It is important that before we delve into the differences between postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees, we understand what they mean. Thus, we will be having a definition of the two immediately.
What is a Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree is an academic degree awarded by universities or colleges. And this is upon completion of a course of study demonstrating mastery or a high-order overview of a specific field of study or area of professional practice.
Also, it normally requires previous study at the bachelor’s level. And this is either as a separate degree or as part of an integrated course.
Within the area studied, master’s graduates are expected to possess advanced knowledge of a specialized body of theoretical and applied topics;
Also, they are to pursue high-order skills in analysis, critical evaluation, or professional application. And they are to pursue the ability to solve complex problems and think rigorously and independently.
What is a Postgraduate Diploma?
A postgraduate diploma is a postgraduate qualification. And it is awarded after a university degree. Also, it supplements the original degree.
And it awards them with a graduate diploma. Also, it is a program of study available to graduates who have a bachelor’s degree.
While the U.K., Canada, and Australia offer a wide range of postgraduate diploma programs, note. In the United States, the closest equivalent is the postgraduate certification.
However, in other countries, the program may be called an advanced diploma or post baccalaureate.
A postgraduate diploma may be an academic course or a vocational course. For example; a legal practice course or a nursing course.
Major Differences between a Postgraduate Diploma and Master Degree
Have you ever wondered about the differences between a postgraduate diploma and a master’s degree? If yes, then know that you are not alone in this.
However, you will get some answers immediately. Below are some differences:
Master’s Degrees
The student aims at the acquisition (master studies) of advanced training, oriented to academic or professional specialization, or to the initiation of research work.
Also, generally, master’s degrees have a strategic orientation that addresses one or various disciplines with a comprehensive approach.
Additionally, Masters degrees require 60-120 ECTS credits. And they usually complete them in one or two academic years.
Also, the last position is the presentation of a final master’s thesis. However, you must be holding a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in order to be granted admission.
Master studies are composed of official master’s degrees and UAB-specific master’s degrees.
Postgraduate Diplomas
A graduate diploma distinguishes itself by offering a high level of specialization. And it is an update in a discipline or knowledge more concrete than those of master’s degrees. Also, this is usually with a clear professional orientation.
The workload of these studies is inferior to those of master’s degrees, generally between 30 and 60 ECTS credits. Also, a postgraduate diploma may grant admission to students without a university degree.
However, provided that when they finish the program they will not receive a graduate diploma, but a certificate of achievement signed by the rector of the UAB.
Other Outstanding Differences between a Master’s Degree and a Postgraduate Diploma
The main difference between the two is the academic scope. Master’s programs are between 60 and 120 ECTS credits. And this is 1 to 2 academic years.
While postgraduate diplomas usually impart between 30 and 60 ECTS credits.
Also, master’s degrees can be official or specific to the university. However, there are no official postgraduate diplomas.
Furthermore, to access a master’s degree, it is necessary to own a university undergraduate degree or an equivalent title.
However, to access a postgraduate course, the coordination of the program may grant admission to students without an undergraduate degree but with professional experience in the field.
Those are some of the outstanding and relevant differences between postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees. Thus, before you make your choice, reflect on these differences again.It is important that before we delve into the differences between postgraduate diplomas and master’s degrees, we understand what they mean
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