Difference between PG Diploma and Masters
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Bachelor's degree graduates often get confused when it comes to choosing a course for their higher studies. However, in this article, we will talk about the difference between PG Diploma and Master's degree to help you make an informed decision. A PG Diploma (Postgraduate Diploma) and Masters are both postgraduate qualifications, but they have distinct characteristics and cater to different educational and career goals.
The foremost question that strikes one’s mind after completion of an undergraduate or a bachelor’s programme is what to pursue next. This question needs to be evaluated carefully as the subject you would choose further will decide the route of your career and may play a significant role in progressing in one’s field. Filtering the best suitable university or college and finding the course which aligns with your career goals is a tedious task for many. So as to save time and efforts and not change your study area in between a session, it is always a good idea to carefully plan the selection of your postgraduate subject of study.
Although there are many options available at the postgraduate level, most of the students believe that they can only pursue a master’s or a PhD course as these two are the only popular choices which they usually hear of. But the fact is that many are unaware that a programme named ‘Postgraduate Diploma’ or ‘PG Diploma’ is also available at the PG level. This article points out the difference between a master’s degree and a postgraduate diploma and also lists the popular courses under each of these categories. The purpose of this article is to assist you in deciding which of the two is a better option for you. But now, let us learn about both these courses in detail.
Check: LOR for PG Diploma
What is a Master’s Degree?
An advanced academic degree, a Master’s degree is usually obtained once a student completes his/her bachelor’s degree. Below are the details on the master's degree.
- Longer Duration: Masters programs generally last longer, typically 1 to 2 years.
- Broader Curriculum: They offer a broader curriculum, covering a wider range of topics within a subject area.
- Research Component: Many master's programs include a research component, such as a dissertation or thesis, which allows students to delve deeper into a specific research topic.
- Academic Advancement: Masters degrees are often considered stepping stones for further academic pursuits like PhD programs.
What is a Postgraduate Diploma?
Students after completing their undergraduate course can go for a Postgraduate Diploma which is an advanced level short-term academic qualification. Below are the details on the PG Diploma course.
- Shorter Duration: PG Diplomas typically have a shorter duration compared to masters programs, often ranging from 9 months to 1 year.
- Specialised Focus: They offer a more specialised focus on a particular subject or field, providing in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific area.
- Career-Oriented: PG Diplomas are often designed to meet specific industry demands and equip students with practical skills for immediate employment.
- Entry Requirements: While some institutions may require a bachelor's degree, others might accept equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.
Difference Between PG Diploma and Master's
Below are the main points of differences between a PG diploma and a master's degree.
| PG Diploma Vs Master's Degree | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | PG Diploma | Masters |
| Duration | Shorter (9 months to 1 year) |
Longer (1 to 2 years)
|
| Focus | Specialised focus on a particular subject/field | Broader, covers a wide range of topics and subject areas |
| Research | Less emphasis on research |
Significant research component
|
| Career Goals | Immediate employment |
Academic advancement or specialised roles
|
PG Diploma Vs Master's - Which One to Choose From?
So if you are confused between the two, keep in mind that both these degrees will play a crucial role in pushing your career prospects. If you are looking for a specialised qualification to enhance your employability in a particular field, a PG Diploma might be suitable. On the other hand, if you are interested in further academic pursuits or a more in-depth exploration of a subject, a master's program could be a better fit. If you are someone who does not want to get involved in a lengthy programme and research, go for a postgraduate diploma without a second thought.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
Check: PG Diploma Courses in Abroad
Popular Master’s and PG Diploma Degrees
The comprehensive list of popular PG diploma and master's courses is given in the table below.
| Master’s Degree |
PG Diploma |
|---|---|
| MBA |
PGDM in Marketing |
| Master’s in Environmental Science |
PG Diploma in Cyber Law |
| Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning |
PG Diploma in HR |
| Master’s in Accounting and Finance |
PG Diploma in Global Business Management |
| Master of Public Administration |
PG Diploma in Artificial Intelligence |
| Master of Law |
PGDM in Banking and Finance |
| Master’s in Petroleum Engineering |
PG Diploma in Hospital Management |
| Master’s in Nutritional Sciences |
PG Diploma in Graphic Design |
| Master’s in Transdisciplinary Design |
PG Diploma in Event Management |
| Master’s in Development Studies |
PG Diploma in Digital Marketing |
Check: Common Mistakes To Avoid During the Application Process
Cost Involved in a Master’s Degree and a Postgraduate Diploma
How much amount would be required to pursue a master’s and a postgraduate diploma degree may depend upon the university/college, location of the institute and the programme you choose. Usually, a master’s degree will cost more than a postgraduate diploma, but there might be some exceptions. This is so because the former is typically longer and more comprehensive than the latter and may need more resources and faculty time to complete. Also, research component such as a thesis or dissertation is often involved in a master’s degree.
