phd graduate or undergraduate

Undergraduate vs. Graduate: Educate Yourself On The Difference

• Undergraduate Meaning
• Undergraduate Student And Degree
• Graduate Meaning
• Graduate Degree And Student
• Graduate Origin
• Postgraduate Meaning

⚡ Quick summary

The main difference between undergraduate and graduate is that undergraduate is always used in the context of the first level of college or university education (the level where you can earn a bachelor’s degree ). In terms like graduate student and graduate degree , graduate refers to a level of advanced education beyond the undergraduate level, especially a master’s degree or doctorate . The noun graduate is more general, simply referring to a person who has completed a level of education (someone who has graduated ).

The difference between undergraduate and graduate is a difference of degrees (*throws graduation cap in the air to celebrate the pun*).

The level of education that each word involves varies depending on how the word is being used, and there are situations in which both words can be used in the same situation. For example, you can become a graduate student after graduating with an undergraduate degree.

The word graduate can mean very different things depending on whether it’s used as a noun (as in recent   high school graduates ), an adjective (as in graduate student and graduate degree ), or a verb (as in I plan to graduate next May ). The same goes for its shortened form, grad , which can be used as a noun (as in Congrats, grads! ) or an adjective (as in grad program ).

Undergraduate can also be used both as a noun (as in I’m an undergraduate at Stanford University ) or an adjective (as in I’m working toward my undergraduate degree ). It can be shortened to undergrad in both cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have an advanced degree in all the different ways graduate, grad , undergraduate , and undergrad are used, and what they mean in each case.

What does undergraduate mean?

An undergraduate is “a student in a university or college who has not received a first, especially a bachelor’s, degree.” For example, a college student might say I’m an undergraduate at the University of Texas if they were pursuing a bachelor’s degree there.

Undergraduate is also commonly used as an adjective in this same context, in terms like undergraduate student , undergraduate degree , and undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate is often shortened to undergrad as both a noun and an adjective.

In undergraduate, the prefix under- is used to indicate a lower rank or status. The educational status of an undergraduate student is below that of a graduate student.

What’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge ? Here’s a lesson on the two terms.

What is an undergraduate student ? And what is an undergraduate degree ?

An undergraduate student is a student who is pursuing a degree at the first level of higher education (meaning the level after high school) at a college or university. Undergraduate students are typically those working to earn a bachelor’s degree (or, less commonly, an associate’s degree ). These degrees are often referred to with the general term undergraduate degree.

Outside of the US, an undergraduate degree is sometimes called a first degree. There are also other types of undergraduate degrees outside of the US, such as a foundation degree (which, like an associate’s degree, is typically a two-year degree).

What does graduate mean?

As a noun, the word graduate  [  graj -oo-it ] refers to “a person who has received a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” In other words, a graduate is someone who has completed a particular level of schooling or an educational program—a child who just finished kindergarten and a doctor who just completed medical school are both graduates. It can even be used figuratively , as in She’s a graduate of the school of hard knocks.

As a verb, graduate [  graj -oo-eyt ] means “to receive a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” The process of graduating—and the ceremony itself—is called graduation .

As an adjective, graduate [  graj -oo-it ] means something more specific. It’s used to indicate that a student, degree, or educational program is an advanced one, beyond the level of a bachelor’s degree. This sense of graduate is most commonly used in terms like graduate degree, graduate school , graduate program, and graduate student.

What is a graduate degree ? And what is a graduate student ?

Graduate degree typically refers to a degree beyond a bachelor’s, most commonly a master’s.

A graduate student is a student who’s pursuing an advanced degree after having earned their undergraduate degree (such as a bachelor’s degree) by graduating from an undergraduate program. Calling someone a graduate student most often means they are pursuing their master’s degree, but it may be another advanced degree, such as a PhD (You’d most commonly call such students PhD students. Or you might say they are working toward their doctorate or their doctoral degree.)

To earn a graduate degree, graduate students go to a division of a university known as graduate school , and such a program is often called a graduate program. In all of these terms, graduate is often shortened to grad : grad school , grad student , grad program . (A student doesn’t become a graduate student until they take graduate-level courses. For example, if a student graduates with a bachelor’s degree and then later pursues a different bachelor’s degree, they are still an undergraduate student .)

Some graduate studies are referred to in more specific ways: medical students go to medical school to earn their medical degree ; law students go to law school to earn their law degree.

Do you know the difference between these highly-esteemed graduate degrees and titles: PhD, MD, and Dr ?

Where does the word graduate come from?

Graduate comes from the Medieval Latin graduārī, meaning “to take a degree.” It ultimately derives from the Latin gradus, meaning “a step.” Each time you graduate, you take a step to the next level of education.

What does postgraduate mean?

The adjective postgraduate is sometimes used in the same way as the adjective sense of the word graduate, especially in the UK, as in postgraduate student or postgraduate studies.

Postgraduate should not be confused with postdoctoral , which refers to studies, research, or professional work above the level of a doctorate.

How to use undergraduate vs. graduate

The best way to sort out the different meanings of undergraduate and graduate is to determine whether each word is being used as a noun, an adjective, or a verb. Here’s an easy breakdown of the differences.

• undergraduate (noun): A college student pursuing a non-advanced degree, most commonly a bachelor’s degree. Can be shortened to undergrad.
• undergraduate (adjective): Used in the context of colleges and university programs ( undergraduate programs ) where students are pursuing a degree (generally referred to as an undergraduate degree ) that is not an advanced degree. Also sometimes shortened to undergrad.
• graduate (noun): A person who has completed a particular level of schooling or educational program. Can be shortened to grad.
• graduate (verb): To complete a level of schooling (and, typically, to receive a degree or diploma). You can graduate from kindergarten, high school, college, graduate school, medical school, etc.
• graduate (adjective): Used in the context of advanced schooling—a level beyond a bachelor’s degree, most commonly a master’s program. Used in terms like graduate student , graduate school , graduate degree , graduate program , graduate courses , etc. Often shortened to grad.

Examples of undergraduate, undergrad, graduate, and grad used in a sentence

Let’s look at some examples of these words in actual, real-life use to get the meanings straight.

• As an undergraduate, she had studied engineering; as a graduate student, she switched to architecture.
• I completed my undergraduate degree after five years and a lot of hard work.
• As a graduate student, you will be expected to complete a thesis.
• You should start thinking about graduate school applications before you graduate.
• Most of the applicants for this position are recent college graduates.
• I’m still an undergrad, but I’m hoping to start grad school next fall.
• I’m a UGA grad, but I almost went to Georgia Tech.

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PhD Student vs Graduate Student [Correct terminologies]

As you progress down the academic pathway it can become confusing to work out what the appropriate terminology is for your current level of education. Is it PhD student? Is it graduate student? Is the PhD student the same as a graduate? Well, this article will answer all your questions.

Graduate student is an umbrella term for someone with an undergraduate qualification (bachelors, diploma), they are often performing graduate research in a Masters or PhD program. All PhD students are graduate students but not all graduate students are PhD students.

To fully get our heads around each of these definitions, we need to understand exactly what each term really means.

This is where we can look at the actual definitions of PhD student vs graduate student.

Definition of PhD student

A PhD student is someone who is currently enrolled in a doctorate degree program and is in the early stages of their course.

Some institutions require students to undergo a coursework component of their graduate program and are called a PhD student.

After the completion of the coursework component, with the research component still to go, they can be called a PhD candidate .

Definition of Graduate student

A graduate student is a known for a student who continues their studies after completion of their undergraduate degree.

The Cambridge dictionary defines it as:

A student who is studying for a degree that is higher than the one received after four years of study at a college or university.

Who is considered a graduate student?

Graduate students can include:

• Masters students
• PhD students
• Professional Masters
• Graduate academic certificate programs
• undergraduate/graduate hybrid degree programs

Even if you have got an undergraduate degree, there are many more options for you to obtain many more qualifications and build on your education. In these instances, you will be known as a graduate student.

Is a PhD student a graduate student?

Yes, a PhD student is a graduate student.

They have spent up to 4 years in their undergraduate programs in order to qualify for admission into a PhD program.

PhD students are able to call themselves graduate students but many choose to refer to themselves as PhD students or candidates.

Is PhD the same as graduate?

A PhD is the highest education attainable as a graduate.

In order to obtain a PhD one must graduate from an undergraduate degree. From the moment of graduating in their undergraduate degree they are known as a graduate.

The order of becoming a PhD from a graduate is shown in the table below. It also includes what happens after you get a PhD.

Is a doctoral student the same as a PhD student?

Strictly speaking, a PhD student is someone who is pursuing a doctor of philosophy.

A PhD student is a type of doctoral student but not all doctoral students are PhD students. Anyone aiming to achieve the title of ‘Dr’ is a doctoral student.

There are many other different types of doctoral students including:

• Doctor of Arts (DA)
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Design (DDes)
• Doctor of Engineering or Engineering Science (DEng, DESc, DES)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA.)
• Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD, SJD)
• Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)
• Doctor of Music Education (DME)
• Doctor of Modern Languages (DML)
• Doctor of Nursing Science (DNSc)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Doctor of Public Health (DPH)
• Doctor of Sacred Theology (STD)
• Doctor of Science (DSc, ScD)
• Doctor of Theology (ThD)

There are also professional degrees that lead to the person being called Doctor. These professional degrees result in honorific doctor titles, including those found in the table below.

In my 15 years in academia, I would only really refer to someone as a PhD student. However, if someone was to introduce themselves as a doctoral student I would understand them to be a PhD student.

Wrapping up

In this article, we have learned the difference between PhD student vs graduate student.

In summary, a graduate student is an umbrella term that includes anyone that has done an undergraduate qualification and is continuing their education. It includes Masters students, PhD students and others.

All PhD students are graduate students but not all graduate students are PhD students.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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The Difference Between Graduate and Undergraduate Degrees: 10 Things That Matter

Updated: October 13, 2023

Published: September 4, 2019

While both achieve the same goal, to prepare you for something new, and to push your academics further, graduate and undergraduate studies have some very important differences. Most notably, they both have very different possible outcomes, have varying levels of difficulty and commitment, and students’ reasoning for entering programs will vary quite a bit. Some of these are minor, but some matter quite a bit. Read on to learn all about degree levels and the difference between graduate and undergraduate studies.

Photo by Liam Anderson from Pexels

10 differences between graduate and undergraduate school that matter, 1. time commitment.

One of the first things you will realize as a grad student, is where did your life go? In undergraduate school, there is time to split between sports, social activities, volunteering, the list goes on. You’re always busy, but it might not always be school-related.

In graduate school, it can seem like you are always working on school-related tasks, but at least they will be interesting tasks! You’ve thought long and hard about going to graduate school, therefore it’s likely that you are studying something that you love, so the extra time commitment won’t seem so bad. Finally, graduate courses are much more research intense, so the work you do will inevitably take more time. But at least you are working towards something for you as well.

2. Professor-Student Relationship

The relationships between you and your professors are likely to be different than when you were an undergrad. As an undergraduate, you might find yourself in a class of over 300 students! Graduate courses are much more intimate, including online degrees.

Professors can also be more invested in their graduate students, especially if you are doing research together. Make that relationship work for you — learn all you can from your professors, and don’t forget to network towards the end of your studies. You never know who might be a great connection for a job.

3. Entrance Requirements

Requirements to get into graduate school are very different from that of undergraduate school. All undergraduate programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, and graduate programs require undergraduate degrees.

