Introduction
For many Nigerian graduates, obtaining a third-class degree can feel like a major hurdle for going abroad for postgraduate studies. While many UK universities list a lower second class honours (2:2) or upper second class (2:1) as standard entry requirements for master’s programmes, there are universities that will consider applicants with third-class undergraduate honours degrees, sometimes with additional criteria like relevant work experience, bridging courses, or certain supplementary qualifications.
If you fall into this category, it’s important to know:
- Which UK universities are more flexible with third-class degrees.
- What extra requirements or compensations they often ask for (e.g., work experience, PGDip, pre-master’s or extended master’s pathways).
- How to present your application to increase your chances.
- Practical issues: English proficiency, finances, visa, equivalencies from Nigerian qualifications, etc.
Below are five UK universities that are known to accept third-class degrees under certain conditions, especially for international students (including Nigerians). For each, I explain what the usual requirements are, what “third class” means in UK and Nigerian context, and what to do to improve your chances.
What is a Third-Class Degree?
Before going into specific universities, it’s helpful to clarify what “third class” means:
- In the UK honours system, undergraduate degrees are awarded with classifications: First Class, Upper Second Class (2:1), Lower Second Class (2:2), Third Class (3rd), and sometimes a Pass (if no classification).
- Third-class degrees are the lowest category of honours; typically reflecting poorer academic performance, though still a full honours degree.
- For Nigerian students, your bachelor’s degree (often from a 4-year or 5-year programme, depending on university) may be converted or assessed as equivalent by UK institutions. Often UK universities look at your transcript, GPA, class/division, year-by-year grades, and sometimes last 2 years or relevant parts.
Universities that accept third-class degrees normally do not do so automatically; they look for compensating factors (professional experience, strong references, relevant work, sometimes extra qualifications, or bridging/pre-master’s/extended master’s programmes).
Five UK Universities Accepting Third Class Degrees (and their Usual Requirements)
These are five institutions with a record of accepting third-class degrees (or at least considering them) for master’s level, under certain conditions.
| University | Conditions / Requirements for Applicants with Third Class | Specifics for Nigerian Students / Additional Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. University of Sunderland | – They accept a third-class honours degree or Ordinary degree (UK equivalent), provided there is at least two years’ relevant work experience. (University of Sunderland) – Also, there are Extended Master’s programmes which have more flexible entry requirements; some explicitly state “third-class honours degree, or equivalent, may be accepted.” (OnCampus) – For most programmes, one also needs to meet English language requirements (IELTS or equivalent). – Some courses may ask for a pre-master’s or bridging modules. | – Ensure you have good, documented relevant work experience in the field you are applying (managerial / professional work). Volunteer work, internships may help but professional experience is stronger. – Check whether your degree is seen as equivalent to UK honours degree; official transcript and course content help. – Be ready to show proficiency in English (IELTS etc.) – Use the extended master’s to build confidence or fulfil missing academic requirements. |
| 2. Roehampton University, London | – Normally require a second-class honours degree, but they specifically encourage applicants with a third-class honours degree to apply. They say they “will consider wider circumstances” when assessing these applications. (Roehampton University) – They have an Extended Masters pathway: this is for students who don’t meet the normal academic entry requirements. The Extended Masters is designed to build up academic skills etc. through extra modules. These pathways often accept a third class / ordinary / pass degree or international equivalent. (UniScholars) | – For Nigerians, ensure your degree is from a recognized institution, with official transcripts. – Strong personal statement explaining why, how you’ll make up any academic gaps; any work or professional experience will help. – Prepare to possibly do extra modules / pre-master’s / extended masters. – English language proof needed (IELTS, TOEFL or acceptable equivalent). Possibly also write about why you did third class and what changed / learned. |
| 3. Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) | – SHU is listed among UK universities that accept third-class degrees for master’s in reports / forums, particularly when supplemented by relevant work experience or pre-master’s / conversion courses. (DNB Stories Africa) – For Nigerian applicants, SHU specifies that applicants with a Higher Diploma plus significant work experience may be considered. Also, for a 3-year bachelor’s degree, sometimes the outcome may need to be backed up by strong marks in the final years. (www-cd1.shu.ac.uk) – There may be specific thresholds for percentage (e.g. ~50-60% in final years depending on whether the degree is 3 or 4 years). (Though the exact % may vary by department.) – English language requirement still applies. – Pre-Master’s / Foundation paths may be available. | – ND/HND holders or those with degrees from Nigeria should ensure that their degree is assessed for equivalency. – Highlight any strong modules, projects, or achievement despite overall third class. – If possible, gather strong letters of recommendation, good statement of purpose, maybe show professional/industrial experience to offset academic classification. – Check department-specific pages at SHU, as some programmes may be stricter. |
