Differences between undergraduate and postgraduate study

How is undergraduate study different from postgraduate study?

Answer ID 1128 | Last updated on 15/01/2024 12.30 PM

The first studies undertaken at university are generally referred to as undergraduate studies, designed to introduce students to the knowledge base within a specific discipline. A Bachelor's degree is the name of an award given to students upon completion of their undergraduate studies.

A postgrad degree is your second degree, following the completion of your undergraduate (or first) degree. When you embark on a postgrad degree, you’re older, wiser and likely a whole lot more focused. Your postgrad study will be an incredibly important time in your life, and one that’ll set you up for a wildly successful career. If you’re considering doing a postgrad degree, here’s what to expect.
  • Specialise
  • Postgrad study will see you spend your time focused more on the area of expertise in which you wish to specialise. You would have required a lot of skills and knowledge in your undergraduate degree, however a postgraduate degree takes what you’ve learned and challenges you to go further to become an expert in your chosen field. The best part is that it won’t even feel like study.
  • Change of direction
  • If you decided after your bachelor's degree that you want to pursue a completely different career, a postgraduate coursework degree will set you up for success in your chosen career path. What you learn from a UWA undergraduate degree is adaptability and breadth through broadening units, work integrated learning and extracurricular activities – all assisting with soft and technical skills. So, when you decide on a new direction, you’ll be able to apply the critical thinking skills that you’ve learned and transition smoothly into your new field.
  • Networks
  • Finally, one of the best things about postgraduate study is the opportunity to expand the network you started building in your undergrad days. The bonds you’ll form with peers and industry links will be long lasting and ones you’ll tap into years down the line. Whether that’s by exchanging information with them about the industry, seeking their help when looking for jobs or using them as references for applications, the network you’ll find during your postgrad experience will be an invaluable one.

Please refer to the Future Students website for more information.

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