However, other factors such as scholarships, financial aid, and other funding sources might also influence the cost of both programmes. Therefore, it is important to do proper research and compare the costs of different programmes and institutions before one makes a decision. One should also take care of the potential return on investment in terms of job opportunities and earning prospects.
As most of the postgraduate programmes cost higher than a PG Diploma, nowadays many students are opting for courses which have a lower tuition fee. Once there is no time constraint, one can go for a master’s degree as well after some time when it seems convenient.
Read More: Which exam to give for which course to study abroad
This was all about the difference between a master's and PG diploma. If you wish to study abroad, then you can get assistance from Shiksha Counselling Services for free. You can also drop your queries in the comments section below.
Q: How can I get admission in the University of Manchester?
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Q: Is university of West of Scotland good for international students?
The University of the West of Scotland has five modern and diverse campuses in United Kingdom. The University has welcomed more than 3,000 international students which are representing 1/3 of the globe. They also have 130 European partners who are actively in global study and exchange options through the Commonwealth universities programmes. The University also offers study abroad opportunities for UWS who are eligible for the same and also have more than 20 transnational education partners worldwide which helps them deliver UWS Bachelors and Masters Degrees around the world.
Q: What is University of Wales, Trinity Saint famous for?
University of Wales, Trinity Saint (UWTSD) was founded in 2010, is a public institution for higher education and research at multiple locations. It was set up under the 1828 royal charter of Lampeter, the institution was the result of the merger between Trinity University College and the University of Wales. The institution merged with the Swansea Metropolitan University in 2013.
- Top Ranked University: The UWTSD is not ranked by any major ranking body, however as per the university ranking given on the official website of the university, it is ranked among:
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Film Production and Photography
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Fashion and Textiles
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Graphic Design
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 5 Education
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Sports Science
- #1st in Wales and UK Top 20 Mechanical Engineering
- #1st in Wales for Fine Arts
- Variety of Courses: UWTSD offers more than 300 programs at various levels including undergraduate, postgraduate degrees as well as multiple online courses.
- Highly distinguished and learned faculties: the faculty at UWTSD is highly learned and distinguished which enables students to be the best in their field of study.
- High Placements: According to Graduate Outcome data 2019-2020 quoted by the UWTSD, more than 95% of its graduates were found to be employed within 15 Months of graduation. The average salary of a graduate is not explicitly released by UWTSD, however, as per some unofficial sources the average salary of the graduates of UWTSD is approximately INR 30-35L. with the highest salary being reported as high as INR 66.5L for jobs in Financial Services.
Q: What rank is Wolverhampton University in UK?
The University of Wolverhampton is one of the best universities in the United Kingdom. The university is consistently ranked among the best universities nationally and globally. For nearly 200 years, the University of Wolverhampton has been consistently providing a quality of education to students and producing highly skilled graduates. The national rankings of the University of Wolverhampton are given below:
| Ranking Body | Ranking |
|---|---|
| The Guardian University Guide 2024 | #101 |
| The Complete University Guide 2024 | #117 |
Q: Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:
English Language Test | Score |
|---|---|
IELTS | Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section |
The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:
English Language Test | Score |
TOEFL iBT | Overall score of 72 to 114 |
PTE | Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section |
Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities
Q: Why indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School - UK?
Indian students choose to study at Hult International Business School in the UK for several reasons, including its highly ranked programs, global outlook, and career support. Hult offers a range of full-time master’s degrees, immersive bachelor's programs, and MBA options that prepare students to excel in the global job market. The school is the largest and top-ranked global business school, providing students with an incomparable universal outlook. Additionally, Hult's focus on experiential learning, extensive career support, and the opportunity to study at multiple campuses around the world are attractive to Indian students seeking a global business education. Furthermore, the school's emphasis on innovation and meeting the needs of students and employers may also contribute to its appeal to Indian students
Q: How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2025?
Those who are preparing for the UK Class 10 exam 2025 are recommended to follow the tips below.
- Know the exam pattern
- Make a proper time table as per the syllabus
- Solve previous year question papers
- Make short notes of important formulas and theorems
- Revise regularly
- Figure out weaker areas and learn them well
With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.
Q: How to download UK Board 12th date sheet 2024?
Following are the steps to download the UK 12th date sheet 2024.
- Open the Uttarakhand Board's official website at ubse.uk.gov.in
- Click on 'Examination Scheme' available on the homepage
- A new window will appear on the screen containing a link of the UK Board 12th date sheet 2024
- Click the link and download the Uttarakhand 12th date sheet 2024
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