When it comes to standardized testing, requirements also change. To get into most undergraduate programs, especially four-year institutions, standardized tests are usually needed. For graduate school, the same might be true, but you will also find variance on which tests are required depending on the program. Some schools, such as University of the People , do not require entrance exams at all! See here what requirements you’d need in order to study at UoPeople.

Letters of recommendation will vary by school and program but are much more common for graduate school. Most public, four-year universities will not require recommendations for undergrad applications.

4. Post Grad Opportunities

Now here’s a difference between graduate and undergraduate that really matters: What you will do after. Both can lead to further education — undergrad degrees lead to graduate programs, and from there, you can complete post-graduate education such as a PhD.

School programs aside, the doors are much more open if you have completed a graduate degree. You are likely to get paid more with a graduate degree, and more management and upper level positions will be open to you, compared to applicants with undergraduate education.

5. Research

Graduate school is all about research. And while it is still possible to find research opportunities in undergrad, they are seen more as side projects or extracurriculars, instead of a culmination of your graduate education.

In your graduate studies, you will also have opportunities to research something that really matters to you, whereas in undergrad, you might have less of a say in research content.

6. Course Content

Course content as well as course structure is different in graduate school. Content and material is likely to be more challenging in graduate courses. You will also be expected to produce more materials such as papers, presentations, projects, and discussions during your graduate courses when compared to undergraduate courses that may rely on textbooks and passive lectures.

7. Evaluation

How you are graded will depend on programs and schools regardless of graduate or undergraduate status, but there are still some important differences between the two. First of all, when it comes to curving grades, or adjusting grades based on the class’ performance, undergraduate courses are much more likely to implement it. Here’s a little known fact — you can’t graduate with honors in graduate school!

8. Change of Majors

In your undergraduate studies, a change of majors requires little more than a trip and a form signature from an academic counselor. It might mean taking a few extra classes than anticipated, but it is still relatively easy to. In graduate school, however, changing majors or study tracks is extremely difficult because you are admitted into your program as part of the application process.

9. Older & Wiser?

Graduate students already know the ropes. They have learned their best study habits, the subjects they do well on, and the ones they may need extra help in, compared to undergraduate students, who may need some adjustment period to get used to higher education.

Graduate students might, however, also have spent considerable time away from school and may need extra help getting back in the mindset of studying, while undergrad students often come straight from high school and are ready to learn.

10. Interactive Classes

Undergrad classes might be all about reviewing materials, turning in assignments and taking exams. This isn’t always the case, but it is much more likely when compared to graduate school, where classes might have more discussions, require more participation and project-based assignments.

The Undergraduate vs Graduate Student

Photo by Anastasiya Gepp from Pexels

Undergrads are usually younger and full of energy. They are likely using a degree to find out what they want to do, take the next step in life, and have a fun social atmosphere. Graduate students have a different outlook. Some will have more work experience, and all have more school experience. Grad students may already have established their lives, families, and social groups and are more looking to school for just academics.

How Hard is Graduate School Compared to Undergraduate?

It’s harder! We can’t lie to you — graduate school is another ball game when it comes to academics. There is much more of an expectation to use your mind to make inferences and intelligent contributions to your work, compared to recall and memory exercises in undergrad. Graduate school requires much more applied skills and knowledge, and be prepared for a larger time commitment for graduate courses.

Admissions requirements can be harder as well for graduate school. While you might not be required to take a standardized test, if you do, the GMAT and the GRE are much more challenging than undergrad entrance exams.

You may also be asked to submit a portfolio for graduate school admissions, which takes lots of time and effort. On the positive side, however, you will get to show your best work and explain in your own way what makes you a great candidate, instead of relying on test scores.

What is an Undergraduate Student?

Undergraduate studies include Associate’s degrees, such as University of the People’s Associate’s in Health Studies , Associate’s in Computer Science , and Associate’s in Business Administration . Associate’s degrees are shorter and can offer an introduction into a field.

Bachelor’s degrees are also undergraduate programs. There are several types of Bachelor’s degrees, including Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Fine Arts. University of the People offers three Bachelor of Science degrees in Health Studies , Computer Science , and Business Administration .

What is a Graduate Student?

Photo by  Burst  from  Pexels

Graduate studies include Master’s degrees such as Master of Art, Master of Education , Master of Science, Master in Business Administration , Master in Social Work, Master in Fine Arts, and Master in Law (LLM).

University of the People offers flexible online graduate degree programs in Education ( M.Ed ) and Business ( MBA ).

Doctorate students are also graduate students. The most common types of degrees you can earn post graduate are PhD, Doctor of Law, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and Doctor of Medicine.

All in all, while there are many very important differences between undergraduate and graduate school, both have amazing pluses and incredible, yet different, opportunities from each one.

Related Articles

What Is a Doctorate Degree?

A doctorate is usually the most advanced degree someone can get in an academic discipline, higher education experts say.

What Is a Doctorate?

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It's unwise to apply to a doctoral program if you don't have a clear idea of how you might use a doctorate in your career.

In many academic disciplines, the most advanced degree one can earn is a doctorate. Doctorate degree-holders are typically regarded as authorities in their fields, and many note that a major reason for pursuing a doctorate is to increase professional credibility.

"If someone wants to be respected as an expert in their chosen field, and also wants to have a wider array of options in research, writing, publishing, teaching, administration, management, and/or private practice, a doctorate is most definitely worth considering," Don Martin, who has a Ph.D. in higher education administration , wrote in an email.

A doctoral degree is a graduate-level credential typically granted after multiple years of graduate school, with the time-to-degree varying depending on the type of doctoral program, experts say.

Earning a doctorate usually requires at least four years of effort and may entail eight years, depending on the complexity of a program's graduation requirements. It also typically requires a dissertation, a lengthy academic paper based on original research that must be vetted and approved by a panel of professors and later successfully defended before them for the doctorate to be granted.

Some jobs require a doctorate, such as certain college professor positions, says Eric Endlich, founder of Top College Consultants, an admissions consulting firm that helps neurodivergent students navigate undergraduate and graduate school admissions.

Endlich earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree, commonly known as a Ph.D., from Boston University in Massachusetts. He focused on psychology and notes that a doctoral degree is generally required to be a licensed psychologist.

"Since a Ph.D. is a research-focused degree, it can be advantageous to those seeking high-level research positions in scientific fields such as astrophysics or biotechnology," he says.

How Long it Takes to Get a Doctorate Degree

Martin, founder and CEO of Grad School Road Map, an organization that helps grad school applicants navigate the admissions process, says obtaining a doctorate is often a lengthy endeavor.

"Typically it can take between four and six years to complete any doctoral program," he says. "If comprehensive examinations and a dissertation are part of the graduation requirements, it may take a year or two longer. There is no standard amount of time – some students take seven to 10 years to finish."

Endlich says doctoral degree hopefuls should be aware that completing a dissertation may take a long time, especially if unexpected hurdles arise.

"My dissertation, for example, involved recruiting college students to complete questionnaires, and it took much longer than I anticipated to recruit enough subjects for my study," he says.

The standards for a dissertation, which include the proposal and research, are rigorous and usually involve a review and approval by a faculty committee, says Hala Madanat, vice president for research and innovation at San Diego State University in California.

"As part of dissertation requirements, some programs will require publication of the research in high-impact peer-reviewed journals," Madanat wrote in an email.

Types of Doctoral Degree Programs

According to professors and administrators of doctoral programs, there are two types of doctorates.

Doctor of Philosophy

A doctor of philosophy degree is designed to prepare people for research careers at a university or in industry, and teach students how to discover new knowledge within their academic discipline. Ph.D. degrees are offered in a wide range of academic subjects, including highly technical fields like biology , physics, math and engineering; social sciences like sociology and economics; and humanities disciplines like philosophy.

A Ph.D. is the most common degree type among tenure-track college and university faculty, who are typically expected to have a doctorate. But academia is not the only path for someone who pursues a Ph.D. It's common for individuals with biology doctorates to work as researchers in the pharmaceutical industry, and many government expert positions also require a Ph.D.

Professional or clinical doctorates

These are designed to give people the practical skills necessary to be influential leaders within a specific industry or employment setting, such as business, psychology , education or nursing . Examples of professional doctoral degrees include a Doctor of Business Administration degree, typically known as a DBA; a Doctor of Education degree, or Ed.D.; and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, or DNP.

A law degree, known as a juris doctor or J.D., as well as a Doctor of Medicine degree, or M.D., are also considered professional doctorates.

How to Get a Doctorate

Getting a doctorate is challenging. It ordinarily requires a series of rigorous classes in a field of study and then passage of a qualification exam in order to begin work on a dissertation, which is the final project.

Dissertations are difficult to write, says David Harpool, vice president of graduate and online programs at Newberry College in South Carolina. Some research indicates that only about half of doctoral students go on to finish their degree, and a main reason is that many never finish and successfully defend their dissertation

"Many of them are in programs that permit them to earn a master’s on the way to a doctorate," Harpool, who earned a Ph.D. from Saint Louis University in Missouri and a J.D. from the University of Missouri , wrote in an email. "The transition from mastering a discipline to creating new knowledge (or at least applying new knowledge in a different way), is difficult, even for outstanding students."

Learn about how M.D.-Ph.D. programs

There is a often a "huge shift in culture" at doctoral programs compared to undergraduate or master's level programs, says Angela Warfield, who earned a Ph.D. in English from the University of Iowa.

Doctoral professors and students have more of a collaborative relationship where they function as colleagues, she says. And there's pressure on each student to produce "significant and original research."

Many full-time doctoral students work for the school as researchers or teaching assistants throughout their program, so time management is crucial to avoid burnout. However, the dissertation "is by far the biggest battle," she says. The goal is to avoid an "ABD," she says, meaning "all but dissertation."

"In my writing group, we had two motivational slogans: 'ABD is not a degree,' and 'a good dissertation is a done dissertation,'" Warfield, now the principal consultant and founder of admissions consulting firm Compass Academics, wrote in an email.

How Are Doctorate Admissions Decisions Made?

Admissions standards for doctoral programs vary depending on the type of doctorate, experts say.

The quality of a candidate's research is a distinguishing factor in admissions decisions, Madanat says. Meanwhile, leaders of clinical and professional doctorate programs say that the quality of a prospective student's work experience matters most.

Doctoral programs typically expect students to have a strong undergraduate transcript , excellent letters of recommendation and, in some cases, high scores on the Graduate Record Examination , or GRE, Endlich says.

"The size of the programs may be relatively small, and universities need to be sure that applicants will be able to handle the demands of their programs," he says.

Because professional doctorates often require students to come up with effective solutions to systemic problems, eligibility for these doctorates is often restricted to applicants with extensive first-hand work experience with these problems, according to recipients of professional doctorates.

In contrast, it's common for Ph.D. students to begin their programs immediately after receiving an undergraduate degree. The admissions criteria at Ph.D. programs emphasize undergraduate grades, standardized test scores and research projects , and these programs don't necessarily require work experience.

Admissions decisions may also depend on available funding, says Madanat, who works with doctoral students to provide funding, workshops and faculty support to help their research.

Who Is a Good Fit for a Doctoral Program?

Doctoral degree hopefuls "should be interested in making a deep impact on their field, open-minded, eager to learn, curious, adaptable and self-motivated," Madanat says. "Doctoral programs are best suited for those whose goals are to transform and change the fields they are studying and want to make a difference in the way the world is."

Someone who loves to study a subject in great depth, can work alone or in teams, is highly motivated and wants to develop research skills may be a good candidate for a doctoral program, Endlich says.

