course, often through evening or weekend study. Get advice on working while studying.
How long does a conversion course take?
A conversion course usually takes between six months and two years to complete, depending on how it’s studied.
Most full-time courses are designed to be completed in about 9-12 months, making them a quick way to switch into a new field. Part-time options are longer, typically 18-24 months, as they are structured to fit around work or other commitments.
What qualifications do I need?
Entry requirements vary by course and institution, but you will usually need at least a 2:1 Bachelors degree. In most cases, your degree can be in any subject.
Some courses may accept a 2:2 if you have relevant work experience. If you don't meet the standard requirements, it's worth contacting the university, as they may still consider your application.
International students should check specific entry requirements with their chosen institution. UK ENIC may help you better understand how your qualifications compare with those in the UK.
To learn more about the entry requirements for your chosen career, browse job profiles.
How much does it cost?
Tuition fees vary widely depending on the course and institution. As a guide, PGCE courses typically cost £9,790 for UK students (2026/27), while international fees are usually higher.
Can I get funding for a conversion course?
Before enrolling, it's important to understand your funding options. Due to their vocational nature, many conversion courses attract financial support, including:
- Employer sponsorship - Some employers may fund your course, especially if it benefits their organisation.
- Postgraduate loans - Available for many Masters-level courses.
- Scholarships and bursaries - Often subject-specific.
- Government funding - For example, bursaries for PGCE students in certain subjects.
For more information, see funding postgraduate study.
Should I do a conversion course?
A conversion course can be a valuable option if you want to change careers or specialise in a new area. Benefits include:
- achieving professional accreditation
- gaining relevant, career-focused skills
- improving job prospects.
However, there are also considerations. Changing careers may involve short-term stress, financial costs, or an initial drop in income. Before committing, ask yourself:
- Is this qualification required for my chosen career?
- Do employers value it?
- What are the employment outcomes for graduates?
- Will it lead to a PhD or further study opportunities?
If you're an international student, you'll also need to factor in additional costs and requirements, such as securing accommodation and a visa to study in the UK.
To help you make the decision, and discover where a conversion course could lead, see what can I do with my degree?.
How do I find a course?
Before choosing a course, research what employers in your target industry prefer. If this information isn't clear, consider:
- course content
- department ranking
- entry requirements
- external course validation
- institution reputation
- relationship with tutors
- student satisfaction
- timetable
- whether the course is taught by industry professionals.
To find a conversion course to suit you, search conversion courses.
How do I apply?
There is no single application system for all postgraduate courses. You will usually apply directly to universities, although some courses (such as nursing) may require applications through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
Each institution has its own deadlines and processes, so applying early is recommended, as places can fill quickly. Find out more about applying for a Masters degree.
Teacher training courses, such as PGCEs, often have separate application systems and deadlines, so be sure to check these carefully.
Find out more
- Read about Masters degrees.
- Take a look at postgraduate diplomas and certificates.
- Explore online learning.