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Types of POSTGRADUATE qualifications
There are many postgraduate qualifications, each designed to fit different career goals. The most common options are Master's degrees, Postgraduate Certificates (PGCert), Postgraduate Diplomas (PGDip) and PhDs. Each type of qualification has its own duration, costs, and benefits. Let’s break down the most popular postgraduate qualifications to help you decide which path is right for you.
What are the different types of postgraduate qualifications?
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Master's (MA / MSc)
- Master's courses usually take between one and three years to complete – studying full-time or part-time
- Master's courses tend to focus more on academic research and usually offer greater study choice through a selection of modules, enabling students to tailor course content to their individual interests
- They can be a great path to senior industry roles or on to a PhD
- Tuition fees depend on the course you've chosen, your residency status, and whether you're studying part-time or full-time. Loans up to £13,206 are available for many of our master's courses
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Postgraduate certificate (PGCert) and postgraduate diploma (PGDip)
- Postgraduate certificates and diplomas usually take between one and two years to complete, depending on the course's mode of study – part-time or full-time
- Certificates and diplomas tend not to cost as much as master's courses
- Unlike a master's you don't have to write a dissertation
- PGCerts and PGDips are a fantastic avenue to support career development, particularly if you don't have the time to do a master's
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Research (PhD)
- If your goal is to become a specialist in the field you're passionate about, or pursue an academic career, a PhD is essential
- PhDs last longer than master's but give you total independence so you can focus on your research. This is very important since your aim will be to contribute entirely new knowledge in your chosen field
Many students think that a master's is an important step towards obtaining a PhD. This is not always true, however, and sometimes going straight into a PhD may be a more efficient way to achieve your individual goals.
Benefits of postgraduate qualifications
- Gaining a recognised and respected high-level qualification
- Building a network of industry connections and academics
- Exploring your area of interest within your chosen discipline
- Increased earning potential
- Multiple progression pathways, including a doctorate, academic research, and senior roles within the workplace
How to choose the right postgraduate qualification
The motivation behind your goals is the best guide towards choosing the type of postgraduate qualification that's right you.
- What are your career goals? Do you want to climb the career ladder, change careers altogether, or just expand your knowledge in a subject you're passionate about?
- How much time can you commit? Are you looking for a short, practical qualification, or a more extensive, research-driven degree?
- What is your budget? Your postgraduate qualification could vary in cost depending on the types of course you choose, the mode of study and your residency status
What else do I need to know?
Like some of our Masters courses, many diplomas at Leeds Beckett University are also accredited by professional organisations, meaning your qualification will be highly regarded in the industry it relates to.
If studying a master's is your ultimate goal, just remember that there's more than one pathway to get there. You don’t have to decide right from the start. A certificate or diploma could either fully cover your needs or pave the way for you to get there. In some cases, students who start a master's, but are then unable to commit to a dissertation can graduate with a certificate or a diploma.
To find out more about our courses, the types of postgraduate qualifications we offer, and which is right for you, visit us for an Open Day. We hold events throughout the year to help you discover the benefits of postgraduate study at Leeds Beckett University.
HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS
Student blog | What's it like being a mature postgrad student
"I picked up some good habits during my studies that I was able to apply to tasks within my job. Remaining organised was something I had to perfect when working at a postgraduate level, so it was a welcome relief to be able to continue this effectively into other areas of my life."
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take your next steps
If you're almost ready to jump into postgraduate study but still have a few questions to help you decide, we have you covered. There's lots of ways to get in touch - you can call or email our admissions team, chat to one of our amazing student ambassadors or stay in touch by providing us with a few contact details to get all the latest information about courses, events and student life!