Because of the tremendous effort and time investment involved in earning a doctorate, experts say it's foolish to apply to a doctoral program if it's unclear how you might use a doctorate in your career.

"The students are being trained with depth of knowledge in the discipline to prepare them for critical thinking beyond the current state of the field," Madanat says. "Students should consider the reasons that they are pursuing a doctoral degree and whether or not it aligns with their future professional goals, their family circumstances and finances."

Rachel D. Miller, a licensed marriage and family therapist who completed a Ph.D. degree in couples and family therapy at Adler University in Illinois in 2023, says pursuing a doctorate required her to make significant personal sacrifices because she had to take on large student loans and she needed to devote a lot of time and energy to her program. Miller says balancing work, home life and health issues with the demands of a Ph.D. program was difficult.

For some students, the financial component may be hard to overlook, Warfield notes.

"Student debt is no joke, and students pursuing graduate work are likely only compounding undergraduate debt," she says. "They need to really consider the payoff potential of the time and money sacrifice."

To offset costs, some programs are fully funded, waiving tuition and fees and providing an annual stipend. Some offer health insurance and other benefits. Students can also earn money by teaching at the university or through fellowships, but those adding more to their plate should possess strong time management skills, experts say.

"Graduate school, and higher education in general, can be brutal on your physical and mental health," Miller wrote in an email.

But Miller says the time and effort invested in her doctoral program paid off by allowing her to conduct meaningful research into the best way to provide therapy to children affected by high-conflict divorce and domestic violence. She now owns a therapy practice in Chicago.

Miller urges prospective doctoral students to reflect on whether getting a doctorate is necessary for them to achieve their dream job. "Really know yourself. Know your purpose for pursuing it, because that's what's going to help carry you through."

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Guide on Getting Into Grad School

Helpful information and exercises for prospective graduate students

Graduate Degrees Awarded at Stanford 2020-21

• 1,822 MA/MS
• 817 PhD, DMA, JSD

If you’re considering grad school for your future, you are probably asking yourself many questions:

• Is grad school the best option for me now? 
• What are the benefits and challenges? 
• What’s the difference between undergrad and grad school? 
• Should I seek a master’s or doctoral program? 
• Which grad programs should I apply for? 
• What’s involved in an application to grad school? 
• What are admissions committees looking for? 
• Who can help me? What resources are available? 
• What are some alternatives to grad school?

These are all important questions to consider, and they should be considered carefully. This guide is organized around the main aspects of the decision-making process and application, which can help address many of your questions. 

Because these decisions and your application for graduate school are complex and time-consuming, this guide was prepared to provide critical information and advice. This guide  also contains questions to ask yourself and exercises to help you prepare your application for graduate programs. Be as honest as possible with yourself, and talk about your answers with close friends and family. You may need to adjust the wording of your answers for your application, but it’s important to begin with an honest self-assessment as you prepare your application.

Using this guide and working on these exercises can help you get started in the right direction. Additional resources and tools are incorporated within this guide. However, remember to also seek help from other people: faculty, advisors, grad students, postdocs, peers, and career counselors. This guide is meant to provide an overview and does not cover everything. Your specific situation can only be addressed by close friends and mentors who know you personally. 

As you address multiple decisions, this can be a stressful time period. But it may help to realize that you are not alone, and that many others have approached these decisions and have  successfully embarked on new adventures. So, remember to find friends to encourage you in this process. We wish you the best in these new adventures.

Undergraduate vs Graduate (PhD) Programs

The experiences of an undergraduate and graduate student can appear deceptively similar. They are both at a university doing coursework and research. However, there are significant differences. Not understanding the depth of these differences can hinder your chances of being admitted and succeeding in grad school.

Undergraduate Programs You are a student “at school X” • Focus on courses and grades  • More objective evaluations of performance from exams and homework • Feedback is relatively frequent • Most activities and performance evaluations are individualistic

You apply to a university or college • Your interests can be very broad • You apply to a discipline or major • Extracurricular activities are valued

Graduate (PhD) Programs You are a student of “Dr. Z” (research advisor) •  Focus on research •  More subjective evaluations and longer periods without concrete feedback •  Collaboration and independence are valued together, which will likely appear to be counter-intuitive— most activities and performance evaluations are individualistic •  Relationship-driven

You apply into a specific graduate program •  Your interests need to be much more specific •  You apply into a specific field within a discipline •  Some programs require you to apply to work directly with a specific professor •  Extracurricular activities are valued less, unless they demonstrate critical skills related to your field

Master’s vs Doctoral Programs

While a typical 4-year undergraduate program refers to pursuing a bachelor’s degree (often a BS or BA degree), a graduate program can refer to pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.

Master’s Programs (MS or MA) •  Master’s programs usually provide much less financial support.  •  Master’s programs usually last about 2 years, but there are shorter and longer programs, with the range usually between 1 to 3 years. •  All master’s programs require coursework, and only some require research that leads to a thesis (a write-up of your research). •  Requirements for master’s programs are usually less than those for doctoral programs.

Doctoral Programs (PhD) •  Doctoral programs usually provide financial support. •  Doctoral programs have a wide range of typical lengths, from 4 to 8 years. The length of the program is very specific to the field. •  In some doctoral programs (e.g. some engineering programs), you earn a master’s degree before earning a PhD. But in many other programs, the master’s degree is not required before pursuing a PhD. •  All doctoral programs require research that leads to a dissertation (longer than a master’s thesis, a write-up of multiple years of research). •  For some doctoral programs, if you are not able to complete all of the requirements, you might be allowed to exit with a master’s degree.

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Should You Go to Grad School Right After Undergrad?

Should you go to graduate school right after college? Or should you take time to get work experience and travel before you go? You’ll need to consider your goals carefully, and then work methodically toward achieving them. Graduate school is a marathon, not a sprint—and your race starts the moment you decide to pursue a graduate degree. Here are six things you should do to figure out your ideal moment to start grad school.

Insider Tip #1: Know Your Goals

Before you start graduate school—whether you opt to do that immediately after college or after a hiatus from school—you should have a clear career goal and realistic expectations of what you can expect to achieve. This is not to say that those things can’t change (they very likely will!), but without them, you’ll have difficulty launching and succeeding in your graduate studies in the first place.

For Academics

If your career goal is to become a professor, do your research to find out how many job openings there are in your field during any given year. Take a look, for instance, at the disparities between job postings and PhDs awarded in the field of history. This is not meant to discourage you from applying to graduate school—only to underscore how important it will be to ensure that you’re a competitive candidate in a tight job market. Do specific research on job placement for the programs you’re considering. (Many programs make job placement information available on their websites; if a program doesn’t, you should inquire!) If a particular program has a poor record of placing PhDs in tenure-track positions—and if landing such a position is your ultimate goal—then it may not be the right fit for you. If you need to accrue additional work or field experience to be a competitive candidate at a program with better placement rates, then take that time! It can make all the difference. You should also have realistic expectations about what achieving your goal may look like. Because PhDs are specialized by definition, there won’t be many openings in your specific field when you’re on the job market. Even if you land a tenure-track job, you are likely to have to relocate when you accept it. If you’re tied to a specific geographic area because of family commitments or personal preferences, then a tenure-track job may not be in your future. (You could probably get adjunct positions in your area with greater ease, but these often do not come with liveable salaries, job security, or health insurance.) Be clear about what you’re willing to do to get a tenure-track job—and then adjust your goals accordingly.

For Non-Academics

If your goal is to work in industry (e.g., pharma, data science, government, nonprofit, or a research institute), then you are likely to have a greater number of options after graduation. Still, long-term planning is key—and a product of the same mindset that will ensure your graduate-school success. Start by identifying several target organizations—places you’d be happy to work one day. Look at job postings on their websites. Find out what the qualifications are for the types of positions you hope to hold. Look up current employees on LinkedIn to get a sense of their career paths. Did they take time off between college and graduate school? If so, how did they spend that time? If not, were they able to acquire work experience during graduate school? Set up informational interviews with people who occupy jobs that Future You might have, and ask them about how they got from where you are to where you want to be.

Insider Tip #2: Understand How Graduate School Differs From College

In college, you probably had at least one advisor, as well as professors and TAs, who regularly checked in with you about your progress. This advisor would have helped to ensure that you were on track to graduate in your senior year—with all requirements for your major, minor, and core courses met or in progress. While you will certainly have an advisor in graduate school—and, in all likelihood, a Director of Graduate Studies—you will have to take much more initiative to ensure that you’re on track to meet your future career goals. Those advocates will likely offer insights into your academic work and remind you of major program deadlines, but they will not always tell you what to do and when to do it. For example, you’ll probably want to write (and publish!) academic papers that you’ll be able to adapt and use as part of your dissertation. Establishing the strategy and timeline for those papers will be up to you. You’ll also want to ensure that, to the best of your ability, you’re getting the right teaching experience for the field you hope to pursue.

Insider Tip #3: Know What Makes a Successful Graduate Student

This brings us to a crucial point. You’ll have a lot of (apparent) flexibility in graduate school—with very few requirements to be anywhere at a specific time. But you’ll also need to possess the maturity to know how to plan, on a long-term as well as a short-term basis. In the long term, you’ll need to figure out major benchmarks—research trips, conference presentations, publications, and chapter deadlines. In the short term, you’ll need to divide up each day so that you’re steadily, logically working toward achieving those longer-term goals. You’ll need to keep in mind that with the freedom to set your schedule comes the immense responsibility of executing reliable productivity.

Insider Tip #4: Remember That Finances Matter—Even If This Is Your Calling

Once you’ve done the work of figuring out your future career goals, you’ll know whether you need a terminal graduate degree—a doctorate (e.g., PhD) or terminal master’s (e.g., MFA)—or a non-terminal graduate degree (e.g., MA or MS). Many PhD programs provide funding for students—tuition scholarships, stipends for teaching, and fellowships for research. While master’s programs (whether for terminal degrees or not) may offer teaching opportunities (and accompanying stipends), they may not also offer scholarships and fellowships. You’ll need to weigh the cost of graduate school against your future earning potential, and then figure out how much you can afford to spend on your degree. Keep in mind that in addition to the out-of-pocket expenses of graduate school, you’ll also pay opportunity costs. The years during which you’re pursuing your degree(s)—even if you are fully funded—will be time during which you’re not collecting a salary or building your earning history. For a program whose duration is upwards of five years, you’ll pay a very high opportunity cost. Moreover, graduate studies can sometimes take a decade (or more!) to complete, and it’s unlikely that anybody will be making sure you’re on track to finish your degree within a specific number of years. You have to determine how long you can afford to spend finishing that degree. After all, funding—when you’re fortunate enough to procure it—is time-limited. You’ll want to plan your graduate research and writing so that it fits within your funding term—and so that you’ll be well positioned to find a new source of funding (in the form of a job or post-doc!) once you complete your degree. In some cases, getting into your dream program may require you to develop your résumé through a one- or two-year (non-terminal) master’s program. Keep in mind, however, that such master’s programs are not likely to come with funding. You would probably have to bear the considerable out-of-pocket costs of an MA or MS program. Then, assuming you landed a place in a PhD program thereafter (during which you’d probably earn another non-terminal master’s along the way), you’d still bear the costs—even if they’re just opportunity costs—of your further studies. Pursuing your calling is almost always worth the cost—but you should be as strategic as you can, as early as you can, to ensure that your calling will also earn you a living.

