MSc Degree Classification

MSc degree classification An MSc is a Master of Science degree, and this is awarded for science-related subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics or Computer Science. An MSc is also awarded in technical and professional fields, emphasising research, practical application and experimentation.

An MSc is usually awarded for doing a standalone taught masters degree. If you do an integrated masters degree that is built into your undergraduate (bachelors) degree, you may find that it is known as an M.Chem, M.Phys or similar. While research masters degrees often result in being awarded an MRes qualification.

This article will focus on the MSc degree classification system, so if your course is one of these alternative abbreviations, the information will differ. For more information on different kinds of scientific postgraduate study, please see our overview of postgraduate programs in science here.

Masters degrees are awarded with different classifications to undergraduate degrees – although the range of marks is often similar. With an undergraduate degree, you’ll receive either first class honours (1st), second class honours, upper division (2:1), second class honours, lower division (2:2), third class honours (3rd), or ordinary degree (Pass).

The MSc degree classification system or masters degree grading is different, with the two main possibilities being Pass and Distinction – and, although not technically a class, Fail! However, many UK universities also add in a middle class, which is known as a Merit. In this article we’re going to look at what you need to do to achieve each of these classes.

Search for MASTERS COURSES

Regulations for MSc degrees

The regulations for MSc degrees don’t vary much between universities in the UK, making it easy to compare what you can expect to achieve. That said, there are some differences between the specifics of a university's MSc degree classification, so whilst this article is good for general advice, it’s recommended that you check your university’s regulations too in case there is an anomaly. These specifics can even vary by course, so make sure you’re being specific in your research.

To obtain an masters degree, you need to have completed enough work to add up to 180 credits in total, any less than this and you are not eligible to be awarded an MSc. Should you start a masters degree and be unable to complete the required amount of credits for some reason, 120 credits are enough to achieve a postgraduate diploma, and 60 credits will lead to a postgraduate certificate. Not gaining enough credits to get an MSc degree shouldn’t be an issue though, as masters courses are designed to consist of 180 credits and students should be taught accordingly. The number of credits consists of a combination of modules, projects and dissertation writing.

To gain a masters qualification, rules other than just studying the required number of credits may apply – for instance, most UK universities require that you spend at least three terms studying full time, or six terms of part-time study to get an MSc degree. Ensure you know what your university expects from you.

MSc degree classification – Pass

At most universities, you will find that a Pass requires a weighted average mark over all your modules of 50% or more. However, in many cases, universities will allow marks between 40 and 49.9% to be compensatable, if this is something which happens to you, it is highly recommended that you ask about this possibility! Do be aware that marks below 40% will often prevent a pass.

MSc degree classification – Merit

Whilst not all MSc degree classifications will include Merit, we will detail it here as it is growing more common. For a Merit, expect the mark required to be a weighted average of 60% or above, often requiring a mark of above 60% in any project or dissertation module. If you are very close to a Merit (specifically, within 2%), it is worth querying, as this is known as the boundary mark and it is occasionally possible to cross up to the higher classification. One thing that can really help to get these higher marks is to have an original and interesting thesis.

MSc degree classification – Distinction

Finally, the Distinction. This is the top classification, and like a first at the undergraduate level, requires a weighted average of 70% or above (although, once again, there is occasionally the 2% below boundary). In addition, you will often be expected to achieve a mark of 70% or above in any project or dissertation. Some universities are stricter than others, and may enforce a rule of no resits, only allowing first time marks to count towards this classification!

This table illustrates the percentages you should be aiming for to degree each different MSc degree classification.

MSc Classification	Grades Required
Distinction	70% and more
Merit	60–69%
Pass	50–59%
Borderline Pass/Fail	40–49%

Comparing the MSc classifications with undergraduate marks

You may have noticed here that these MSc degree classifications do roughly look like undergraduate degree ones, and you’d be right – a Distinction takes roughly the same marks as a first, a Merit the same as a second class honours, upper division, and a Pass the same as a second class honours, lower division. Don’t worry if you were on the lower end of the classification spectrum, though – with the right amount of work and determination it’s possible to achieve one of these higher marks – and here are some tips on how.

This table illustrates how masters degree classifications can be compared with undergraduate degree grades:

Percentage	Bachelors Degree Grade	Masters Degree Grade
70%+	1st	Distinction
60-69%	2.1	Merit
50-59%	2.2	Pass
40-49%	3rd	Fail/borderline pass

MSc classification distinction

How do you achieve a distinction in your MSc degree?

Achieving a distinction in a masters degree requires achieving exceptional performance across the different aspects of the course – here are some common factors that can contribute to earning a distinction in your MSc degree:

Academic excellence – maintaining consistently high grades throughout the MSc is essential. You must excel in your coursework, assignments, exams, lab work and any other assessments.

Research skills – conducting original research and producing a high-quality thesis or dissertation is crucial. This includes demonstrating a deep understanding of the research topic, employing rigorous methodology, conducting thorough analysis and making significant contributions to the field.

Critical thinking and analysis – demonstrating advanced critical-thinking skills is essential if you want to achieve a distinction.

Originality and creativity – presenting innovative ideas, approaches and solutions can elevate the quality of your work and distinguish it from others.

Engagement and participation – participating in class discussions, seminars, workshops and other academic activities demonstrates your commitment to learning and your ability to engage with course material at a deeper level.

Work ethic – meeting deadlines, adhering to academic standards and demonstrating professionalism in your interactions with faculty and peers will al stand you in good stead if you want to achieve a distinction.

Apply for one of our x5 bursaries worth £2,000

We've launched our new Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries for 2024. Full-time, part-time, online and blended-learning students eligible. 2024 & 2025 January start dates students welcome. Study postgraduate courses in any subject taught anywhere worldwide.

Find out more