Does finishing a thesis grant you a Master's degree in the UK?

Hi,

I started an online MSc degree at a university in the UK about two years ago, I chose to do it part time because it was more affordable as you pay in installments per course taken.

I ran into some issues (let go from job and basically had to flee a war from my home country) so it caused a financial strain and I couldn't afford to pay for my courses and I took a leave of absence for one year. When I got back I found the credits I completed were enough for me to begin my dissertation course and submit my thesis. I now finished my thesis, passed and was expecting to receive my full degree. The university is instead now telling me that I still have to complete two more modules and pay for them before obtaining a MSc and if I choose not to take them I will be awarded a PG Diploma.

My question is, is this normal in Masters programs specifically within the UK? I find it unfair that I had to do my dissertation course and go through all that effort just to be told I do not have enough credits to obtain the title of MSc.

Submitted August 30, 2025 at 10:19AM by Independent_Link9394 https://ift.tt/udpD8TA