Insider Tip #5: Plan Ahead—Far, Far Ahead

Regardless of whether you decide to go to graduate school right away, you’ll need to plan your studies in advance. The further ahead, the better.

Application Timeline

If you’re reading this during your junior year or earlier, then you still have time to apply for graduate school immediately following college. Many graduate programs have deadlines as early as October, especially for doctorates. If you think you’ll want to go directly from college to graduate school, you’ll have to hit the ground running your senior year. You’ll need months (or more) of preparation to research programs and scholarships, study for and take the GRE , and get letters of recommendation. If your senior year has already started, or if you just don’t need the added stress on your plate, then you might strongly consider waiting that extra year (or more) to apply. 

GRE and Recommendation Letters 

Either way, don’t wait to take the GRE or ask for your recommendation letters. The longer you’ve been away from school, the harder these will be. Your GRE scores will be valid for five years, so you can take the exam while you’re still in “school mode”—as long as you plan to apply to graduate school within that five-year period. If you opt to take a year or more between college and graduate school, then you should decide—while you’re still in college—who among your professors you’d like to request letters of recommendation from. Mention your future plans to them, and keep copies of the work you did in their classes. When you ultimately decide to apply, ask for letters of recommendation (giving plenty of notice), and supply them with a brief list of your relevant accomplishments as well as copies of any assignments of which you’re especially proud. You may opt to get all of your materials ready in time to apply during your senior year of college—even if you do ultimately want to proceed directly to graduate school. Here’s an inside secret: If you’re accepted to start a grad program one year, you can ask to defer to the following year. The request is not a guarantee, however; it’s still up to your faculty advisor whether you’ll be permitted to defer. 

Graduate Program Research 

At this point, you should already have done research into which programs are likeliest to launch you into your desired future career. Next, try to meet with faculty members who are doing the most interesting work that aligns with your aspirations. See if you connect with these professors; as a graduate student, much of your time will be spent working directly for or with them and their other students. For many graduate degrees, your admission decision will be made by your prospective future advisor (and his or her available grant funding). Remember that not all graduate programs accept new candidates every year. It’s possible that your perfect advisor or program won’t be taking anyone at all next year. 

Insider Tip #6: Know That There Are Benefits (and Drawbacks) for Both Choices

There are positives—and negatives—no matter what you choose. Some are universal (if you start earlier, you’re likely to finish earlier), and some will be specific to you (how graduate school fits into your personal plans, for instance). You’ll need to consider all of the pros and cons carefully before you settle on a graduate school timeline.

Taking a Break

A break brings a number of benefits. In addition to getting a (perhaps much-needed) hiatus from school, it frees you up to do anything you want (so long as you can afford it). Perhaps you’ll want to work or travel, or work and travel. You can likely look forward to a steady income and free time. (No more studying on weekends!) You’ll also build your professional experience and gain a working-world model for how to organize your time into a 40(ish)-hour work week. If you end up taking time off between college and graduate school, you can try to pick up research-assistant work from a professor you hope to study with, volunteer, join community organizations, or complete your own creative projects to build relevant skills. All of these can be incredible experiences, and they’ll undoubtedly provide fodder for your future graduate school personal statements . Most of all, the time management skills you’ll cultivate are likely to help you immensely as you embark on your graduate studies. Still, taking time off can present challenges for returning to school. Taking extra time will also extend your studies further into the future. If, for instance, you’re planning on finishing a doctoral program, then it’s going to take a huge amount of self-discipline to get through those four to seven-plus years. In addition, as you get established in a career, your goals might change. On a personal level, you might meet your soulmate, and even decide to start a family. None of this means that you can’t still apply to graduate school later, but you’ve got to know yourself, and consider whether you would be disappointed if your goals ultimately change.

Going Directly to Graduate School

There are many benefits to pursuing graduate school immediately following college. As we said, the sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll finish. Graduate school is a long haul, and an early start can help reduce the effect of prolonged study on your personal life. You’ll also have momentum from your college days—and lots of current relationships with faculty members. Still, you may not have the experience, maturity, or time-management skills to succeed in graduate school. You may not (yet) have the credentials to gain admission. And even if you do get in, starting too soon may mean that you don’t finish at all. You’ll also be forgoing the opportunity to earn (and save!) money, and to get real-world experience before you go back to school. Even if you land a fellowship, those four to seven-plus years come with opportunity costs of their own: money not (yet) saved, and career experience not (yet) accrued.

A Final Word

The right time to go to graduate school is when you know you can be a successful graduate student. You’ll need to be an effective planner and initiative taker; you’ll need to have the maturity to rebound from disappointments and the stamina to complete a long project on your own, without much interaction or (potentially) direction. Above all, you’ll need to be mentally ready for the marathon of graduate studies. If you’re not ready yet, you can be in the future! With practice and commitment, you can learn to be great at anything. In the meantime, prepare for your future by keeping an eye on those top programs and deadlines. Think about where you want to go and how you’re going to get there. You’ll never be too old—or too young—to pursue graduate studies.

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• Scholarships

Difference Between Undergraduate, Graduate and Postgraduate

Jennifer Finetti Aug 12, 2022

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As a high school student , you’ve probably started thinking about college. Maybe you even started to do research and narrow down your options. You may have come across the following terms: undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate degrees.

So, what is the difference between undergraduate and graduate and postgraduate?

Read on to learn more! 

What is an undergraduate degree?

After students finish high school, they get an undergraduate degree. An undergraduate degree refers to either a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree. When people talk about going to college or university , they are talking about getting an undergraduate degree.

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How many years is an undergraduate degree?

There are two levels of undergraduate degrees: associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees. An associate degree requires 2 years to complete, and typically is earned at a community college . A bachelor’s degree requires completion of four years of study.

Students interested in earning a bachelor’s degree can either complete their entire degree at a four-year college or university OR they can attend a community college for their first two years, and then transfer to a university for their final two years.

What is a graduate degree?

After a student gets their undergraduate degree, they have two options. They may either get a job or continue with their studies. If they choose to continue with their studies, they pursue a graduate degree.

A graduate degree is any degree that is above a bachelor’s degree. This includes a master’s degree or doctoral degree . Master’s degrees take around 2-3 years to complete. Doctoral degrees take around 5-6 years.

Graduate degrees are typically more narrowly-focused than an undergraduate degree. This enables students to dive more deeply into their specific career interest, gaining the knowledge and expertise needed in their chosen field. Oftentimes, a student must have a graduate degree to get a job. Somebody seeking a career as a clinical social worker, must have their Master’s of Social Work.

You don’t have to get a graduate degree right after you finish your undergraduate degree. Many students take a break after their undergraduate degree and decide to work or travel instead. It’s common to see mature students in their late 20s and 30s (and even older) who decide to go back to school to get a graduate degree later in life.

To get accepted into graduate school, you must have a bachelor’s degree. This means that you must graduate from a 4-year undergraduate college or university. A student can only pursue a graduate degree if they already have a bachelor’s degree.

What is a postgraduate degree?

Students get confused with the term “postgraduate degree.” There actually isn’t a real difference between the two. Postgraduate is used interchangeably with graduate. Like a graduate degree, postgraduate refers to the range of higher degrees past the undergraduate degree. This includes both master’s degrees and Phds .

Difference between undergraduate and graduate and postgraduate

Undergraduate degree programs and graduate degree programs are very different from one another. Undergraduate programs help students gain basic knowledge in a major , or even in a few majors. Students must take a variety of courses, and not only courses relating to their major. They usually spend the first few years fulfilling general course requirements.  

Graduate programs are very different. You go to graduate school to learn something very specific. So, all the courses you take relate to your field of study.

Another big difference between the two is switching majors. In undergraduate programs, students aren’t always sure what they want to major in . Even if they choose a specific major, they may end up changing it. Undergraduate programs allow students to switch majors. It is also fairly easy to transfer to another school for any given reason.

Because graduate programs are so specific, it’s not easy to switch your field of study. You would have to fulfill new requirements and go through the application process all over again.

Another big difference is class size. Undergraduate classes tend to be much larger than graduate classes. In graduate programs, class sizes are much smaller.

Because of the difference in class size, teacher-student interaction also differs. In undergraduate programs, there isn’t much room to interact with your professors. There are also fewer opportunities to participate in class.

Graduate programs are more intimate and thus, more dynamic. Students have more opportunities to participate in class discussions. They also have more opportunities to work with their professors.

To get accepted into an undergraduate program, students must take the SAT or ACT . Other requirements include a minimum GPA , letters of recommendation  and personal statements . Colleges and universities all have their own requirements.

Many graduate programs require students to take an entrance exam such as the GRE, or specialized entrance exams for law school or medical school. Not all graduate programs require an entrance exam, so be sure to check the requirements for the program you are applying for.

Graduate programs also typically require that certain undergraduate classes be completed prior to applying, so you’ll want to check to be sure that you have completed any required courses. Sometimes graduate programs will allow you to complete missing prerequisites while enrolled in your graduate degree program.  

Final thoughts

Whether you have already started your bachelor’s degree or you’re still in high school, it’s nice to get an idea of what your options are. This can help you plan the classes you want to take in college or university and make the most of your degree.

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Jennifer Finetti

As a parent who recently helped her own kids embark on their college journeys, Jennifer approaches the transition from high school to college from a unique perspective. She truly enjoys engaging with students – helping them to build the confidence, knowledge, and insight needed to pursue their educational and career goals, while also empowering them with the strategies and skills needed to access scholarships and financial aid that can help limit college costs. She understands the importance of ensuring access to the edtech tools and resources that can make this process easier and more equitable - this drive to support underserved populations is what drew her to ScholarshipOwl. Jennifer has coached students from around the world, as well as in-person with local students in her own community. Her areas of focus include career exploration, major selection, college search and selection, college application assistance, financial aid and scholarship consultation, essay review and feedback, and more. She works with students who are at the top of their class, as well as those who are struggling. She firmly believes that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can succeed if they stay focused and work hard in school. Jennifer earned her MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, and her BA in Psychology from University of California, Santa Cruz.

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Graduate vs Undergraduate Degree: Which Is Best for You?

Deciding between a graduate vs undergraduate degree can be challenging. After completing your undergraduate degree program, should you enter the job market or apply to graduate schools? Understanding key differences between these types of degrees can help you make the best choice for your career goals.

In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between graduate vs undergraduate degrees. We’ll also look at how a graduate or undergraduate degree can allow you to achieve your professional goals and enhance your future earnings potential. 

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What is a graduate degree.

A graduate degree is an advanced degree in a particular field of study that you pursue after earning an undergraduate degree. A graduate student is someone who is studying for a more advanced degree than the undergraduate degree that they already have. 

Types of Graduate Degrees

• Master’s degrees, such as a Master of Science (MS) or Master of Arts (MA)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees
• Professional doctoral degrees

What Is an Undergraduate Degree?

An undergraduate degree is a degree that you earn by completing an undergraduate program at a college or university. Undergraduate students work to achieve this degree after completing their high school education. It involves all post-secondary programs up to the bachelor’s degree level. This degree is also sometimes called a first degree or college degree.

Types of Undergraduate Degrees

• Associate degrees
• Bachelor’s degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) 

Is a Graduate Degree Faster Than an Undergraduate Degree?

Yes, a graduate degree is often faster than an undergraduate degree. You can complete graduate programs within a shorter timeframe. Typically, a full-time student will take six month to two years to earn a graduate degree like a Master of Education or Master of Business Administration. Undergraduate study requires an average of 120 credit hours and at least three years of coursework.