| 4. Robert Gordon University (RGU), Scotland | – RGU is known to accept third-class honours degrees (or HND / non-standard qualifications) in some master’s programmes. This is conditional – often based on the candidate’s broader profile (work experience, professional standing, ability to meet course expectations) or in programmes that are more vocational/professional. (Businessday NG) – Some departments may require evidence of ability: e.g., higher grades in relevant modules, or a PGDip (Postgraduate Diploma) or some bridging/foundation work. – English language requirements apply. | – For Nigerians, ensure that your degree (and classification) is clearly documented, and that you can show relevant work experience in same/similar field. – Programmes in Scotland may have slight variations in requirements (due to Scottish credit/qualification systems). – It’s helpful to contact department directly to ask whether third-class holders will be considered and under what precise conditions. – Also be ready to discuss why your academic performance was as it was, and how you are better prepared now. |
| 5. London Metropolitan University (London Met) | – This is another UK university cited in multiple sources as being among those that accept third-class degrees (especially for international students or where applicant has compensating factors). (DNB Stories Africa) – Typically asked: strong professional experience, good references, perhaps pre-master’s or additional modules. – English language proof. Some courses may have stricter entry requirements, so check the specific programmes. – They may also accept HND + relevant work. – Sometimes there are top-up or conversion or pathway programmes. | – For Nigerian applicants, again, clarity on transcript, classification, possibly module breakdown. – Make your application strong: statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, relevant work/volunteer experience. – Understand cost (tuition + living), visa, English test etc., because competitive applicants with third class often need to shine in non-grade areas. – Contact the department beforehand, ask whether your qualification is acceptable, whether extra modules are required, etc. |
What UK Universities Generally Ask for When Accepting Third Class Degrees
From analysing multiple universities, blogs, and forums relevant to Nigerian students, here are the common additional or supplementary requirements that UK universities often expect when they accept applicants with third-class degrees:
- Relevant Work Experience
Often 1-3 years (sometimes more) in a managerial, professional, or relevant role in the field you want to study. This helps demonstrate capability, maturity, and that you’ve developed skills despite the lower academic classification. - Strong Personal Statement / SOP
Because your grades are weaker, your motivation, reasons for applying, future plan, and what has changed or what professional/academic growth you have had since obtaining the third class matter a lot. Highlight any projects, publications, extra learning (online courses, certifications, self-study), leadership or applied experience. - Good References
Academic referees (if possible) who can speak to your potential, or professional references if you’ve been working. They should ideally attest to your capacity to succeed in a Master’s-level environment despite the undergraduate performance. - Supplementary Qualifications / Bridging Programmes
- PGDip (Postgraduate Diploma) in a related field.
- Pre-Master’s or Extended Masters programmes (sometimes offered by the same university) which include modules to build academic writing, research skills, sometimes English, to prepare you.
- Foundation modules or conversion courses where appropriate.
- English Language Proficiency
Standard tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE etc. Usually for international students an overall score plus minimum in each component is required. If your English is weak, you may need to do a pre-sessional English course. - Equivalent Qualification Verification
Universities will check that your Nigerian degree is from a recognized institution, that transcripts are official, and sometimes will do detailed evaluation of percentage/grades per course component (especially if you have done well in last 1-2 years). The class/division system may need to be mapped to UK honours classification. - Supplementary Evidence of Ability
If you have any academic work to show (thesis, projects, publications), or online course certifications, or professional training, or portfolio (for creative fields). Also sometimes performance in proficiency or entry exams, interviews or departmental assessments. - Financial and Visa Readiness
Since universities that accept third class may offset the risk by ensuring the student is financially stable and can meet visa, living, tuition costs. Good documentation, possibly more strict scrutiny from visa offices. Make sure you have funds, proof, and documentation. - Timeliness and Integrity in Application
Earlier application helps, ensure all documents in order, do not leave out transcripts, reference letters. If a department has to make discretionary decisions, missing documents or late submission reduce chances.
