Which type of postgraduate course?

There are many types of postgraduate courses. In this article we explain the differences.

Masters Degrees

Masters degrees can either be taught degrees, meaning they are classroom based, with close interaction with a tutor and formal examinations, or research degrees where you work on one large project, working towards producing a large thesis.

Masters Taught

As with bachelors degrees (BA) the most common masters degree is the MA, covering arts, business, humanities and social sciences, with MSc degrees covering the sciences, and the MEng covering engineering. Masters taught degrees are usually 1 year in duration full time, or 2 years part time.

Masters Research

MPhil degrees are research based and are used to prepare students for a PhD, as students on MPhil degrees can be upgraded to a PhD. MRes is a more structured version of an MPhil and contains more taught modules, however is still primarily research based.

Masters research degrees typically take from 1 to 2 years duration for full time, or 2 to 4 years part time.

MBA

Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a specialist taught masters degree with focus on business. It is typically studied over 2 years for the full time MBA or 3 years or more for the part time MBA. Part time courses are usually organised outside of normal work hours and are frequented by working professionals.

DBA

A doctor of business administration (DBA) is the research equivelant of the MBA and is usually identical to a PhD in Business Administration, however tends towards applied research rather than theoretical research. The duration of the course, as with most doctorates is between 3 to 4 years full time.

PhD

The PhD is the most widely recognised research degree, requiring you to provide new knowledge to the subject area you are working in. You are required to create a thesis worthy of publication, and this thesis is used to award your qualification.

PhD’s are studied for 4 years full time, and 7 years or above part time.

Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates

Postgraduate diplomas (PG Dip) and certificates (PG Cert) are taken by students who require a qualification for their career. Diplomas and certificates can be completed in under a year. These courses can also be used as stepping stone to a Masters degree.

Professional Qualifications

Like postgraduate diplomas and certificates, professional qualifications are very much focused on career advancement. However, unlike postgraduate diplomas and certificates you must gain practical training, meaning you are required to be in a position that allows you to apply the skills being taught.

Professional qualifications are often studied by distance learning, at the students own pace, however they can be taught in a more traditional setting if required.

The professional bodies that award the qualifications often have an active student member base with opportunities for networking and future prospects.

Qualifications such as a Professional Diploma in Marketing, from the professional body CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) is a widely recognised and regarded qualification in the world of marketing.