Do you want to go on to university but already have a degree? Or perhaps you are looking for an alternative route into your profession? A postgraduate diploma might be the answer. A postgraduate diploma is usually designed as an extension course or qualification that follows on from undergraduate study to enhance skills, knowledge, and expertise in a particular field. This article will explore what postgraduate diplomas are, where they can be obtained and what qualifications will be needed to obtain one.
Postgraduate Diplomas
Postgraduate diplomas are a qualification that can be undertaken after completing an undergraduate degree. They are usually shorter than a full Master’s degree and focus on a specific study area. This makes them the perfect choice for students who want to gain more in-depth knowledge about their chosen subject or field without committing up to another two years of study. Most importantly, a postgraduate diploma is equivalent to a Master’s degree qualification.
A range of postgraduate diploma courses are available in the UK, with subjects spanning from business and management to law and engineering. Universities, colleges, and specialist institutions are among the organisations that provide postgraduate certificates. Some courses may require students to study the subject they wish to study at degree level.
Postgraduate diplomas are available in various subject areas and will give students an insight into their chosen field or profession. For those who want more knowledge about law, postgraduate diploma courses can include subjects such as intellectual property rights and data protection laws. If business is more your thing, many postgraduate diploma courses focus on marketing, human resources, and finance.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Postgraduate Diploma?
Postgraduate diploma courses vary in length but can run from nine months to two years, depending on your chosen qualification. A full postgraduate diploma will usually take one year, while a part-time program may last longer due to its flexible timetable. Each course has different entry requirements, so it is essential to check the eligibility criteria before applying.
How are Postgraduate Diplomas Financed?
Students completing postgraduate diplomas will usually have to pay for their studies. However, some funding options are available through the government and employers, so it is worth checking these before applying. Unlike Master’s degrees, you cannot apply for a student loan to cover your postgraduate degree. Therefore, it’s essential to determine whether your finances will cover the fees and potential living costs beforehand.
Why Complete a Postgraduate Diploma?
Many employers recognise postgraduate diplomas as an indication of high-level skills and knowledge, so they can be valuable to any CV. The government also acknowledges the qualification and will allow students to progress onto a Master’s degree or PhD.
Additionally, postgraduate diplomas are the best way to access specific careers. For example, a postgraduate diploma is required for some careers in education, including teaching assistants and school inspectors. It’s also beneficial if you want to be a social worker or psychologist.
So, if you’re undecided about what to do next after your undergraduate degree, a postgraduate diploma could be the perfect choice for you. With so many options available, there’s sure to be one that suits your needs and interests.
You can find out more about postgraduate diplomas on our website. To see what opportunities are available to you now, visit our jobs board. Feel free to contact us with any queries. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to keep updated with the latest news and information from Developing a Student.
