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Posted Aug. 6, 2025

Masters vs PG diploma – which is the right postgrad path for you?

When exploring your postgraduate options, the possibilities really are endless – our site alone offers some 30,000 postgraduate programs! We’ve helped more than 10 million students find their perfect course to date, and we’re here to support you too. But, with so much choice, finding the right program may not be all that easy.

Defining your desired course type is a great place to start, and in this blog post, we’ve compared two of the most popular. So, what differences can you expect when exploring masters programs and postgraduate diplomas (PGDip)?

Duration and depth

The depth and duration of your chosen course can be a real sticking point, and masters and PGDip courses offer two very different options. The masters degree takes between one and two years to complete when studied full time – this could be as long as four years for a part-time masters – and it’s reflected in the depth of study.

While a postgraduate diploma is known for covering the core modules of a masters program, the masters goes much further, using the added course duration to delve deeper into both advanced theoretical and practical learning. The masters is also topped off with a dissertation or research project.

Studied for a period of six months to one year full time, or up to two years part time, the PGDip is shorter in duration and an ideal option for those looking to upskill quickly. It takes a more practical approach to explore key areas in less depth.

Opportunities post-graduation

One of the main reasons to pursue postgraduate study has to be the career opportunities the wealth of knowledge acquired affords you. A masters degree is a particularly positive step forward for you and your career, as well as a progression that can help you switch fields with ease or advance in your existing role. It’s often used to prepare for further study too as the University of Dundee explains:

“If you are considering a PhD, a postgraduate degree can be useful preparation, especially if you didn’t complete a research-intensive undergraduate dissertation. Many master's courses include research components that will help you to improve your analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as gain experience in research methodologies. You’ll also have more opportunities to begin building a network of useful academic and professional contacts.”

Studying for either a masters degree or postgraduate diploma can open up a whole world of career prospects and opportunities, with roles in research and academia, industry leadership, specialist areas, startup companies and public policy and government within your grasp.

Course costs

The cost of postgraduate study can be steep, but with several avenues of finance and funding to explore, those eligible can get the support they need to foot the bill for postgraduate fees and living expenses. For example, our Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries are worth £2,000 each – find out more.

With a longer duration, masters degree courses are typically more expensive than postgraduate diplomas. The same applies to expenses outside the classroom, like accommodation, bills, travel and groceries.

Flexibility of study

Whether studying for a masters or PGDip, you can study the way you want in most circumstances. There are opportunities to study for a masters or postgraduate diploma full time, part time or online. While these vary from institution to institution, finding a program that suits your schedule and circumstances is simpler than ever.

Find a postgraduate program that ticks all the right boxes by searching our database today.

Related articles

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What Is A PGDip & Is It Right For Your Postgraduate Goals?

Masters Study Advice

 

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