I found it exciting being able to design my own experiments and analyse results
![Graduating student](http://cdn.sheffield.ac.uk/sites/default/files/styles/profile_square_1x/public/2023-05/Untitled%20design_0.png?h=76f536d8&itok=LUaJptc7)
The taught modules alongside my research project fed into my project and helped to strengthen my knowledge of my results. The synergy of both elements was very valuable - the taught courses helped me to figure out which areas of chemistry I found most exciting, whereas my research project showed how exciting it can be to design experiments and analyse results.
Doing my MSc (Research) course gave me a taste of the life of a PhD student and I also interacted with a lot of the current PhD students at that time and saw their enjoyment in their work. I recognised that it would be fruitful and fulfilling for me to continue researching and wanted to be able to do this in a more independent way, which was offered by this particular career route. I also developed transferable skills such as resilience, timekeeping and organisation which are very valuable in my PhD.
I was aware of the different skills needed by PhD students as I had a taste of the experience in my MSc (Research) course, and I had core subject knowledge which I was able to show in my PhD interview.
Alana Barlow
MSc(Res) Chemistry
![Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union](http://cdn.sheffield.ac.uk/sites/default/files/styles/mobile_single_column_1x/public/2023-11/171627.jpg?h=8ba26d87&itok=OPOfxvzO)
International scholarships
We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships towards the annual tuition fee. Applications are open for existing offer holders.