What is a Postgraduate Degree? : Everything you need to know

India is the most populated country in the world, comprising one of the highest numbers of youth in the world. However, our population statistics do not quite align with the literacy rate and higher education rates. Although there has been significant growth in rates of higher education enrollment, India still lags owing to challenges faced by various socio-political and economic factors.

In this light, the New Education Policy of 2020 came up with some major reform measures with a dedicated aim to improve overall education imparting through strategic and effective norms and regulations, all the while matching up to newer demands.

The number of students enrolled in higher education is expected to increase in the financial year 2035 to 92 million. This growth indicates a rise in popularity and demand for higher education in India. 

Amidst this, a very common step is to pursue postgraduate education after completing a bachelor’s degree. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at what is post-graduation, what are its types, and why you should consider a postgraduate degree. Read along as we break down the various nuances of what postgraduate education entails.

What is a Postgraduate Degree?

A postgraduate degree is an advanced academic qualification that can be pursued after completing a bachelor's degree.  A postgraduate program intends to impart in-depth information and specialized abilities in a particular field. These programs are intended to improve professional growth, promote job opportunities, or support scholarly research. 

They entail advanced study, research, and occasionally real-world experience. A postgraduate study can be a viable option for people who want to change occupations, obtain better academic credentials, or specialize in a particular sector.

Types of Postgraduate Degrees

A vast array of postgraduate programs are available in India to meet a variety of professional and academic requirements. Individuals can specialize in their chosen subject, improve their talents, and increase their employment chances with these credentials. 

These programs are made to accommodate the many demands of students who want to specialize in a particular profession, pursue academic goals, or progress in their careers. Every kind of postgraduate degree has special advantages and chances for both professional and personal development.

The various types of postgraduate degrees are:

1. Master's Degrees 
2. Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD)
3. Postgraduate Certificates (PGC)
4. Executive Postgraduate Programs
5. MPhil (Master of Philosophy)
6. Professional Master’s Degrees
7. Doctoral Degrees (PhD)

The following table provides deeper insight into the various postgraduate degrees: 

Type of Postgraduate Degree	Degree Duration	Description	Top Examples
Master's Degrees	1-2 years	Advanced academic qualifications involving coursework and sometimes research.	MA (Master of Arts), MSc (Master of Science), MTech (Master of Technology), MBA (Master of Business Administration), MCom (Master of Commerce)
Postgraduate Diplomas (PGD)	6 months - 1 year	Specialized, shorter programs focused on practical skills in specific fields.	PGD in Management, PGD in Computer Applications, PGD in Marketing
Postgraduate Certificates	6 months	Shorter than PGD, focused on enhancing skills in a specific area.	PGC in Finance, PGC in Journalism
Executive Postgraduate Programs	1-2 years	Designed for working professionals, offering flexibility with a focus on leadership and advanced skills.	Executive MBA, Executive MTech
MPhil (Master of Philosophy)*	1-2 years	Research-focused program, often a precursor to a PhD.	MPhil in Arts, MPhil in Science
Professional Master’s Degrees	1-2 years	Specialized qualifications aimed at specific careers or professions.	LLM (Master of Laws), MEd (Master of Education), MDes (Master of Design)
Doctoral Degrees (PhD)	3-7 years	Research-focused programs that culminate in a dissertation, contributing original knowledge to the field.	PhD in Engineering, Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, etc.

*Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the MPhil degree is set to be phased out in India. You must stay updated with the latest developments in your desired postgraduate study area to ensure the relevance of M.Phil in your field.

Reasons to pursue Postgraduate Degree

You invest time, energy, and money to pursue a postgraduate degree, but also enjoy its fruit in the form of the advantages that can greatly improve your personal and professional life. Let’s take a look at the reasons why should consider a postgraduate degree:

1. Specialized Knowledge and Expertise

• Gain in-depth knowledge in a specific field
• Develop expertise and become an authority in your chosen subject
• Equip yourself with advanced skills that are not covered in undergraduate programs

2. Enhanced Career Opportunities and Advancement

• Avail higher-level jobs and leadership positions
• Increase your employability in competitive industries
• Qualify for roles that require specialized education or advanced certifications
• Improve your chances of career advancement in your current job

Also Read: Top 10 Career Options after M.A. in India

3. Higher Earning Potential

• Postgraduates often earn higher salaries compared to those with just a bachelor’s degree
• Access to higher-paying roles and more lucrative job markets
• Increased earning power throughout your career

4. Personal Growth and Fulfillment

• Intellectual stimulation through challenging coursework and research
• Opportunity for self-discovery and personal development
• Enhance critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills

5. Networking and Professional Connections

• Build a strong professional network with peers, professors, and industry leaders
• Gain access to internships, research projects, and collaborations that can boost career prospects
• Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars that can expand your professional circle

6. Academic and Research Opportunities

• Contribute to groundbreaking research and add new knowledge to your field
• Publish research papers, present at conferences, and engage in scholarly discussions
• Opportunities for fellowships, grants, and teaching roles at universities