Is a Graduate Degree Easier Than an Undergraduate Degree?

No, a graduate degree is not easier than an undergraduate degree. Education USA reveals that graduate courses are more advanced and require more in-depth training than undergraduate courses. During a graduate program, professors ask students to apply concepts, skills, and knowledge that they have acquired from their undergraduate programs.

Is a Graduate Degree Better Than an Undergraduate Degree?

Yes, a graduate degree is better than an undergraduate degree. Workers with a higher level of education have higher earning potential and better career opportunities than those with lower qualifications. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, bachelor’s degree holders had an unemployment rate of 5.5 percent compared to 4.1 percent for those with a graduate degree.

5 Key Differences Between a Graduate Degree and an Undergraduate Degree

1. entry requirements.

A student must have completed a bachelor’s degree program to apply for graduate programs. In comparison, a high school diploma or GED is the only prerequisite when applying to an undergraduate program.

2. Classification of Degrees

Undergraduate programs award associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees. An associate degree is a college program that takes two to three years, compared to a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years. In comparison, graduate degrees include master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and professional programs.

3. Level of Focus

Undergraduate studies are broader than graduate studies and require that students take classes in a wide variety of fields. An undergrad takes more courses per semester than a grad student. 

For a full-time undergraduate student, this is generally between 15 and 18 credits per semester or four to six courses. Grad students take fewer classes per semester, but graduate-level courses are more intensive with a specialized focus on a student’s fields of study.

4. Classroom Settings

Most institutions accept more undergraduate students than graduate students. This results in smaller class sizes in graduate classes, allowing for better class discussions and more opportunities for mentoring. By contrast, an undergraduate should expect a larger class size, especially in the first few years of their program.

5. Potential Job Earnings

Graduate degree holders tend to earn more than undergraduate degree holders due to their advanced knowledge and professional experience. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that workers with a graduate degree have weekly earnings of $1,497 , which is higher than the average salary of $1,248 earned by bachelor’s degree holders.

Jobs That Require a Graduate Degree

• Engineering Manager. This job involves overseeing engineering activities and implementing new initiatives. It requires a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management and offers an average annual salary of $149,530 .
• Human Resources Manager. This job is concerned with the administrative, recruitment, and welfare operations of a company. Becoming a human resources manager requires a Master’s Degree in Human Resources or a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and offers an average salary of $121,220 .
• Chief Information Security Officer. This role involves overseeing a company’s data and cyber security operations . To qualify as a chief information security officer, you need to have a Master’s Degree in Cyber Security. The average pay for this job is $159,877 .

Jobs That Require an Undergraduate Degree

• Information Systems Manager. This job requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming or Computer Science. Professionals on this career path specialize in maintaining an organization’s infrastructure systems and databases. They oversee debugging, building, and updating plans.
• Petroleum Engineer. This job involves the drilling, extraction, exploration, and production of crude oil. Petroleum managers tackle problems that arise in oil operations. The requirement for this career is a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering.
• Accountant: An accountant manages the finances of a business or organization. Accountants specialize in auditing the organization’s accounts and assessing risks. They are relevant in every organization that engages in business transactions.

Should You Get a Graduate Degree or an Undergraduate Degree?

You should consider getting at least an undergraduate degree. Undergraduate classes offer foundational knowledge and typically prepare you for an entry-level position . A four-year degree is also typically the main prerequisite for admission into an advanced-level graduate program. A graduate degree will allow you to access better career opportunities.

Graduate Degree vs Undergraduate Degree FAQ

Yes, you can work toward an undergraduate degree and a graduate degree at the same time thanks to accelerated degree programs . In these programs, students take undergraduate degree courses in their first three years and begin their graduate study in the fourth year. This way, students graduate with two degrees in four or five years. 

Yes, distance learning is possible for undergraduate and graduate degrees. There is a wide variety of distance learning programs offered by universities worldwide. This is especially useful for students who must work a job during their studies.

The admission requirements for an undergraduate program will differ based on the institution you’re applying to. They will generally include the completion of a high school diploma and good grades on your high school transcript. 

No, you can’t enroll in a traditional graduate program without an undergraduate degree. You must have a bachelor’s degree in your field of study. At some schools, you may be accepted as a graduate student if you have an associate degree and many years of in-field experience. 

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Undergraduate vs Graduate: What Is the Difference?

Confused about undergraduate vs graduate this guide may be able to help. here, we define undergrad and grad, then discuss each of their differences.

Updated by TCM Staff on 8th June 2023

8th June 2023

In the United States and in many countries worldwide, you might hear people mentioning the terms graduate and undergraduate in reference to college programs and levels of education . Yet, there are many who find themselves confused as to what these two terms actually mean.

Undergraduate and graduate studies result in the same thing once completed: a college degree. However, the main differences between the two lie in their nature, level, and the type of degree you can achieve in the end.

Undergraduate programs award associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees, while graduate programs offer master’s and doctoral degrees. But what else is the difference between undergraduate and graduate?

In this article, we explore undergraduate vs graduate and go through each of their difference to help you better understand. We’ll compare undergrad vs grad meaning and answer the question, “what is an undergraduate degree vs a graduate degree?”

What is an Undergraduate Degree?

Put simply, an undergraduate degree is the type of degree you earn straight out of high school (or earning your GED). There are two types: associate and bachelor.

Undergraduate degrees provide you with some additional general education, but typically go further than that and give you specialized training to help you go into a career you want. While earning an undergraduate degree, you’ll pick up some technical, vocational, practical, and theoretical skills and knowledge that can help you go into your field of interest.

Note that you can earn your undergraduate degrees completely online if you wish. However, you can also opt to go the on-campus route if that’s what you prefer.

Before we get into undergrad vs grad, let’s first look at the two types of undergraduate degrees.

Associate Degree

When you’re looking for the difference between graduate and undergraduate degrees, the dissimilarity is easiest to spot when considering the associate degree.

Associate’s degrees are the first rung on the ladder of higher education. There is a misconception that associate’s degrees are simply vocational certifications, but that’s not the entire truth. Although associate’s degrees will also prepare you with the necessary skills and knowledge to start a career, they tend to build more transferable and versatile skills than vocational programs.

Earning an associate degree typically takes two years. It’s much less in-depth than a four-year bachelor’s degree but can offer you enough knowledge to begin a career.

Most associate degrees require you to earn 60 credits to graduate. If you one day choose to continue your education, you can move on to a bachelor’s degree. Many universities will take your associate degree as transferable credit, so you’ll only have to complete another two years for your bachelor’s.

Bachelor’s Degree

When comparing graduate vs undergraduate degrees, it’s likely that you’ve already heard of the bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degrees are the most common type of degree, as most people want to graduate from a four-year program.

Bachelor’s degrees take four years on average to finish if you study full-time. By earning your four-year degree, you can become career-ready for almost any field you want (barring the ones that require professional degrees). Most bachelor’s degrees will require you to earn 120 degrees to graduate.

What is a Graduate Degree?

We can’t define the difference between graduate and undergraduate degrees without first answering the question, “what is a graduate degree?”

Like the undergraduate degree, a graduate degree is a form of higher education. However, it is a more advanced academic degree that often even requires you to first earn a bachelor’s degree. Graduate programs are highly specialized and allow you to gain more expertise in your field of work. There are two kinds: the master’s degree and the doctorate.

In the battle of graduate versus undergraduate, at least in terms of salaries, it’s easy to see who comes out on top. If you look at graduate degree vs undergraduate degree earnings, you’ll notice that graduates typically make more money . The subsequent pay rise from earning a master’s degree is enough to motivate many to go back to grad school. However, some may choose to go even further and earn a PhD.

Graduate degrees tend to revolve around a lot of research or practical experience. For this reason, not all programs are available to study online.

Let’s look at the two types of graduate degrees below.

Master’s Degree

A master’s degree typically requires two years to complete when studying full-time. You’ll usually need to have earned a bachelor’s degree before you can earn a master’s degree, although there are many “pathway to master’s” programs offered at various colleges and universities. These pathway to master programs may offer you an accelerated track into your master’s degree, often cutting your four-year bachelor’s program shorter.

Many professions or employers may require you to have a master’s degree before they will even consider hiring you.

Doctoral Degree

A doctoral degree, or a doctorate, is the highest level of academic study available. Once you earn yours, you’ve essentially become an expert in your field of choice.

Doctorates are the most challenging degrees to earn. They can take as long as eight years (or even more) and often require intense research or practical experience along the way.

Is it worth earning a doctorate? It depends on your passion for your work. Some people may choose to earn theirs simply because a doctoral degree can mean an even bigger salary bump .

Undergraduate vs Graduate Degree: Admissions Requirements

Now that we’ve discussed undergraduate and graduate meanings and definitions, let’s take a look at admissions requirements.

Admissions requirements are another thing where a graduate student vs an undergraduate student will differ. You’ll need to meet different requirements and submit different documents.

Applying for an undergraduate degree will require you to have a high school diploma (or sometimes a GED). You’ll need to pay the application fee at each school, though this fee can be waived in some cases. If the school you’re applying to requires standardized test scores, you’ll need to take the ACT or SAT. Other things you’ll need include your high school transcript, FAFSA, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. You may also be asked to submit a portfolio or CV. Note that some schools may not require all of these, so it’s best to check first.

Graduate degree admissions are somewhat different. You’ll usually need a bachelor’s degree for a master’s, and a master’s degree for a doctorate. However, in some cases, you may be able to earn your doctorate without a master’s degree. You’ll need to submit standardized test scores like the GRE (or the specialized test you need depending on your program). Of course, you’ll also need your undergrad transcript, FAFSA, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. You may also be asked to submit a portfolio or CV. Again, not all programs will require the same things.

What Is the Difference Between Undergraduate and Graduate?

The best way to compare graduate vs undergraduate is to simply put them side by side. Take a look at the table below:

Undergraduate vs Graduate: Key Differences in Summary

Let’s take a look at the differences in summary:

• Undergrad programs are typically more general and offer general education classes in various subjects. Graduate programs do not have general education and are instead highly specialized. Graduate degrees are more advanced overall.
• You may find that your undergraduate class is far larger than a graduate class. Graduate programs are small and typically offer limited slots and, as such, are highly competitive. In graduate programs, students often work much more closely with their professors.
• Most undergraduate degrees require a capstone project or thesis to graduate. Master’s degree programs may offer thesis and non-thesis options, while doctorate programs often require a dissertation.
• You’ll have a much easier time switching classes, professors, or schools when earning your undergraduate degree. Graduate degrees are often unique because they are highly specialized or niche programs.
• The admissions requirements vary in terms of the type of standardized tests you need. You’ll also need different diplomas and transcripts (high school or undergrad).
• Undergraduate students often need to juggle more courses (15-21 credit hours) per semester than graduate students (12 credit hours).
• Graduate programs are usually highly research-centric.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a bachelor’s degree undergraduate or graduate.

A bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate course. It is usually required as a precursor to a graduate degree.

Is 4 years graduate or undergraduate?

When you say “four-year program,” it’s usually in reference to a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate program.

What are undergraduate courses?

Undergraduate courses are often classes that you are required to take when earning your bachelor’s degree. Each course is a corresponding number of credit hours. Most bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits to finish.

We’ve talked about the graduate and undergraduate meaning and even took a look at admissions requirements. But just to wrap up, an undergraduate degree is one you can earn after high school (or after earning your GED), such as an associate's or bachelor’s degree. A graduate degree usually can be either a master’s degree or a doctoral degree. You can start earning your master’s after you earn a bachelor’s, and you can start working on a doctorate after you’ve earned your master’s.

