Student and Staff Perceptions of the International Postgraduate Student Experience: A Qualitative Study of a UK University

Authors

  • Emma L. Bird University of the West of England, United Kingdom

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v7i2.384

Keywords:

experiences, international students, postgraduate, qualitative research, university staff

Abstract

This study aimed to explore student and staff perceptions of academic, personal and social factors influencing the international postgraduate student experience at a UK University. Focus groups were conducted with international students enrolled in a Master in Public Health programme (n=10). An in-depth survey containing open-ended questions was completed by university staff that contribute to postgraduate teaching (n=12). Qualitative data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Student and staff perceptions of the international postgraduate student experience were broadly similar, although some discrepancies were identified. Five themes emerged: adjustment to academic expectations; adjustment to academic conventions; programme internationalisation; adjustment to the local culture; and, future plans. Findings add to the limited evidence base on the international postgraduate student experience in UK universities

Author Biography

  • Emma L. Bird, University of the West of England, United Kingdom

    EMMA BIRD is a Senior Lecturer in Public Health at the University of the West of England, Bristol, UK. 

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Published

2017-04-01

Issue

Section

Research Articles (English)

Categories

How to Cite

Student and Staff Perceptions of the International Postgraduate Student Experience: A Qualitative Study of a UK University. (2017). Journal of International Students, 7(2), 329-346. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v7i2.384