Diplomas and certificates
e.g. PG Dip, PG Cert, PGDE (formerly PGCE), DipSW
These taught courses are usually in vocational/applied subjects and provide a combination of theoretical background with practical preparation for a specific career, e.g. teaching or social work. Most of these courses last one academic year but some are longer. A relevant first degree is not always required and many are conversion courses which enable graduates to add new vocational skills to a first degree in a different subject. Some courses do however require applicants to have relevant experience.
Masters degrees
e.g. MSc, MPhil, MBA, MRes
Most Masters degrees follow a full-time taught curriculum (sometimes culminating in the award of a Diploma after nine months) plus a shorter period of study (often three months) leading to the submission of a project report or dissertation. There are however an increasing number of courses being offered on a part-time basis for those already in employment. Some Masters degrees are conducted entirely by research (although they may include a taught element in research methods) and can take up to two years, e.g. MPhil. The Master of Research (MRes) provides a blend of research and taught courses in research methods and can be used in preparation for a PhD.
The minimum entry requirement is usually a 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject. It may sometimes be possible for students on Masters degrees by research to convert onto a PhD programme if encouraged to do so by their department.
Doctoral degrees
e.g. PhD, DPhil
This level of qualification involves the in-depth study of a specific topic, usually related to your first-degree subject, with the results presented in a thesis. It normally takes a minimum period of three years' full-time study for a PhD but many take longer. The minimum entry requirement is usually a good 1st or 2:1 honours degree, or a Masters degree in a relevant subject.
Next section - Issues to consider when choosing your career