We hope that this undergraduate vs graduate comparison has helped you figure out the main differences between both. Good luck!

If you’re worried about how you can finance your education, a scholarship can help. You can check out these undergraduate scholarships or these graduate scholarships to get you started.

Graduate vs. Undergraduate

In the United States, an undergraduate or an "undergrad" is a student pursuing a bachelor's degree (usually 4 years) at a college or university or a 2-year associate's degree program at a college, community college or vocational/technical school. A graduate or a "grad student" is a student who, having obtained a bachelor's degree, is now pursuing a master's or "graduate degree" in a 1-6 year graduate school program that is typically completed in 2-3 years.

These concepts are often confused, because the terminology in much of the rest of the world is different. What's known as undergraduate studies in the US is referred to as graduate studies in most other countries. And the equivalent for graduates (graduate students, graduate studies) in the US are known as post-graduates (or post-graduate students, post-graduate studies) in most of the rest of the world.

Comparison chart

Video explaining the differences.

Higher Education Programs

In the U.S., graduate students go to accredited colleges and universities for 1-6 years (typically 2-3) after earning a bachelor's degree in order to specialize in a field and increase their earning power by receiving a master's or doctoral degree. General master's degrees are Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS or MSc); globally, other more common and specialized degrees include

• Master of Education (MEd)
• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
• Master of Music (MMus)
• Master of Public Administration (MPA)
• Master of Research (MRes)
• Master of Theology (Mth)

Undergraduate degrees in the U.S., acquired after completing a 4-year college or university program are Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS or BSc). There are dozens of bachelor's degree specializations that are called tagged degrees in everything from architecture to information systems, biology to English literature, and management to performance (theatrical).

Two-year Associate in Arts (AA or A.A.) also offers dozens of specialties. These degrees are fundamentally geared towards support positions in a variety of fields including automotive maintenance, early childhood special education, culinary arts, medical assisting , legal office administration, graphic arts, etc.

Outside the U.S.

While many countries consider U.S. undergraduate degrees to be graduate degrees in their nation, and U.S. graduate degrees to be post-grad citations, degrees earned in the U.S. are widely accepted worldwide as indications of a degreed individuals knowledge, capability and performance value. In fact, almost one million of the 4.5 million international students seeking degrees do so in the U.S. because of their value in the world job market.

Admission Requirements

Undergrads pursuing a bachelor's degree are usually required to take the Scholastic Aptitude/Assessment Test (SAT), or the American College Testing (ACT) test . International students may also have to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Test scores from all of these exams influence the applicant's choice of schools and chance of being admitted to them. Some colleges and universities may require a resume or personal profile and letter(s) of recommendation.

Undergraduates pursuing a two-year community college or vocational/occupational school are required in almost all cases to have a GPA of 2.0, a high school diploma. They may also be asked to take a school's entrance exam and pass language and communication capability screening.

For graduate school admissions, applicants also have to have a bachelor's degree, and, in most cases, a high grade point average (GPA) in academic achievement. Applicants are almost always required to have taken the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) standardized test and submit test scores withthe application. Also required are the applicant's undergraduate transcript and, typically, letter(s) of commendation.

Colleges and universities for all degree pursuits expect the applicant to complete a full application (school-specific in most cases), and often include an essay on a topic relevant to the applicant's academic pursuit as well as a personal profile. These applications are submitted with an application fee from $35-$60 on average, although some colleges do not require a fee and others have a higher one. Most schools also require the applicant to apply for financial aid as part of the process; the U.S. Department of Education provides the most comprehensive system online for application: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) .

• Graduate school admission: 3.0-3.3 GPA minimum
• Undergraduate school admission: 3.0 GPA average for large selection of school choices, and 3.75 minimum for Ivy League and Top 10 schools
• Vocational/Occupational 2-year degrees: 2.0 GPA minimum
• Earnings and Unemployment Rates by Educational Attainment - Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Is College Worth It? - The Economist
• Current Trends in the Teaching Profession - National Center for Education Statistics

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Articles & Advice > Graduate School > Articles

Master's or PhD: Which One Should You Choose?

You know you want an advanced degree, but just how advanced? Keep reading to discover the key differences between master's and doctoral degrees.

by GradSchools.com Graduate School Directory

Last Updated: Dec 18, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 20, 2011

Just as there are many reasons people choose to go to graduate school, there are many options from which they may choose. Do you want to attend full-time? Maybe you want to go part-time and work. Or perhaps an online program option will work best for you. But before you can decide on the format type of your program, you need to decide on your program. If you’ve selected a field of study, you may be wondering whether you should get a master's degree or a doctoral degree. Here are some things to consider to help you choose which one is best for you.

3 key differences between programs

Before you can properly weigh the pros and cons of a master’s degree vs. a doctoral program, you must understand the major differences between the two programs. And although that may sound like pros and cons in itself, a pros and cons list is based mainly on your personal preference. So before figuring out preference, you must consider the facts, and these are it.

A graduate degree requires a significant investment of time. Master's degrees require less time than doctoral degrees. Typically a full-time student can acquire a master's degree in about two years. A PhD usually requires at least five to six years and many people take seven to nine years.

The adage "time = money" was never so true as with graduate school. Since a PhD takes longer to complete, it also requires more money. (Not that a master's degree is cheap either!) The flip side to this is that a PhD may yield a higher salary upon completion and is therefore worth the increased cost long term. With both degrees, school costs money (tuition, fees, books, etc.). In addition, however, there is also a significant loss of money if the student is not working or is earning low wages through assistantships or part-time employment. Many people find they must either live a Spartan lifestyle for many years or find themselves strapped with huge loans when they graduate .

Graduate school takes work. Most people are not going to argue with this. However, many students who drifted through college are surprised to find that graduate school requires a much larger commitment in terms of work and intellectual energy. Graduate schools are frequently very competitive. Students who are taking a full course load as well as teaching often find themselves overwhelmed. And of course, the many years of school required for a PhD require perseverance on a scale above and beyond what undergraduates must contemplate. The difference between college and graduate school lies in the ability of the student to focus on their field and the subjects and areas that most interest them. While graduate school requires more work, most students find the work enjoyable since it involves an area in which they are very interested.

Related: Great Expectations: How Grad School Differs From Undergrad

The what ifs of choosing a master's or PhD

So we know that graduate school requires time, money, and commitment for both a master's and a PhD. So which should you choose?

• If all you want is a raise, a PhD is probably not the road to choose. A master’s degree will boost your career possibilities enough for the kind of raise you want.
• If you love learning in and of itself , then the work required for a PhD may be worthwhile. Master's degrees tend to be more career oriented while PhD's tend to be more research oriented since they’re preparing people for highly academic, research-based careers.
• If you want to save time and progress your career, a master's degree has benefits in that it requires less time and money than a doctoral degree but will still set you apart from those who only have a bachelor's. A master's can allow specialization within a field. The degree works well for those who’ve been working in a career for some time and hope to advance within their field.
• If you’re looking for a new path in life, a master's degree can also be an excellent method of changing careers. For those who’ve found their career or undergraduate education aren’t leading them in the direction they would like to go, a master's degree can allow them to start fresh by gaining new knowledge and skills.
• If you want to become a professor, a PhD is practically mandatory. Even for those few who can find teaching positions with only a master's, most schools want to see progress toward a PhD.
• If you really want to impress, a PhD can also be helpful outside the world of academia in today's increasingly competitive job market. Businesses are searching for extremely qualified people who have demonstrated intelligence, perseverance, and the ability to learn. A PhD can open doors.
• If you want to impact the world with original work, PhD work requires original research that contributes new information to your chosen field of study. People interested in pursuing a PhD should love their studies and be excited by the prospect of meaningful contribution.

Related:  Choosing the Right Graduate Degree for Your Goals

Making your decision

To summarize, a PhD may be worth it if you truly love your field, enjoy your studies, and want the benefits and prestige associated with the doctoral degree. If you are simply looking to change fields or gain a promotion or do not think you could maintain interest through at least five to six years of school, then a master's is probably a better choice. However, it is worth noting that you may be able to get more financial aid for a PhD Since it takes longer, schools recognize that those trying to acquire their PhD's need more assistance than those who only want a master's degree. This adds an interesting dimension to the application process for two reasons.

First, if you think you may want a PhD but still are not sure, it is probably better to apply to the doctoral program. There is no penalty for changing your mind later and deciding to leave with a master's degree, and it increases your chances of getting financial aid. The second consideration is that the PhD program can be more competitive, and applying to it rather than the master's degree program might decrease your chances of admission. If you are denied entrance to the PhD program, you could ask them to then consider you for the master's degree program, but that may not be allowed.

Related:  7 Important Things to Do Before Applying to Graduate School

We’re glad you came seeking advice on which advanced degree program is right for you. It’s a big decision to make that you shouldn’t take lightly, and seeking the right knowledge to make an informed decision is only going to benefit you. Use this advice, take some time to think it over, and go forward knowing you’re making the best decision for your future goals and career.

Once you’ve made your decision on applying to a master’s or PhD program, start searching for just the right one with our Graduate School Search tool .   

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• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Prepare for a PhD as an Undergraduate

Last Updated: September 1, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Carrie Adkins, PhD . Carrie Adkins is the cofounder of NursingClio, an open access, peer-reviewed, collaborative blog that connects historical scholarship to current issues in gender and medicine. She completed her PhD in American History at the University of Oregon in 2013. While completing her PhD, she earned numerous competitive research grants, teaching fellowships, and writing awards. This article has been viewed 77,353 times.

Getting a PhD is highly rewarding and equally tasking. You should get to know as far in advance as possible that there is a good amount of prep work to do. That said, you can begin planning for your PhD as early as freshman or sophomore year of undergrad. Preparing for a PhD requires you to plan, work hard and study hard, and getting to know the people around you.

Choosing the Path You Want

• Don't approach any professor at random. Look at the department you’re interested in, review who is teaching what, what their specific area of study is, and then contact them. For example, if you’re interested in linguistics you would go to the linguistics department website and look under the faculty tab. Here you will find a bio for each professor that can help you choose one or two professors to talk to.
• If you send an email, start with “Dear Professor Smith,” then ask if you can meet to ask questions about pursuing a PhD in linguistics. Sign the email with a cordial closing like “sincerely" and your name.
• If you go to their office hours, show up when the hours begin, politely knock on the door (even if it’s already open), and introduce yourself. You can say something like, “Hello Professor Smith, I am John Public and I’m interested in getting a PhD in linguistics. I’d like to ask you a few questions about the process. Is this a good time for you?”
• Don’t try to talk at length with the professor after class. They likely have another class or something already scheduled. What you can do, however, is inquire about setting a meeting, and then follow up with an email about the details.

• A good way to meet a current grad student is to contact a professor and ask for a list of people who would be willing to meet up with you. Then you can email the student directly to ask if they would be free to meet up over lunch or a cup of coffee. During the meeting be sure to thank them for taking the time to meet with you. Most importantly, you need to come with a list of questions you have about grad school, and also be open to listen to any advice they have to give that isn’t on your question list.
• For example, you might ask “how much does grad school cost, and how do I pay for it?”, or inquire about what is required of them. You might also ask, “what are the best and worst things about grad school?” And also, “how do you handle the workload?”

• Make sure you also think about whether you want to get a PhD to work as an academic (i.e. a professor) or in the private sector. [2] X Research source Both paths can be rewarding, but the prep work can be wildly different. For example, an associate professor teaching psychology at a university will require a significant publication record, but going into private practice or working for the government requires much less.