7. Career Transition

• Make a successful switch to a new career by acquiring new skills and knowledge
• Pursue a new field or industry with a specialized postgraduate qualification
• Many programs cater to individuals looking to change professions without starting over

8. Development of Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

• Engage in high-level analysis and complex problem-solving
• Learn to approach challenges from multiple perspectives
• Develop critical thinking and decision-making skills that are highly valued in all professions

How to choose the right Postgraduate Degree 

Choosing the right postgraduate degree is a crucial decision that can shape your future career, personal growth, and academic trajectory. Here are key methods and ways that can to help you choose the right postgraduate degree: 

1. Assess Your Career Goals

• Consider how the degree aligns with your long-term career aspirations
• Determine if the degree will open doors to your desired job roles or industries
• Think about the skills and expertise you want to gain for professional growth

2. Identify Your Areas of Interest

• Choose a field you are passionate about and genuinely interested in
• Make sure the subject aligns with your undergraduate studies or career interests
• Reflect on areas where you want to deepen your knowledge or gain specialized expertise

3. Consider Industry Demand and Job Opportunities

• Research the job market and trends in your field to understand the demand for specific qualifications
• Look for fields with growth potential, high employability, and competitive salaries
• Identify industries where there is a shortage of qualified professionals

4. Understand the Program Structure and Duration

• Review the program’s curriculum to ensure it covers topics that interest you and align with your goals
• Consider the program length—whether it’s 1-2 years for a master’s or 3-7 years for a PhD
• Factor in the flexibility of the program, including full-time, part-time, or online options

5. Consider Your Financial Situation

• Research the cost of the degree and additional expenses like accommodation and books
• Look for scholarships, financial aid, or assistantships that might be available
• Calculate potential return on investment, considering future earning potential and job prospects

6. Check Accreditation and Reputation

• Ensure the institution and the program are accredited by recognized education authorities
• Look for institutions with strong reputations and alumni networks in your field of interest
• Read reviews and talk to alumni to get insights into the program's quality

7. Evaluate the Research Opportunities

• If pursuing a research-based degree (like a PhD), explore the research facilities, projects, and faculty expertise
• Determine whether the program provides opportunities for original research or internships
• Look for mentorship or guidance from faculty who specialize in your area of interest

8. Consider Location and Campus Life

• Decide whether you prefer to study domestically or abroad, considering cultural and logistical factors
• Evaluate the location for its proximity to industry hubs, research centers, and networking opportunities
• Think about the campus culture and environment—whether it supports your academic and personal lifestyle

9. Understand the Long-Term Benefits

• Reflect on the long-term impact of the degree on your career trajectory, personal development, and professional reputation
• Consider the alumni network and how it might help you with career transitions and networking
• Factor in how the degree might affect job stability, career mobility, and leadership opportunities

10. Consult Advisors and Industry Experts

• Speak to career counselors, academic advisors, or mentors to get personalized guidance on your decision
• Network with professionals already in the field to understand the qualifications they find most valuable
• Join online forums or groups where prospective students and alumni share their experiences

Why should you consider upGrad for your Postgraduate Journey

The higher education trends are rapidly changing and evolving to meet the demands of the fast-paced world and industry. Thus, apart from core curriculum courses, other mediums of education like online education, skill development certifications, and courses are on the rise. These ways of learning not only provide relevant additional knowledge but also adhere to accommodate daily life with their flexible learning options.

At upGrad, we breathe upskilling, and our main objective is to help you figure out how you can upgrade your existing knowledge and skill set to advance your career towards lucrative opportunities and higher positions. 

So, how exactly do you benefit from upGrad learning? We have a plethora of postgraduate learning options available for you in different domains and specializations. We truly resonate with the idea of flexible and virtual learning, so we present a vast range of options. Be it management, data science, AI, software development, or even soft skills development courses, we got you covered. 

Below are a few examples of our popular top postgraduate courses:

• Management Postgraduate Diploma
• Digital Marketing and Communication Postgraduate Certificate
• Cloud Computing and DevOps Professional Certificate
• Data Science Postgraduate Certificate
• MBA from OP Jindal Global University
• Advanced General Management Postgraduate Certificate

And these are not all! Do you know we also have a range of free courses for you? Explore our free courses now and get a certificate!

Conclusion

A postgraduate degree can offer you a wealth of benefits, ranging from specialized knowledge to enhanced career prospects and personal growth. Thus, postgraduate education is a valuable investment for you if you wish to specialize and excel in a certain field.

As industries continue to evolve, the role of postgraduate qualifications in shaping future professionals will only grow more significant. This is why it also becomes important to carefully choose the right postgraduate degree for yourself. You must select a program that best aligns with your career goals and sets you up for success in the future.

If you are looking to explore your options in higher studies, you can seek professional guidance and book a free counseling session with upGrad. We would be happy to help you figure out your options.

References:

https://studyinindia.gov.in/about-indian-higher-education- 
https://www.statista.com/statistics/271335/literacy-rate-in-india/ 
https://www.dataforindia.com/higher-education/ 
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1286736/india-estimated-growth-of-student-enrolments-in-higher-education/ 
https://www.qs.com/indian-higher-education-trends-2024/