Edited by Rivermore Academy
Diplomas are well-known to everyone; Postgraduate may be familiar to some, as this term is often associated with "Master" or "Doctor".
But what about a Postgraduate Diploma?
In fact, the term "Postgraduate Diploma" is more commonly used in the UK or within the European countries. So what does this term mean in the UK and European countries?
Simply put, a Postgraduate Diploma is a qualification higher than a Bachelor's Degree.
In the higher education framework of EU countries, the Postgraduate Diploma is classified at Level 7. Therefore, when we see the term "Postgraduate Diploma," we often see the phrase "Level 7" alongside it.
What is a Postgraduate Diploma equivalent to?
As mentioned earlier, a Postgraduate Diploma is a qualification higher than a Bachelor's Degree and is nearly equivalent to a Master's Degree in the UK, requiring 120 credits.
Why is it said to be nearly equivalent? That's because the strict requirement to become a Master's Degree holder in the UK is to complete a full-time Master's program, which requires 180 credits!
Does that mean working professionals with time constraints cannot become Masters in the UK? Do they have to settle for a Postgraduate Diploma?
Of course not! As mentioned earlier, a Postgraduate Diploma is nearly equivalent to a Master's Degree, meaning you are just one step away from becoming a Master!
So, what's the missing step?
The answer lies in completing a Master's dissertation with 60 credits! By writing one more dissertation, you can accumulate 180 credits and formally become a Master's Degree holder in the UK.
Advance Diploma vs Postgraduate Diploma
Many in Malaysia may have heard of or even obtained an Advanced Diploma, so upon seeing the term Postgraduate Diploma, they may wonder if there is any relationship between the two. After all, they both have the word "Diploma," so there might be some connection.
In reality, apart from the word "Diploma," these two have no real connection. In terms of academic levels, an "Advanced Diploma" is a lower qualification than a Bachelor's Degree, while a "Postgraduate Diploma" is a higher qualification than a Bachelor's Degree.
In summary:
Advanced Diploma > Bachelor's Degree > Postgraduate Diploma
Is a Postgraduate Diploma worth it?
Absolutely! As a gateway to universities in the UK and EU, a Postgraduate Diploma allows you to spend fewer years in school. By simply writing an additional dissertation, you can become a Master's Degree holder in the UK and EU, and even use this as a stepping stone to pursue further studies and become a distinguished Doctor.
If you intend to work in the UK or EU in the future, a Postgraduate Diploma will also be recognized without hindrance, saving you the hassle of spending more time to have your qualifications and degrees evaluated by HR departments in these countries.
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