Performing Well Academically

• Do you remember the semester you decided to take the extra class, suffered the loss of your childhood pet, or thought sleeping through geology was a good idea? The group of professors on the selection panel will understand one or two grade discrepancies on your transcript. After all, they were undergrads too. The panel will be less likely to overlook frequent or repeated bad grades and withdraws (classes marked by a W on your transcript), even if they are in non-major courses or general prerequisites.
• To work as hard as you can, do homework and study on a daily basis. When you don’t understand the material, go to your professor’s office hours with specific questions and examples of what you don’t get. Also, don’t be afraid to go to the tutoring center or hire a private tutor. This will provide detailed, first-hand help with the course material.

• General education classes are designed to provide a well-rounded, general education that gets you ready for more specific courses. These classes are required at the University level for all students to complete. For example, you’ll likely need to complete freshman level English classes, a few science courses, and perhaps writing classes.
• Major classes are more specific courses that the major or department requires. If you’re a language major, you’re likely required to take a general linguistics class, several survey courses in literature and culture, and depending on the state you go to school in, you’ll have to pass a language-specific written and oral test. These requirements are put in place to make sure that you will be ready to take graduate-level courses and perform well.
• Many universities also offer cross-listed classes, which are courses open to both graduate and undergraduate students. Take a few of these to get an idea of the work you’ll be doing. This is also a great way to meet grad students and make your introduction.

• There are several ways to prepare for the GRE or other important entrance exams. The most obvious but often overlooked is to work hard throughout your undergrad education. This means study early for each class and study often.
• Many people find it helpful to buy test preparation materials to study for the exam. For example, you can purchase GRE prep manuals from Kaplan, ETS, or The Princeton Review. You can usually find online or in-print materials available. Often the materials can be used in conjunction with a class that is meant to prepare you for the exam. These same companies also likely have courses available.
• If you’re looking to seal the deal, try hiring a tutor who is trained in test preparation. There are several national companies like Wyzant, Varsity Tutors, and Sylvan who have tutors trained in this area. It’s also likely that there are many local companies who offer the same services. Finally, check with your college or university’s student services center, as they may have several on-campus options.

• You need to ask the right person. Ask a full-time faculty member who is an assistant, associate, or full professor. Many times the person teaching your introduction course, the principles of economics class, or the first 4 or 5 semesters of most language courses is a graduate teaching assistant, and their letter will not carry as much weight as would that of a faculty member. Ask for letters of recommendation usually toward the end off your junior year, when you’re filling out the applications.
• Give the person at least three weeks to write the letter if possible. Professors usually have to teach, perform research, grade, serve on multiple committees, advise students, and go to department meetings, so providing sufficient time is best. However, if an important grant or new opening at a PhD program comes up and you’re in good standing with your psycholinguistics professor, go ahead and ask politely for a letter of recommendation. The worst thing they could say is no.

Gaining Experience

• Several options exist for learning a new language. One of them is to take classes in a language at the university you are already attending. You can also take courses at private language schools in your area, study with language learning software like Rosetta Stone or Fluenz, use a language learning app on your phone like Duolingo or Babbel, or hire a private language coach.
• Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to bolster your skills with practice. You can practice your language skills by watching movies, listening to music, joining a local club or society, and hiring a conversation partner.

• You can get research experience by applying for part-time positions in a laboratory, department, or a related job outside the university. For example, if you want to study cognitive development, you can apply to work in a psychology lab, a medical center that specializes in cognitive disorders, or even volunteer in the psychology department.
• Other opportunities include paid or unpaid internships, which can be found in a variety of places. For example, legal offices, court houses, large medical centers, museums, and many more places usually have many openings. Be careful though, these positions may fill fast, so be on the look out.

• There are a lot of ways to improve organizational skills. For example, focus on a few skills at a time, like improving time management. [5] X Research source You can also work on learning to set priorities, doing what’s more important first and saving less crucial tasks for later. [6] X Research source

Expert Q&A

• Hold out for a top choice, instead of settling for a program that doesn't meet your needs. If you don't get in one year, wait and try again. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You don't have to carry straight on from your undergraduate degree to postgraduate studies. Consider other alternatives, like take a year out to travel or spend some time in the work force. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Graduate school can be all about research. Once you've met the GPA requirements for your school, research credentials carry extra weight. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• It takes a lot of mental strength to cope up with the demands of graduate school, like the grueling pace, taking large amounts of well-intended criticism, or meeting pushy people. For that reason, every college and university has a student services center that provides counseling services, usually free for students, or already covered under most health insurances. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Getting a PhD is a huge time commitment. Make sure you’re committed and passionate. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• Make sure you are certain a PhD is for you. It may sound like fun and being able to put Dr in front of your name may sound great, but this time-consuming process may be too expensive. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.academics.com/prepare-for-a-phd
• ↑ http://blogs.plos.org/thestudentblog/2014/04/22/faqs-about-non-academic-jobs-jane-hu/
• ↑ http://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/The-Advantages-of-Being-Bilingual/
• ↑ https://www.postgrad.com/advice/phd/how_to_prepare/top-tips/
• ↑ http://www.briantracy.com/blog/time-management/mastering-time-management-and-organizational-skills-to-increase-productivity/
• ↑ http://www.mtdtraining.com/blog/how-to-improve-organisational-skills-to-reduce-stress.htm

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• Masters vs PhD – Differences Explained
• Types of Doctorates

The decision of whether or not to pursue a Masters or PhD (or both) after you complete your undergraduate studies is not necessarily a straightforward one. Both are postgraduate degrees but are different in terms of the academic experience and the career paths taken afterwards.

In short, a Masters degree involves a year of study, primarily through taught lectures and a final dissertation research project, whilst a PhD (also referred to as a doctorate degree) is a three-year commitment of independent research on a specific subject.

There’s more to it than that, however – read on for more information.

What Is a Masters Degree?

A Masters degree is the next level of education after the completion of an undergraduate degree, commonly known as a Bachelors.

These degree levels are often referred to in terms of cycles so that a Bachelor’s is a first-cycle degree, a Masters is a second-cycle and finally, a PhD is the third-cycle of higher education (and the highest).

Masters degrees demand an intense period of study, usually centred around a core series of lectures and taught modules, coupled with coursework assignments and exams, followed by the completion of a contained research project usually taking students 3-4 months to complete.

These types of degrees are attractive to recent graduates who want to delve deeper into their specific field of study, gaining some research experience and more specialised knowledge beyond what an undergraduate degree can offer.

Equally, some pursue a Masters degree program in a subject that is only tangentially related to their Bachelors degree, helping them gain a broader depth of knowledge.

These degrees also serve as a significant stepping stone for those already in employment who want to progress their current career development and earn a higher salary. They can also be an excellent method for helping in changing careers completely by learning new skills and subject knowledge.

What Is a PhD Degree?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest academic degree that can be awarded and is the third and final cycle in the progression of higher education.

A doctoral degree is earned on the basis of producing a significant, independent and novel body of work (a Thesis) that contributes new knowledge to a particular research topic.

These are research degrees that are a significant investment of a candidate’s time, resources and energy and are all but a pre-requisite for anyone considering a career in academia, such as eventually becoming a professor.

There are some exceptions to this, such as those with a medical background who may earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine), which is the equivalent of a PhD.

Doctoral degrees can also have a significant positive impact on career development outside of academia, especially in fields such as engineering, business and finance that have a high demand for highly qualified and capable people.

A graduate student engaged in PhD study is commonly known as a PhD student, PhD candidate or doctoral student.

What are the Benefits of a Masters Degree?

There are several reasons one might consider doing a Masters degree rather than a PhD in their graduate education. These include:

• It takes approximately a third of the time to do compared to a doctorate degree and costs less too.
• It’s a good way to differentiate yourself from those that hold only an undergraduate degree without having to commit to a substantial research degree.
• The end goal is more career-focused as opposed to research-focused. For example, it is practically an ‘easier’ route to changing or progressing your career if that aligns with your professional goals.

What are the Benefits of Doing a PhD?

You may continue on into a doctoral program after a Masters or you may even dive straight in after completing your undergraduate studies. So, what are the advantages of completing this third-cycle?

• You’ll have developed a wealth of transferable skills at graduate school, such as effective communication of complex concepts, multi-tasking time-management and the ability to adapt to and solve unexpected problems.
• A doctorate helps to establish you as an expert within your chosen subject area; your work will hopefully have furthered the knowledge in this.
• It will open up career paths and teaching positions within academia that may otherwise be very difficult to get a hold in (although these career paths will still be very competitive).
• You can add the title ‘Dr’ in front of your name!

Which Degree Is More Impactful: A Masters or a PhD?

On paper, the answer should be clear: A doctorate degree is the highest degree you can earn, so has more impact than a Masters, which in turn has more impact than a Bachelors.

The reality is that the size of the impact (if any) really depends on the subject area and the career path you choose (if the measure of impact is how it positively improves your career prospects, that is).

For someone with aspirations of becoming a professor, a PhD will be of greater value than a Masters alone.

Equally, it’s also possible that someone with a PhD entering a different field or one that doesn’t require a PhD may find that their degree has no bearing on their career or in some cases may even be seen as a ‘negative’ with a concern of the person being ‘over-qualified’ for a position. There are many scenarios in which professional experience would be more valuable to an employer than a doctorate degree.

Check out the links below to our interviews with Prof. Debby Cotton and Dr Nikolay Nikolov to read their experiences of when a going through a PhD program has had a clear benefit (Prof. Cotton) and when it hasn’t been helpful (Dr Nikolov).

Do You Need to Have a Masters to do a PhD?

This really depends on the university, department and sometimes even the project and supervisor.

From a purely application process perspective, some institutions may formally require you to hold a Masters degree relevant to the subject of the PhD project before you can enter their doctoral program.

In another scenario, most universities are unlikely to accept candidates that were awarded below a 2:1 (in the UK) in their undergraduate degree but may consider someone who has ‘made up’ for this with a high-grade Masters.

Lastly, some universities now offer PhD programmes that incorporate an additional year of study in which you would complete a Masters degree before carrying directly on into a PhD project. As you’d expect, even if a university doesn’t formally require you to hold one, a Masters degree can help separate you from other applicants in being accepted on the project.

Check out our detailed guide to doing a PhD without a Master’s .

Why Do a Masters before Your PhD?

Even if you don’t need to have one, it could still be beneficial to begin your postgraduate study by doing a Masters first before you embark on your doctorate journey.

As mentioned previously it’ll help you stand out from applicants that don’t have one, but beyond that, it’ll give you a taster of what research life could be like, especially if you stay at the same university and department for your PhD.

The one-year commitment (in the UK at least) of carrying out a Masters first, and in particular your research project, will help you better understand if this is truly something you want to commit the next three or more years to.

You’ll learn some of the skills of independent research, from performing detailed literature searches to more complex, analytical writing.

At the end of it, you should be in a stronger position to consider your options and decide about whether to continue into a PhD at graduate school.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree?

In the UK, a full-time Masters degrees take students one calendar year to complete: The programme of study usually starts in September, the final research project the following April and final project viva around August. Part-time degrees are usually double the time.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD?

In the UK, most PhD projects take 3-4 years to complete , as reflected by the majority of funded projects offering stipends to cover living expenses of about 3.5 years.

For many reasons, projects may end up taking longer to complete, however. This might be because of difficulties in collecting enough data, or if the project is being done part-time.