What Nigerian Students Especially Should Pay Attention To
- Institution Accreditation: Your university in Nigeria must be recognised, and transcripts must be official. Some UK universities will evaluate your institution; if it’s not well known, you may need extra documentation or evidence (module breakdowns, grading scheme, etc.).
- Percentage/Grade vs. Class vs. Division: In many Nigerian universities, the classification is based on percentage averages; some may be “third class” because of many low marks or a few very poor ones. If you have strong percentages in later years or in subject-relevant modules, highlight them. Some UK universities care more about recent academic performance (last year or two) than overall.
- Use of PGDip or Pre-Master’s: Getting a PGDip in a relevant field can help, especially if your degree is not directly related to the master’s you want. It can also serve to “bridge” gaps in foundational knowledge.
- Strong Non-Academic Experience: Work, internships, volunteer roles; demonstrating leadership; having a portfolio or research work; online courses or certifications (MOOCs etc.) can help strengthen your profile.
- English Language Certificates: If you have WAEC/NECO/IGCSE English, check if the university accepts this in lieu of IELTS. If not, prepare to take IELTS or equivalent and aim for good scores (often 6.0-6.5 overall, with no skill below 5.5).
- Cost & Living: Be very clear on tuition fees, cost of living (housing, food, travel), visa costs. Some of these universities are less expensive than “prestige” Russell Group universities but still need serious planning.
- Visa Considerations: For UK study visa, you’ll need CAS from the university, proof of funds, sometimes proof of accommodation. Also immigration health surcharge etc. Make sure the university is Tier 4 / Student Route sponsor (most are). Ensure that your application is valid and complete so that visa processing isn’t delayed or rejected because of missing or weak documentation.
Detailed Profiles & Example Scenarios
Below are example scenarios & profiles showing how someone with a third-class degree might successfully get admitted, based on the universities listed.
| Scenario | University | Key Strengths that Helped the Application |
|---|---|---|
| “I barely passed, but I have 3 years working in related field + certifications” | University of Sunderland (Extended Masters) | You show that despite low academic grades, you’ve been working in the field; you have certificates (online or short courses) in relevant topics; you write a strong statement; you meet the English requirement. Sunderland’s Extended Masters considers applicants with 3rd class with experience. (OnCampus) |
| “Third class, but improved in final year + good project + volunteer work” | Sheffield Hallam | They may consider those with 3-year bachelor’s and show that in final years you got strong percentages; your project and perhaps extra modules help; plus you meet English language score. Looking at SHU’s policy, they sometimes accept with such profiles. (Though specifics will depend on programme.) (www-cd1.shu.ac.uk) |
| “Third class but gap in academic performance, want a path to masters” | Roehampton University | Extended Masters or pre-masters paths give you the chance to build up your academic skills; if your third class was some years ago, but you can show subsequent improvement (work / additional learning), that helps. Roehampton explicitly says they will consider wider circumstances. (Roehampton University) |
| “Third class + professional or vocational credentials” | Robert Gordon University / London Met | For some vocational or practice-oriented programmes, RGU or London Met may give more weight to professional experience. If you bring in industry certification or relevant employer references, this helps offset the lower class. (Businessday NG) |
Pros & Cons of Choosing a University That Accepts 3rd Class Degrees
It’s also good to weigh the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Opportunity: You still get a chance at postgraduate education abroad, which might not be possible in every institution.
- Skill Building: Many of these Universities offer pre-master’s or extended pathways, which bolster academic skills, research, writing skills.
- Networking & Exposure: Studying in the UK gives exposure to different teaching styles, research, global networks.
- Potential Visa & Immigration Benefits: A UK master’s degree may help in future job opportunities, possibly immigration or global mobility.
Cons / Challenges
- Cost: Even “cheaper” UK universities can be expensive in tuition, living, travel, visa. Also, extended master’s or extra modules add cost/time.
- Reputation/Recognition: Some employers or institutions may prefer degrees from more prestigious universities. A third-class degree plus a less well-known university may offer less “prestige” in some markets, though quality matters more.
- Stricter Scrutiny: Applications may be more closely checked; weaker results in undergraduate may mean departments ask for more proof or higher English test scores etc.
- Self-Confidence & Motivation: You must convincingly explain why you got third class, how you’ve improved, and how you will succeed in master’s level work.
