Upon graduation from university you will find out that an undergraduate degree is not all you need (will need) to get to the peak of your career. Nowadays, it is not unlikely to see undergraduate degrees being treated as a ‘common degree’. Most persons have gone further to obtain a postgraduate diploma or even a Masters degree. However, postgraduate diplomas or certificates are more common among fresh graduates, and you may want to know why.
In this article, we will explore all there is about postgraduate diploma. Additionally, we will answer some of the questions on your heart about postgraduate diplomas or certificates.
About Postgraduate Diploma
Postgraduate degree, also known as PGD or PG Dip, is an additional qualification one earns after the first degree. To a great extent, PGD is rated at the same academic level with the Masters degree in many fields of study. However, there is a slight, but significant difference.
Unlike the Masters degree where you have to undertake significant amounts of research and write a dissertation, the reverse is the case for PGD. The postgraduate diploma is popular among students who just completed their first degree and are looking to advance their careers without necessarily acquiring a Masters degree.
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With a PG Diploma, you have an obvious advantage over those who have a first degree (Bachelor degree) only. In addition, courses offered in PGDs can be vocational, legal or even academic courses.
How Does PGDs Differ from Masters Degree?
As earlier stated, PGDs can be considered to be at the same academic level with the Masters degree. However, there is a significant difference between the two which is important to note.
The most obvious difference is that PGDs take shorter time to complete than the Masters degree. Completing a full time Masters program will take up to a year. On the other hand, completing a PGD requires just two terms.
Secondly, the modules for a Masters degree is worth 180 credits, while that of Postgraduate diplomas is worth 120 credits.
Can I Do My Masters After Postgraduate Diploma?
Yes, you can. As a matter of fact, you can switch courses if the host university offers the same course at Masters and Postgraduate Diploma level. For instance, if you are enrolled in a course at postgraduate diploma level, you can write a dissertation to convert into a Masters degree. Similarly, if you are enrolled in a Masters degree, and abandon your course before duration of the degree elapses, you stand the chance of being awarded a PGD provided you meet the sufficient credits.
How Much Does A Postgraduate Diploma Cost?
The fees for PGD differs, and it is dependent on three factors;
- Your course of study
- Host university
- Student’s status (foreign or domestic)
However, regardless of these factors, Postgraduate diplomas are cheaper than Masters degrees.
What Is The Value Or Benefits Of Postgraduate Diplomas?
The value of postgraduate diplomas cannot be overemphasized. Let us observe a few below;
- It provides you the opportunity to acquire a postgraduate qualification without necessarily committing the same time and finances required for a Masters degree.
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- It gives you the opportunity to start off a career in teaching or law, and even to switch from one career to the other.
- Finally, it increases your earning potential, as well as your career prospects.
How Can I Apply For A Postgraduate Diploma?
To apply for a postgraduate diploma, log on to the website of your chosen university and fill out the application form. It is important to note that the admission processes differ from one institution to another. For some, you might be required to come for an interview. Others may require you to provide previous work samples, sit for an exam, or even judge you based on your application. There is no one-size-fit-all application process.
Furthermore, it is advisable to apply to these courses on time as most of the popular course get filled up on a first-come first-served basis.
Conclusion
As a fresh graduate or one seeking to change career path, enrolling for postgraduate diploma is a great idea which will pay off in the long run. By enrolling in a PGD course, you can earn a qualification that is arguably on the same academic level with a Masters degree. In addition, you will earn this qualification in a short period of time and at a low cost. So, go on and apply for a postgraduate diploma in an accredited institution (depending on your course of study) and kick-start your journey to the peak of your career.
We trust you will find this article helpful. Kindly share this article with your friends. If you have further questions, leave a comment in the comment box and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
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