Which One is More Expensive to Do?

As you’d expect, as a PhD takes three times as long to complete as a Masters degree, it will cost you more to do as far as university fees are concerned.

Another thing to consider is that many PhD projects come with some level of funding equivalent to a low salary, which may cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses, whilst it is usually more difficult to obtain funding for Masters study.

Conversely, a Masters graduate may progress into a higher (versus PhD funding) salary sooner whilst a PhD student will endure three years of a comparatively low income.

A Masters vs a PhD: Conclusion

If you’re considering continue further graduate study after your undergraduate degree, the question of doing a Masters vs a PhD is likely to come up. They are both considered an advanced degree, each with their own advantages.

There are benefits to doing either of these graduate programs or even both of them; your decision here can be easier if you have an idea of the career you want to follow or if you know you have a love for research!

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Largest graduating class in ASU history sets out to make a difference

Sun devils among world’s most employable grads.

From left: Spring 2024 graduates Dhwarakesh Vandavasi Balaji, Master of Science in mechanical engineering; Sabareesh Karthick Senthilkumar, Master of Science in mechanical engineering; and Natalia Calabrese, Bachelor of Arts in communication, celebrate their impending graduation in front of the 2024 sign in front of Old Main on the Tempe campus. Photo by Sabira Madady/ASU

Every commencement is notable for Melissa Goitia. As executive director in the Office of University Events and Protocol, she’s in charge of the army of people it takes to pull off graduation ceremonies at Arizona State University.

This year is extra special, however: Not only is it her 25th year of planning and executing commencement, but one of those in cap and gown will be her daughter, Alicia Werner, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Music in performance (voice).

“I get emotional at every commencement — it really is such a special, purely happy day for graduates and their families,” Goitia said. “My hope is that they’ll walk away having felt honored and recognized for all the hard work that got them here.

“But this year — yes, it’s extra special for me. Like so many parents, I’ve been waiting for this important moment. I’m so excited to see my daughter graduate, and to pass the milestone of 25 years coordinating commencement. I will be crying many happy tears that day. I already am, just thinking about it!”  

Werner is one of nearly 20,700 undergraduate and graduate students earning their degree this May — the largest graduating class in ASU history. Their degrees range from astrophysics to English to public service. Of that total, more than 6,900 are graduating with a master’s degree or PhD, a total that’s 17% higher than last spring.

Several colleges in particular are seeing big increases in students graduating. The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering has more than 4,800 students graduating, an increase of 16% over last spring, and the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation will celebrate about 800 graduates, up 18%. Both are helping to shore up key areas for Arizona, such as the workforce needs of the burgeoning semiconductor industry in the Phoenix area and the state’s urgent shortage of nurses .

Of the overall graduating class, more than 9,500 are Arizonans entering the workforce. And the university’s graduates are among the world’s most employable: A recent survey of international employers ranked ASU the No. 2 public and 13th overall university in the U.S., and No. 34 worldwide, for employable graduates . 

ASU’s spring graduating class includes nearly 14,000 campus immersion students and more than 6,700 who earned their degree online. In fact, it's a milestone year for ASU Online: This summer, the university’s 100,000th online graduate will earn their degree, and 2024 marks the 10th anniversary of the trailblazing Starbucks College Achievement Plan , in which Starbucks offers full upfront tuition coverage for ASU Online bachelor’s degrees for its partners, or employees.

During Undergraduate Commencement, Walter F. Parkes, co-founder and chairman of Dreamscape Learn, will be receiving an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. The degree will be officially bestowed during the ceremony the evening of Monday, May 6, at Mountain America Stadium on the Tempe campus. Graduate Commencement will take place earlier that day at Desert Financial Arena in Tempe.

The two commencements headline a week filled with ceremonies honoring students’ accomplishments. There are also 20 college-specific convocations and 10 special-interest ceremonies in metro Phoenix, including the Hispanic Convocation, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Over 4,100 graduates identifying as Hispanic/Latino will earn their degree this May. Forty years ago at the inaugural Hispanic Convocation, ASU graduated only 49.

In addition to the celebrations in the Phoenix area, ASU’s California Center Grand in downtown Los Angeles will host a Veterans Honor Stole Ceremony for the first time on May 10. 

It’s always important to mark the milestone of graduation, but Goitia pointed out that it’s particularly meaningful this spring as many of the undergraduate students who are completing degrees graduated from high school in May 2020. Because of the early days of the pandemic, many did not get a high school ceremony. ASU is ready to celebrate their achievements with a full slate of ceremonies. Find the schedule at graduation.asu.edu/ceremonies/schedule .

Meet some of those highly employable (and employed!) grads

After graduation, Raquel Lopez Anchia will begin her engineering career at Intel Corp. With Fab Construction Enterprise as the demolition project manager, she will help build Intel's new factory in Ocotillo. She said her time at ASU helped her become more confident and grow into who she is today.

“At ASU I was able to find what I love to do,” said Lopez Anchia, who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. “Holding leadership positions in student organizations and meeting so many new people, I found that leadership is not only something I enjoy, but it is also my passion.” 

Dominique Joseph, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in fashion, followed her passion to ASU. She said she has always loved putting outfits together and how fashion allows you to “express yourself nonverbally through clothing,” but she wanted to explore the industry beyond designing and styling — which is why she chose the fashion business management track offered at ASU FIDM.

Thanks to her education at ASU and an internship last summer, she is headed to a position as an assistant buyer at the Ross Stores Inc. corporate buying office in Los Angeles this fall.

“Honestly all the knowledge that I learned throughout the program — just being aware of what the fashion industry is doing, like reading articles all the time and having to analyze them in class, was really helpful to be able to speak to certain things throughout the internship and put everything together,” she said.

Another impressive graduate, Charmaine Chien-Yu Chui, will be the youngest in the history of the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at just 19 years old. After externships at the U.S. Attorney's Office in the District of Arizona, the Central District of California Bankruptcy Court, the Arizona Court of Appeals and the U.S. Department of Justice, she will take on a new role as a judicial law clerk at the Arizona Supreme Court after graduating with her Juris Doctor.

“When I was applying to law schools, I knew I wanted to attend a school where I could get to know my professors and would not be stuck in giant lecture halls as a student ID number,” she said. “The smaller class sizes at ASU Law meant that I always felt welcome talking to my professors. … I'm so glad to have been able to enjoy the community of a ‘smaller’ school while still having access to the courses and externship opportunities that allowed me to pursue a public service career.”

Get ready to attend the ceremonies

More than 42,000 guests are expected for the two main commencement ceremonies, Goitia said. Graduates and loved ones alike should allow plenty of time to park and enter the venues to find seating. Students should arrive one hour before the ceremonies begin.

Find out where to enter and exit the different venues, along with information about parking, what not to bring, food and beverage options and more, at graduation.asu.edu/know-before-you-go . 

ASU has a clear bag policy at venues. Attendees can also carry in clear, factory-sealed bottles of still water (1.5 liters or smaller); empty water bottles to use at water stations; sealed, single-use juice boxes; and baby formula or baby food. 

In the unlikely event of rain, there is an inclement weather plan for ceremonies at Mountain America Stadium, which includes Undergraduate Commencement. 

Honorary degree recipient 

Walter F. Parkes of Dreamscape Learn will receive a Doctor of Humane Letters (Honoris Causa), an honorary degree given in recognition to those who have made significant contributions to society through humanitarian and philanthropic work, during the May 6 Undergraduate Commencement.

As a screenwriter, producer and former studio head, Parkes has been responsible for some of the most iconic motion pictures in film history — movies that span popular genres while demonstrating a commitment to artistic and intellectual integrity. Following a four-decade career punctuated by critical acclaim and commercial success, Parkes turned his attention to education and is the co-founder and executive chairman of Dreamscape Learn, an education technology company that combines advanced pedagogy, virtual reality technologies and the power of emotional cinematic narrative to meaningfully improve learning outcomes.  

Films produced or executive produced by Parkes with longtime partner Laurie Macdonald have garnered numerous awards and grossed more than $6 billion worldwide, including “Gladiator,” “Minority Report,” the “Men in Black” series, “Flight,” “Catch Me If You Can,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Amistad,” “He Named Me Malala,” “Free Solo” and others. As a screenwriter, Parkes is widely acknowledged as a pioneer, along with writing partner Lawrence Lasker, in the development of the "tech-thriller" genre beginning with “WarGames,” an Oscar nominee for best original screenplay, and “Sneakers,” starring Robert Redford. 

As the founding co-heads of DreamWorks Studios, Parkes and MacDonald were responsible for the development and production of the studio’s diverse slate of films that included, for only the second time in Motion Picture Academy history, three consecutive best picture Oscar winners: “American Beauty,” “Gladiator” and “A Beautiful Mind.”

Beyond serving as executive chairman, Parkes is also creative director of Dreamscape Learn and is responsible for overseeing the creation of its educational content. His experience in education includes serving on the Yale University Council for 10 years, and as the council’s president for four years. He is a director for Para Los Niños, a service organization that operates three charter schools in downtown Los Angeles. 

Additional resources

• Loved ones can’t make it? They are welcome to watch the livestream. Find links on the ceremony schedule page and additional live broadcast details at https://graduation.asu.edu/ceremonies/futuredates . 
• Find backgrounds, social media filters and more on the virtual graduation toolkit page .
• Learn how how to dress for graduation .
• Find out the history and the meaning behind the regalia of ASU's commencement.

More Sun Devil community

ASU Law’s youngest-ever graduate goes above and beyond

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2024 graduates. At just 19 years old, Charmaine Chien-Yu Chui will become the youngest graduate in the history of the…

Outstanding Alumni Association Graduate finds her passion in leadership positions at ASU

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2024 graduates. Raquel Lopez Anchia, who will be graduating with a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the…

ASU social work graduate committed to working with children, youth and families

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2024 graduates. Morgan Cywinski knows how important play can be to the well-being of hospitalized children, so, as a…

• MyU : For Students, Faculty, and Staff

BME students receive NSF Graduate Research Fellowships

April 22, 2024 — Congratulations to our 2024 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship recipients:

• Bri Brennecke — PhD student in Paolo Provenzano and David Wood’s labs
• Hannah Szafraniec — PhD student in Dave Wood’s lab

In addition, two BME students were recognized with an honorable mention:

• Kira Lynch  — Undergraduate student
• Paige Nielsen — PhD student in Kyoko Yoshida’s lab

The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited U.S. institutions. Fellowships provide the student with a three-year annual stipend of $37,000 along with a $16,000 cost of education allowance for tuition and fees (paid to the institution), as well as access to opportunities for professional development available to NSF-supported graduate students.  

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Refugee Resettlement in Upstate New York

Join us for a panel discussion on the current state of refugee resettlement in Upstate New York, with representatives from resettlement centers in Syracuse, NY - including, Refugee and Immigrant Self-Empowerment (RISE) and Interfaith Works, as well as in Utica, NY - The Center. These three organizations have been collaborating with Dr. Julie Ficarra's  Refugee Pathways: from Conflict to Resettlement course, funded through the Mellon Foundation Just Furtures Initiative. Practitioners will share both the challenges and opportunities of resettling refugees in our region, and what the future may hold for resettlement policies and practices.

These community partners will be available for informal meetings between 11:30am - 12:30pm and 1:30pm - 2:30pm. Please contact Dr. Julie Ficarra ([email protected]) if you'd like to set up a time to connect with them outside of the 12:30pm - 1:30pm panel discussion.