Key Takeaways
- A postgraduate degree comes after a bachelor’s degree.
- It helps you expand in depth knowledge of specific areas and build new skills.
- You could earn more money with a postgraduate degree.
- To get into a postgraduate program, you’ll need to apply, send required application documents like recommendation letters and personal statements, and you may need to take graduate entrance exams.
- Choose the right program by researching and comparing classes, teachers, and cost.
Flickr user San Francisco State
Thinking about going back to school? A postgraduate degree could be your next step and help you learn more in depth knowledge in specific areas, build new skills, and advance your career. Whether you want to grow in your current field or explore a new one, further education can help you get there.
Let’s take a look at what a postgraduate degree is—and how it can shape your future.
What Is a Postgraduate Degree?
A postgraduate degree is a degree you earn after finishing a bachelor’s degree. In the U.S., it’s often called a graduate degree. You can get a postgraduate degree in many subjects, like Business, Engineering, Education, or Social Work.
These programs can help you gain deeper knowledge and build specialized skills. Getting a postgraduate degree is a smart choice if you want to grow in your career or switch fields.
Types of Postgraduate Degrees
There are a few different types of postgraduate degrees. Each one has a different purpose.
Master’s Degree
A master’s degree usually takes 1 to 2 years to complete. These programs offer advanced classes and may include a final project, research paper, or thesis.
Some examples include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Science (MS) in fields like Data Science or Information Technology
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
A master’s degree is ideal if you want to deepen your knowledge or specialize in a specific area.
Doctoral Degrees (PhD or Doctorate)
Doctoral degrees are the highest level of academic achievement. They usually take 4 to 7 years to complete and involve original research, guided by an academic supervisor. Students must complete a dissertation and may have to pass an oral examination to graduate.
Some examples include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in fields like Biomedical Engineering or Social Sciences
- Doctor of Education (EdD)
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
This degree may be right for you if you want to teach at a university, conduct research, or become a thought leader in your field.
Professional Degrees
Professional degrees prepare students for careers that require licensing or certification. They typically take 3 to 7 years to complete and involve hands-on training and practical experience.
Some examples include:
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
These programs prepare students for professions in law, medicine, nursing, and other related fields.
Graduate Certificates and Diplomas
Graduate certificates and diplomas are shorter programs that usually take a few months up to one year to complete. They focus on specialized coursework without the longer research or thesis that full degrees require.
Graduate certificates typically include about 3 to 5 courses centered around specific skills or topics. Graduate diplomas are a bit longer, with more coursework, but still less than a full master’s degree.
Some examples include:
- Graduate Certificate in Applied Economics
- Graduate Diploma in Education
- Graduate Certificate in Project Management
These programs are flexible and practical. That makes them ideal for people who work or anyone who wants to explore a field without the commitment of a full degree.
Why Get a Postgraduate Degree?
There are many good reasons to pursue a postgraduate degree, including the following:
- More job opportunities. Employers often want candidates with higher education. In fact, unemployment for individuals with a professional degree is only 1.3%!
- Higher earning potential. People with master’s, profession, or doctoral degrees usually earn more money than those with a bachelor’s. For example, individuals with a professional degree earn median annual salary of $122K compared to $80K median annual earnings for those earning only a bachelor’s degree.
- Specialized skills. A postgraduate degree can help you gain special skills.
- Professional networking. Meeting teachers and classmates helps you build connections.
- Opportunity for growth. Postgraduate studies can improve your thinking and help you learn more.
Pursuing a postgraduate degree can be an investment in your future. It may open doors, boost your earning potential, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
How to Apply
Applying to a postgraduate program takes some planning. Here’s where to start:
- Check entry requirements. Usually, you need a bachelor’s degree and a good GPA. Some programs also require relevant work experience.
- Take required tests. Some need exams like the GMAT or LSAT, while others don’t.
- Prepare your documents. Transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement are common.
- Watch deadlines. Each school has its own deadline dates, so check carefully.
If you’re an international student, you’ll also need a student visa and proof of language skills.
Choosing the Right Program
Selecting the right program is important. Consider the following:
- Course content – Does it match your career goals?
- Faculty – Do professors have expertise in your field?
- Reputation – Check ratings for the programs.
- Study options – Full-time, part-time, or online? Decide what fits your schedule.
- Cost and funding – Compare tuition and look for scholarships or assistantships.
Take time to compare your options so you can find the program that best fits your goals and budget.
Balancing Work and Study
Many postgraduate students juggle school, work, and family responsibilities. It’s not easy—but it is possible.
To stay on track:
- Use time management tools like planners or digital calendars.
- Set small, achievable goals each week to avoid burnout.
- Lean on support systems. You can get help from tutors, family, and friends.
- Communicate with employers early if you need a more flexible schedule.
Balancing it all takes planning. But with the right setup, you can succeed without feeling overwhelmed.
Making the Most of Your Postgraduate Experience
Graduate school isn’t just about classes and assignments. It’s also your chance to grow your network, explore research opportunities, and build career-ready skills.
Here’s how to get more out of your experience:
- Network early and often. Attend department events, guest lectures, and conferences.
- Collaborate with professors and peers. Join study groups or research teams.
- Seek out research or assistantship roles. These opportunities can deepen your knowledge and strengthen your resume.
- Stay curious. Explore topics beyond your coursework—you never know where they might lead.
Taking an active role in your postgraduate journey can open unexpected doors. The more you engage, the more rewarding it can be.
Tips for Applying
Getting into a postgraduate program takes planning. Follow these tips to make your application stand out:
- Start early. Deadlines come up fast.
- Write a strong personal statement that explains your goals.
- Get letters of recommendation from professors or employers.
- Make sure your resume or CV is clear and up to date.
- Prepare for any required tests like the GRE or GMAT.
If English isn’t your first language, you may also need to take the TOEFL or IELTS.
Start Planning Your Future Today
A postgraduate degree can open doors—whether you’re looking to boost your salary or switch fields. Choosing the right program takes research, but it’s worth the effort.
Not sure where to begin? Use College Raptor’s FREE College Match tool to explore programs, compare costs, and find the best fit for your goals. Plan your next steps today!
