Is PG-D as good as getting a master's degree?

Everything is pretty confusing when you decide on your next step after graduation. Some decide to get a job or start a business whereas some people choose to study ahead.

People who commonly choose to get further educational qualifications, either get their Master’s degree, or some prefer earning a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD).

There is a lack of understanding about the duration, types, and opportunities in students. And before choosing any one of them, you need to understand the exact difference between a masters degree and a PG-diploma.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be familiar with the differences between a PGD and a Master’s degree and can identify your fit!

What is a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)?

A postgraduate diploma is an academic program at the graduate level that can be pursued immediately after undergraduate studies. Usually, postgraduate diploma programs are vocational and focus on obtaining practical skills and knowledge.

It is important to be aware that both a Master’s degree and a Postgraduate Diploma enhance career prospects, but if you want to obtain a postgraduate qualification without committing to the research and length of a Master’s degree, a Postgraduate Diploma may be the right option for you.

Difference between a Master’s degree and a PG-Diploma:

There are multiple factors to consider before going for either of them. In this article, we’ll specifically talk about the major differences like, duration, cost, value, course curriculum, admission requirements, career prospects, and work permit.

1. Duration:

Most universities offering a master’s degree require you to complete a 4-year bachelor’s degree. However, you can still get an admit with a 3-year bachelor’s degree in some cases.

Whereas in PGD, the duration is usually a year. However there are a few exceptions; like in canada, PGD can also be for 2 years.

2. Value:

After comparing the value of both, a master’s degree holds more value because of its extended modules and extensive study.

Whereas, PGD can help you get a job in the host nation, but a master’s degree will hold more value and recognition worldwide.

3. Course curriculum:

The course curriculum and structure significantly differ between a Postgraduate Diploma and a Master’s degree.

Whereas a master’s course is primarily research-based and provides a broader view of the subject, it also includes more advanced training and coursework.

Diploma courses target practical skills and knowledge, hence are for a shorter period. Because PG diplomas focus on practical skills in a specific field, they require less coursework and research.

4. Cost:

When you compare the cost of both, a diploma is much cheaper than getting a master’s for rational reasons. For example, suppose you want to get a master’s degree in Australia. In that case, it will cost you around AUD 14,000 – $37,000.

And a diploma at the same time will cost you around AUD 4000-$27000; this is the cost excluding your application fee, food and travel and affordable student accommodation in Australia.

Because there is a significant difference in both numbers, if cost is a major factor in planning your study, you can do a diploma, develop experience, and probably plan a master’s later.

5. Admission requirements:

A postgraduate diploma may be the best option if you are not looking for extensive study and have average grades (less than 60%). You don’t require any other academic exam. But you’ll have to submit your English proficiency report by giving an IELTS or TOEFL examination.

And if you’ve graduated with higher grades and a CV with technical or work experience, you can consider a master’s program.

Additionally, many schools require entrance exams like the GRE or GMAT along with your English proficiency report of either IELTS OR TOEFL.

There are additional documents like SOP, LOR or resume which can be required depestudent accomodations in Melbournending on university requirements.

6. Career prospects:

If you are interested in studying at the postgraduate level to advance in your career or find a job faster, and do not want to dedicate the time and resources to a Master’s degree,then a PG Diploma would be an excellent choice. Even though many government organizations do not recognize PG Diploma as a postgraduate certificate, it’s a good choice. Make sure to look at your desired company’s policies beforehand.

A Master’s degree, however, is the best choice if your career plans include getting a Ph.D. or is mainly an academic-based career plan. In addition, it gives you a broader view of a subject and access to more employment opportunities.

7. Work Permit:

Once you complete your studies abroad, like most students, you will also want to work and gain experience before moving back to your pavilion. In that case, make sure you look at the Post-study work permits of your desired country.

Your permit also depends on your course length and type and differs country to country. For example, at the University of Melbourne, if you get a diploma course, you’ll get an extension of 24 months.

Whereas if you get a master’s degree, you can work for an extended time of 4 years. This city is also ranked the most liveable city for students because of its culture, job aspects, transportation options, low crime rates and mostly affordable student accomodations in Melbourne.

Conclusion

A diploma may focus on one subject and often have a more practical component. So by the time you graduate, you’ll have a qualification and work experience to go along with it. It can also be much cheaper to study than a degree.

Whereas a Master’s is a more qualified and valued degree, both of them are great choices! So there is no better option in general, but you should compare them based on your current resources, eligibility, and career plans.