I am writing to enquire whether at British Universities it is possible to commence a Masters Degree (MA or MSc.Development Studies/Political Science and/or Economics) in the January term rather than in October. i.e. January 2011 rather than October 2010 for a student coming from abroad. Alternively, if a person were to be accepted for October 2010 can one defer entry for a term?

Can anyone provide any information on this? If it really does turn out to be possible to apply for january 2011, when are the application deadlines? and does one apply through UCAS?