What Is a Postgraduate Degree?
First, let’s establish what a postgraduate degree entails and how it compares to undergraduate studies.
A postgraduate degree is an advanced academic qualification pursued after completing undergraduate studies. It provides specialized knowledge and skills in a specific field.
The main types include master’s degrees, doctoral degrees (Ph.D.), and graduate certificates/diplomas.
Postgraduate degrees offer specialized expertise, career advancement opportunities, research prospects, and personal development.
The duration and requirements vary between programs and institutions.
Postgraduate Studies in Australia According to the Australian Qualifications Framework
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national policy administered by the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Skills, and Employment. It sets the standards for educational qualifications in Australia, including undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. Developed in consultation with states and territories, the AQF encompasses credentials from all areas of education and training into one framework.
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) encompasses 10 levels that cover a wide range of educational qualifications. These levels are structured to represent the progression of knowledge, skills, and complexity of learning outcomes. In terms of higher education qualifications, they are typically found within levels 5 to 10 of the AQF.
Graduate Certificate
A graduate certificate is a postgraduate coursework qualification at level 8 of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This qualification allows you to supplement your previous studies without the long-term commitment of a full degree. Many students choose to pursue a graduate certificate after completing their undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor’s degree.
The graduate certificate is a focused program that can be completed in a relatively short period, typically one semester of studies full-time (6 months) or equivalent part-time. The condensed timeframe enables you to quickly acquire specialized knowledge and skills that can be applied directly to your professional pursuits or personal interests.
In addition to standalone programs, universities often offer graduate certificates as a pathway for individuals to advance towards a graduate diploma or a master’s degree.
As an example, here are some graduate certificates offered by Australian higher education institutions:
Graduate Diploma
A graduate diploma in Australia is a postgraduate coursework qualification that provides individuals with specialized knowledge and advanced skills in a particular field or discipline. It is classified at level 8 of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
A graduate diploma program typically requires a longer duration compared to a graduate certificate, usually involving one year (or two semesters) of full-time study or its part-time equivalent. The program consists of a more comprehensive curriculum that delves deeper into the subject matter, offering a broader range of specialized courses or units.
The main difference between a graduate diploma and a graduate certificate is the increased depth and breadth of study. While a graduate certificate focuses on acquiring foundational knowledge and skills, a graduate diploma allows individuals to develop a more extensive understanding of their chosen field. It typically requires the completion of around eight units or courses and may also include a research component.
Below you will find some examples of graduate diploma programs offered in Australian universities:
Masters Degree (Extended)
A master’s degree (extended) is a specialized postgraduate qualification designed to provide in-depth preparation for professional practice in specific fields such as law, medicine, physiotherapy, speech pathology, social work, and others. These programs are tailored to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and advanced skills relevant to their chosen professional area.
Typically, a master’s degree (extended) program lasts for 3 to 4 years when pursued on a full-time basis. It goes beyond the standard duration of a traditional master’s degree, allowing for a more extensive and in-depth study of the subject matter. This extended duration provides students with additional training, practical experience, and a deeper understanding of their profession.
Master’s degree (extended) programs have varying names across disciplines. In law, it may be known as Juris Doctor (JD), but it doesn’t grant the title of ‘doctor’. In fields like medicine or dentistry, it may be called ‘Doctor of …’, allowing graduates to use the title ‘Doctor’ (Dr.) if customary.
However, Master’s degree (extended) programs are not equivalent to doctorate degrees. Official documents clarify that it is a master’s degree (extended), not a doctoral degree.
Here are a few examples of master’s degree (extended) programs:
Masters Degree (Coursework)
A master’s degree (coursework) in Australia is a postgraduate qualification that focuses on advanced knowledge and skills in a specific field. It is a program designed for professionals who want to enhance their expertise and practical abilities in their chosen area of study. In this type of program, students complete a series of core and elective units by attending classes, completing assignments, and sometimes taking exams.
The duration of the program can vary, typically ranging from one to two years of full-time study. Unlike a research-based Master’s degree, which focuses on independent research and a thesis, a master’s degree (coursework) primarily emphasizes coursework and practical applications of knowledge. However, some programs may incorporate a minor research component or project as part of the course requirements.
Here are some examples of master’s degree (coursework) programs in Australia:
Masters Degree (Research)
A master’s degree by research is a postgraduate qualification that emphasises independent research and scholarly work in a specific field or discipline. It is designed for individuals who have a strong interest in conducting original research and making a significant contribution to their field of study.
These programs focus on developing research skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities. Students are expected to conduct their own investigations, collect and analyze data, and produce a substantial thesis or dissertation that presents their research findings.
This degree is typically undertaken after the completion of a bachelor’s degree or a bachelor’s honours degree. The duration of a master’s degree (research) varies. However, it typically takes two years full-time or a part-time equivalent.
It’s important to note that a master’s degree (research) is distinct from a master’s degree by coursework, as it places a greater emphasis on independent research rather than coursework-based learning. This degree often serves as a stepping stone for individuals who wish to pursue further studies at the doctoral level (Ph.D.).
Australian higher education institutions offer a diverse range of research master’s degree programs. Here are a few examples:
Doctoral Degree (Level 10)
A doctoral degree in Australia is one of the highest levels of academic qualifications offered by universities. It is a rigorous research program designed for individuals who aim to make a significant contribution to knowledge and research in their field of study.
There are two main types of doctoral degrees:
- The doctoral degree (research), and
- The doctoral degree (professional).
This type of program typically lasts for 3 to 4 years and requires you to have completed a master’s degree prior to enrollment. A doctoral degree involves conducting original research, producing a well-structured thesis, and contributing to the understanding and advancement of knowledge in the chosen field.
It is a prestigious qualification that prepares individuals for advanced research, academic, or professional roles.
Check out some examples of doctoral degree programs offered by Australian universities:
Higher Doctoral Degree (Level 10)
In Australia, a higher doctorate is an esteemed academic qualification awarded to scholars who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their field of expertise. It serves as formal recognition of their substantial and distinguished achievements in advancing knowledge and understanding.
A higher doctorate goes beyond the standard Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.) and is typically awarded after a candidate has already obtained a doctoral degree. It acknowledges the individual’s significant scholarly accomplishments, usually based on their published work, which is evaluated by national and international experts in the field.
The assessment for a higher doctorate in Australia emphasizes the candidate’s originality, depth of knowledge, and the impact of their research contributions. The evaluation process considers the candidate’s substantial and distinguished body of work, along with their standing and reputation within the academic community.
