- Want to level up your skills and career without the hassle of a full Master’s? A Postgraduate Diploma is a quicker, budget-friendly way to do it!
- Postgraduate Diplomas are equivalent to Master’s degrees in academic level, but they focus on coursework and don’t require a dissertation.
- Learn who Postgraduate Diplomas are for, and how they’re different from other qualifications.
A postgraduate diploma (or PGDip) is a short-form university qualification you can take after finishing your Bachelor’s degree. Think of it as a supplement to your Bachelor’s or something between the Bachelor’s degree and the Master’s degree. Or, as some say, “a Master’s degree lite”.
What is a Postgraduate Diploma?
A Postgraduate Diploma is a short and specialised university qualification. It typically takes one year to complete if you’re studying full-time.
During your Postgraduate Diploma studies, you get the advanced knowledge and skills of a Master's degree but in a simpler and shorter process and at a lower price.
It’s a great option for students who want to:
- Develop skills and knowledge in a shorter time
- Change careers through focused study
- Upskill in their current careers
- Complete a Master ’s-level coursework, but without the dissertation
- Have a stepping stone between their Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
Entry requirements for Postgraduate Diplomas typically include a Bachelor’s degree and language certifications. For the most accurate information, check your university’s admissions page.
Find Postgraduate Diplomas on Mastersportal
Postgraduate Diploma vs. Master’s Degree: Key Differences
While both are advanced qualifications you can pursue after a Bachelor’s, they serve different purposes. A Postgraduate Diploma is shorter, more career-focused, and doesn’t require a dissertation.It’s a good fit for those who want to study for career development.
A Master’s degree, on the other hand, is a longer, more in-depth academic qualification that often involves research. It gives you more options once you finish: you can upskill in your current career, apply for more advanced jobs, or continue with further study, such as a PhD.
In the table below, you’ll find a detailed comparison between a Postgraduate Diploma and a Master’s degree. We also included the Bachelor’s degree for context, as it’s a requirement for both qualifications:
| Bachelor’s Degree | Postgraduate Diploma | Master’s Degree | |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate | Postgraduate (advanced, but shorter than a master's) | Postgraduate (full master’s degree) |
| Entry Requirement | High school diploma or equivalent | Bachelor’s degree | Bachelor’s degree |
| Duration | 3-4 years (full-time) | 6 months – 1 year (full-time) | 1-2 years (full-time) |
| Credits | Typically 180-240 ECTS | Typically 60-120 ECTS | Typically 90-120 ECTS |
| Focus | Broad subject knowledge | Specialised, career-focused training | In-depth academic study and research |
| Includes Research? | Some, mainly coursework | No, mostly coursework & practical training | Yes, it often requires a thesis/dissertation |
| Career Path | Entry-level jobs, further study | Industry-specific jobs, skill enhancement | Advanced positions, PhD opportunities |
| Common Fields | Arts, Business, Science, Humanities | Business, IT, Law, Healthcare, Engineering | Advanced specialisation in any field |
Postgraduate Diploma vs. Graduate Diploma
In some countries, the terms Postgraduate Diploma and Graduate Diploma are used interchangeably. However, in places such as the UK and New Zealand, there are differences. These include:
- Postgraduate Diplomas have a higher level than Graduate Diplomas.
- Postgraduate Diplomas are more associated with specialisation, while Graduate Diplomas are popular options for career change.
That said, both are short-form qualifications you can use as a stepping stone for a Master’s degree.
Postgraduate Diploma vs. Postgraduate Certificate
A Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) are similar in the sense that they’re both offered to graduates who hold a Bachelor’s degree. Their main differences are:
- A Postgraduate Diploma is more advanced and requires more credits than a Postgraduate Certificate. For example, in the UK, PGCert requires 60 credits, and PGDip requires 120 credits.
- Postgraduate Diplomas take longer to complete, usually 9-12 months full-time, compared to 3-6 months for a Postgraduate Certificate.
Most popular disciplines for Postgraduate Diplomas
Students choose Postgraduate Diplomas for different reasons. Sometimes, a Postgraduate Diploma is necessary for their desired career. In other cases, they’re useful to explore other careers, develop their knowledge in a specific area, or upskill.
Here are some common fields for Postgraduate Diplomas:
A. Postgraduate Diploma in Education
A Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDipEd) is a short, advanced qualification for graduates looking to become teachers or enhance their teaching skills. It covers teaching methods, curriculum planning, and classroom management and is commonly offered in the UK, Canada, and Australia. Some PGDipEd programmes lead to teacher certification, while others provide professional development for educators. Find your Postgraduate Diploma in Education
B. Postgraduate Diploma in Law
A Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDip in Law) provides a fast-track route into law without completing a full law degree. In the UK, it’s also known as a Law conversion course, helping non-Law degree holders transition into legal careers. In Australia, it’s offered for those who hold a Bachelor’s degree in Law, who want to improve their knowledge without committing to a Master’s degree. Find your Postgraduate Diploma in Law
C. Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing
A Postgraduate Diploma is a short, practical alternative to a Master’s in Marketing (MSc or MA). These programmes usually cover key areas such as digital marketing, consumer behaviour, branding, and marketing strategy. Some PGDip courses are accredited by professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) in the UK, adding extra credibility for job seekers. Find your Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing.
D. Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management
A Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management is a focused qualification for graduates and professionals who want to level up their project management skills. It covers key areas like project planning, risk management, budgeting, leadership, and Agile methodologies. This diploma is especially useful for engineers, business professionals, and IT specialists looking for formal training to boost their careers and take on bigger projects. Find your Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management.
E. Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
A Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting is a short, focused course for graduates and professionals who want to boost their accounting skills or work toward a professional certification. It’s a great option for business graduates, finance professionals, or career changers, giving you the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full master’s degree. Find your Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting.
What countries provide Postgraduate Diplomas
In the UK and many Commonwealth countries, a postgraduate diploma (PGDip) is a well-known qualification and is often seen as a shorter, more focused alternative to a master’s degree. Some countries offer similar qualifications in Europe, but they might have different names and structures depending on the education system.
The term "postgraduate diploma" isn’t commonly used in the United States. Instead, you’ll find graduate certificates or professional diplomas, which serve a similar purpose but may have slightly different requirements.
1. Postgraduate Diplomas in United Kingdom
In the UK, Postgraduate Diplomas are at the same level as a Master's degree. You’ll complete all the coursework of a Master’s degree, except the dissertation. If you want to complete the full Master’s later, many universities allow you to “top up” your qualification by adding the dissertation. A Master’s dissertation is worth 60 credits in the UK, which means that your Postgraduate Diploma includes 120 credits, and the full Master’s is worth 180. Find postgraduate diplomas in the United Kingdom on Mastersportal.
2. Postgraduate Diplomas in Canada
Also called Graduate Diplomas or Post-Baccalaureate Diplomas, Canadian Postgraduate Diplomas usually take one year to complete. They focus on career change or specialisation, and are designed to provide practical skills rather than academic research. Depending on the university, you may also find Postgraduate Diploma programmes that include internships or work placements. Find postgraduate diplomas in Canada on Mastersportal.
3. Postgraduate Diplomas in Australia and New Zealand
A Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Australia is, in fact, called a Graduate Diploma (GDip or GradDip). It is generally seen as equal to completing the first year of a two-year master's degree. A key advantage? Many PGDip students can later "upgrade" their diploma into a master’s by completing additional coursework. This type of degree is a level 8 qualification in Australia and New Zealand. Find your postgraduate diploma in Australia and New Zealand on Mastersportal.
4. Postgraduate Diplomas in India
Postgraduate Diplomas in India are highly industry-focused, designed for students aiming for better employment opportunities. Similar to other countries, they’re Master’s-level qualifications, which don’t require a dissertation. Find postgraduate diplomas in India on Mastersportal.
5. Postgraduate Diplomas in South Africa
In South Africa, Postgraduate Diplomas are recognised at NQF Level 8, which is between a Bachelor’s Honours degree and a Master’s degree. They’re designed to help graduates specialise in a specific field. Many students also use Postgraduate Diplomas as a pathway to a Master’s study, especially if they need to strengthen their academic background or meet entry requirements. Find Postgraduate Diplomas in South Africa on Mastersportal.
In conclusion…
A Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) is worth it for students and professionals looking to access Master’s level knowledge without committing to a full Master’s degree. You’ll gain new skills in your field, career-focused training, or a pathway to a new career if you’re looking for a switch. In many countries, you can also upgrade your PGDip to a full Master’s degree by completing a dissertation.
If you’re looking to learn new skills, change your career, or gain a competitive edge, but aren’t quite ready for a Master’s yet, a Postgraduate Diploma is a smart, efficient choice.
Find Postgraduate Diplomas on Mastersportal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is a Postgraduate Diploma?
Most Postgraduate Diplomas take 1 year or less to complete if studied full-time. Part-time options extending to 2 years are also available, depending on the university and country.
How to get a Postgraduate Diploma
To get a Postgraduate Diploma you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, though some programmes accept work experience instead. Then, choose a university and country—PGDips are most common in the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Apply by submitting your required documents (transcripts, CV, personal statement, and recommendation letters). You might also have to provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Can I get a a Postgraduate Diploma part-time?
Yes! Many universities offer Postgraduate Diplomas part-time, allowing you to study while working or managing other commitments. Part-time PGDips usually take longer instead of the standard 6 -12 months.
How much does a Postgraduate Diploma cost?
The cost of a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) varies by country, university, and subject. On average:
- UK: £4,000 – £12,000
- Canada: CAD 10,000 – CAD 25,000
- Australia: AUD 10,000 – AUD 30,000
- New Zealand: NZD 10,000 – NZD 20,000
- India: INR 50,000 – INR 5,00,000
- South Africa: ZAR 30,000 – ZAR 80,000
You can find postgraduate diplomas that suit your budget by using the tuition fee filter on our Postgraduate Diploma search page.
Can I study for a Postgraduate Diploma online?
Many universities offer Postgraduate Diplomas online, so you can study from anywhere while juggling work or other commitments. You’ll get the same qualification as an on-campus programme, but with flexible schedules and remote access to all your coursework.