Practical Steps: How to Maximise Your Chances
If you have a third-class degree but want to apply for master’s study in the UK, particularly as a Nigerian, do the following:
- Research Specific Programmes
Look at individual master’s programme pages for the universities you are interested in. Some programmes are more forgiving than others; in fields like business, social sciences, management, there may be more flexibility than in extremely technical or research-intensive courses. - Contact the Admissions Office / Programme Leader
Before you apply, write/email to ask whether your specific degree class will be considered, and what additional evidence they’d expect. Sometimes this gives you clarity and helps you tailor your application. - Gather Strong Evidence of Academic Ability Post-Graduation
If you have done any postgraduate diploma, additional courses, projects, certifications, or improved grades in relevant modules, include them. If you have professional work experience that involves writing, research, project management, leadership, that helps. - Write a Persuasive Statement of Purpose
- Address directly the issue of your third class: what caused it, what you learned, how you’ve improved since then.
- Show clarity of purpose: why you want the programme, how it fits your career plan.
- Show readiness: mention any relevant professional tasks, research, learning done.
- Secure Strong References
- One academic (if possible) who can speak to your academic ability or potential (maybe a lecturer who remembers your work).
- One professional (if you’ve been working) who can attest to your skills, responsibility, readiness for postgraduate study.
- English Language Preparation
Make sure you meet the required test scores. If not, take an IELTS or equivalent test, possibly a pre-sessional English course. - Financial Planning
Estimate clearly tuition, living, travel, visa, health insurance etc. Some universities offer scholarships or bursaries. Also, because the university is taking more risk by admitting someone with weaker grades, sometimes scholarships may be harder to get—but don’t give up; some are specifically for non-traditional students. - Make Use of Pathway / Bridging / Extended Master’s Options
If the university offers an “extended master’s”, “pre-masters”, “pathway” or PGDip, these can be very helpful as stepping stones. They help you adjust to UK academic expectations and strengthen your profile. - Ensure Transcripts & Credential Evaluation Are Clear
- Make sure your transcript is official. – Break down modules & grades, particularly in the last year(s). – If possible, get your transcript evaluated or graded or explained (sometimes via UK NARIC or similar) to map to UK classification.
Example Profiles of University Requirements in Practice
To give a more concrete feel of what entry requirements look like, here are sample entries:
- Sunderland’s Extended Master’s: “To apply for this course you will need a third-class honours degree, or equivalent. If you do not meet these requirements, in exceptional circumstances you may be considered at the discretion of the programme leader subject to interview.” (OnCampus)
- Roehampton Extended Masters: allows “undergraduate degree (third class, pass or ordinary from a UK university or international equivalent)” plus English language requirements. (UniScholars)
- Roehampton general master’s entry: usually require 2nd-class honours, but for those with third class, they encourage you to apply, considering “wider circumstances.” (Roehampton University)
- Sunderland general postgraduate admission: “Third-class Honours degree or Ordinary degree (without Honours) or UK equivalent professional qualification with a minimum of 2 years appropriate work experience” for certain qualifications. (University of Sunderland)
Additional Universities That Often Appear in This Category
Besides the five, there are several UK universities repeatedly mentioned in credible sources (though always check current entry requirements):
- Birmingham City University
- Coventry University
- University of Hertfordshire
- University of South Wales
- Edinburgh Napier University
- UWE Bristol (University of West of England)
- University of Bedfordshire
These institutions are known to have more flexible criteria, or to have accepted third class degree holders with compensating factors. (Abroaducate)
Key Takeaways & Final Advice
- It’s possible, though not guaranteed. A third-class degree doesn’t automatically disqualify you—but you’ll need to build a stronger case around it.
- Focus on what you can control: work experience, additional qualifications, good references, English proficiency, a well-written personal statement.
- Always verify with the specific university department and programme; policies change over time, and entry requirements are not the same across all programmes at a university.
- Use pathway or pre-master’s / extended master’s routes when available. These are designed exactly for students with weaker academic backgrounds or those needing to raise skills.
- Plan financially and logistically well—tuition, living expenses in the UK, visa, etc. Also, make sure your Nigerian qualifications are clearly documented and evaluated.
Conclusion
For Nigerian students with third-class degrees, studying for a master’s in the UK is not out of reach. Universities such as University of Sunderland, Roehampton University, Sheffield Hallam University, Robert Gordon University, and London Metropolitan University have shown flexibility under certain conditions. The key is to present a holistic application: academics, professional experience, English ability, motivation, likelihood of success.