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Posted April 1, 2026

Is a masters a postgraduate degree? Understanding the difference between a postgraduate degree and a masters degree

The world of postgraduate education can be a confusing place – especially for those thinking about studying a masters and considering their options, only to discover that there are tons of other postgraduate degree types to choose from too! Here at Postgrad, it’s our mission to take the hard work out of finding a great postgraduate program. Our database of more than 30,000 courses is just part of our service however.

We understand that to pinpoint your perfect postgrad program, you need to understand what’s out there. In this blog post, we help you solve one dilemma by uncovering what’s the difference between a postgraduate degree and a masters degree. Read on for answers!

The answer is simpler than you think…

When comparing a masters degree and a postgraduate degree, the two aren’t dissimilar. This is because the phrase ‘postgraduate degree’ is actually an umbrella term for any qualification that is studied after completing a bachelors or undergraduate degree. The masters degree is one of these postgraduate options.

Your masters degree options

A masters is the most common postgraduate degree option, and is broken down further into several degree types.

While taught masters degrees – such as the Master of Science (MSc), Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Education (MEd) – are applicable in some disciplines, and use a mix of taught modules and a dissertation to qualify for the appropriate amount of credits, research masters degrees may be better fits for others. Here Walbrook Institute London explains more about the research masters degree qualification:

“Focused more on independent research at postgraduate level, degrees like Master of Research (MRes) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) require you to conduct a detailed research project. A research degree, or doctoral degree, is ideal if you aim to pursue a PhD or an academic career in research-based fields. They require a greater level of self-direction and initiative in exploring complex problems.”

Other masters degree types include professional masters like the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Law (LLM), and integrated masters degrees such as the MEng and MMath.

Other postgraduate qualifications

Alongside the masters, you’ll discover several other types of postgraduate courses. While they are not masters degrees, they do offer a number of advantages, especially if you have your heart set on quick career progression, want to earn more in an industry you are passionate about, or fancy a change of career.

The postgraduate certificate (PGCert) and postgraduate diploma (PGDip) are perhaps the most popularly explored, and work well if you don’t have the time to undertake a masters degree. The postgraduate certificate is the shortest in duration, but it’s a qualification worth fewer credits.

The PGDip is longer than a PGCert, yet still shorter than a masters. With this, it offers less depth than a masters degree, with students not required to complete a dissertation as part of their postgraduate studies. Unlike a masters, which takes between one and two years to complete when studied full time and as long as four years to study part time, a PGDip can be completed in as little as six months.

Which is right for me?

Choosing between a masters degree and the other postgraduate programs detailed above isn’t just about the qualification, it’s about what you want it to do for your life and career. When making your choice, consider your goals, the time commitment, your budget, the depth and flexibility of each course, and the entry requirements.

Your learning style should also be taken into account. Those who prefer structured learning, research and plenty of writing may be better suited to a masters degree. Would-be postgrads that prefer something a little more practical should consider a PGCert or PGDip. For international students looking to undertake a masters or other postgraduate qualification in the UK, there are visa considerations to bear in mind too.

Decided on the postgraduate course type for you? Find a program to match by searching with us today.

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How are masters degrees graded in the UK?

 

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