What is a PG Diploma?

This article will explain the structure and content of a PG Diploma, and how it differs from other postgraduate courses.

What is a PG Diploma?

A PG Diploma - which may be written as PgD, PgDip, PGD and so on – is a Level 7 postgraduate qualification. A PG Diploma surpasses Bachelor’s Degrees, requiring students to delve deeper into a particular subject area. They tend to be awarded with either a pass, merit or distinction and they are often essential for kick-starting a career in professions such as law or teaching.

Most subjects that are available as a Master’s Degree are also available as PG Diplomas because PG Diplomas tend to consist of the same content, just without certain modules. Check the website of the university that you are interested in to investigate their course structure and to see what they have to offer.

What is the difference between a PG Diploma and a Master’s?

Though the work required by a PG Diploma can be just as challenging as that required by a Master’s degree, they differ in important ways. While a Master’s Degree typically takes a year to complete on a full-time basis, a PG Diploma is much shorter. Completing a full-time PG Diploma usually takes two terms or roughly 30 weeks, but this does vary depending on the institution and the course.

They are therefore ideal for those who are not able to commit the same amount of time that would be required by a full Master’s Degree. A PG Diploma also tends to involve less independent research than a Master’s and doesn’t require students to write a dissertation. In fact, PG Diplomas are usually taught through lectures, seminars and practical assignments.

What is the difference between a PG Diploma and a PG Cert?

A PG Cert (postgraduate certificate) is even shorter than a PG Diploma, taking only one term – roughly 15 weeks – to complete. It is worth noting that the PG Cert can be used as a starting point, allowing you to work towards a PG Diploma and eventually a Master’s if you decide you would like to continue your studies as you go.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for PG Diplomas and PG Certs are often the same as for the equivalent Master's course. They often require a 2:1 degree and some professional training courses also require students to demonstrate that they have undertaken a certain level of work experience.

Again, ensure this is something you have investigated before making your applications.

Costs

Note that although PG Diplomas and PG Certs are cheaper than Master’s Degrees - with fees varying depending on the subject and university – funding options are more limited than for a Master’s. For this reason, you need to be sure that a PG Diploma is right for you and your career before committing to one.

PG Diploma