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• Master’s vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Master's vs PhD | A Complete Guide to the Differences

Published on November 27, 2020 by Lauren Thomas . Revised on June 1, 2023.

The two most common types of graduate degrees are master’s and doctoral degrees:

• A master’s is a 1–2 year degree that can prepare you for a multitude of careers.
• A PhD, or doctoral degree, takes 3–7 years to complete (depending on the country) and prepares you for a career in academic research.

A master’s is also the necessary first step to a PhD. In the US, the master’s is built into PhD programs, while in most other countries, a separate master’s degree is required before applying for PhDs.

Master’s are far more common than PhDs. In the US, 24 million people have master’s or professional degrees, whereas only 4.5 million have doctorates.

Table of contents

Master’s vs phd at a glance, which is right for you, length of time required, career prospects, costs and salaries, application process, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about master's and phd degrees.

The table below shows the key differences between the two.

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A PhD is right for you if:

• Your goal is to become a professor at a university or some other type of professional researcher.
• You love research and are passionate about discovering the answer to a particular question.
• You are willing to spend years pursuing your research even if you have to put up with a lot of dead ends and roadblocks.

A master’s degree is the better choice if any of the following apply:

• You want to continue studies in your field, but you’re not committed to a career as a professional researcher.
• You want to develop professional skills for a specific career.
• You are willing to pay a higher upfront cost if it means finishing with your degree (and thus being able to work) much faster.
• You want the option to study part-time while working.

The length of time required to complete a PhD or master’s degree varies. Unsurprisingly, PhDs take much longer, usually between 3–7 years. Master’s degrees are usually only 1–2 years.

Length of a master’s

Master’s degrees are usually 2 years, although 1-year master’s degrees also exist, mainly in the UK.

Most of the degree consists of classes and coursework, although many master’s programs include an intensive, semester-long master’s thesis or capstone project in which students bring together all they’ve learned to produce an original piece of work.

Length of a PhD

In the US, a PhD usually takes between 5 and 7 years to complete. The first 2 years are spent on coursework. Students, even those who choose to leave without finishing the program, usually receive a master’s degree at this point.

The next 3–5 years are spent preparing a dissertation —a lengthy piece of writing based on independent research, which aims to make a significant original contribution to one’s field.

Master’s degrees tend to prepare you for a career outside of academia, while PhDs are designed to lead to a career in research.

Careers for master’s graduates

There are two types of master’s degrees: terminal and research-intensive. The career prospects are different for each.

Terminal master’s degrees are intended to prepare students for careers outside of academia. Some degrees, known as professional degrees, specifically prepare students for particular professions; these include the Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees.

Other master’s degrees, usually Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Sciences (MS or MSc) degrees, do not necessarily lead to a specific career, but are intended to be a final degree. Examples include an MS in Communications or MS in Data Analytics.

In research-intensive master’s programs, students take coursework intended to prepare them for writing an original piece of research known as the master’s thesis . Such programs are usually intended to prepare for further study in a doctoral program.

Careers for PhD graduates

As research degrees, PhDs are usually intended to lead to an academic career. A PhD can be thought of like an apprenticeship, where students learn from professional researchers (academics) how to produce their own research.

Most students aspire to become a university professor upon the completion of their degree. However, careers in academia are highly competitive, and the skills learned in a doctoral program often lend themselves well to other types of careers.

Some graduates who find they prefer teaching to producing research go on to be teachers at liberal arts colleges or even secondary schools. Others work in research-intensive careers in the government, private sector, or at think tanks.

Below are a few examples of specific fields and non-academic careers that are common destinations of graduates of those fields.

• Computer Science
• Lab Sciences

Many government jobs, including economists at a country’s central bank, are research-intensive and require a PhD. Think tanks also hire economists to carry out independent research.

In the private sector, economic consulting and technology firms frequently hire PhDs to solve real-world problems that require complex mathematical modeling.

Graduate students from the humanities are sometimes hired by museums, who can make use of their research and writing skills to curate exhibits and run public outreach.

Humanities PhDs are often well-suited to research and grant-writing roles at nonprofits. Since so much of research is funded by grants, PhD students often gain a lot of experience applying for them, which is a useful skill in the nonprofit sector.

There are a wide range of non-academic research jobs for lab scientists with doctorates in subjects like chemistry, biology, ecology and physics.

Many PhD graduates are hired by pharmaceutical companies that need to perform research to create and test their products. Government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), also hire lab scientists to work on research projects.

Job prospects after graduation vary widely based on the field. In fields like management, computer science, statistics, and economics, there’s little underemployment—even graduates from less well-known programs can easily find jobs that pay well and use the skills they’ve gained from the PhD.

However, in other fields, particularly in the humanities, many PhD graduates have difficulty in the job market. Unfortunately, there are far more PhD graduates than assistant professor roles, so many instead take on part-time and low-paid roles as adjunct instructors. Even non-academic careers can sometimes be difficult for PhDs to move into, as they may be seen as “overqualified”  or as lacking in relevant professional experience.

Because career options post-PhD vary so much, you should take the time to figure out what the career prospects are in your field. Doctoral programs often have detailed “placement” records online in which they list the career outcomes of their graduates immediately upon leaving the program. If you can’t find these records, contact the program and ask for them—placement information should play an important role in your choice of PhD program.

Although PhDs take far longer to complete, students often receive a living stipend in exchange for being a teaching or research assistant. Master’s degrees are shorter but less likely to be funded.

Both master’s degrees and PhDs lead to increased salaries upon graduation. While PhDs usually earn a bit more than those with a master’s degree, in some fields, the wages are identical, meaning that no financial benefit is gained from going on to a PhD.

Cost of a master’s

The upfront cost of a master’s degree is usually higher than a doctoral degree due to the lower amount of financial aid available. However, increased salaries also arrive faster than with a doctoral degree, because people graduate much earlier from a master’s program.

Some master’s students do receive stipends for their degrees, usually as compensation for being a teaching or research assistant. In addition, many people complete master’s degrees part time while working full-time, which allows them to fund their living costs as well as tuition.

The cost varies significantly by school and program. Public schools are usually cheaper than private ones. Some master’s degrees, such as MBAs, are notoriously expensive, but also result in much higher wages afterwards that make up for the high cost.

The master’s wage premium , or the extra amount that someone with a master’s degree makes than someone with just a high school diploma, is 23% on average. Many universities provide detailed statistics on the career and salary outcomes of their students. If they do not have this online, you should feel free to contact an administrator of the program and ask.

Cost of a PhD

PhDs, particularly outside the humanities, are usually (though not always) funded, meaning that tuition fees are fully waived and students receive a small living stipend. During the last 3–5 years of a PhD, after finishing their coursework (and sometimes before), students are usually expected to work as graduate instructors or research assistants in exchange for the stipend.

Sometimes students can apply for a fellowship (such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Program in the United States) that relieves them of any obligations to be a teaching or research assistant. Doctoral programs in the US tend to be better funded than in the rest of the world.

Sometimes, PhD degrees can be completed part-time, but this is rare. Students are usually expected to devote at least 40 hours a week to their research and work as teaching or research assistants.

The main cost of doctoral programs comes in the form of opportunity cost—all the years that students could be working a regular, full-time job, which usually pays much better than a graduate school stipend.

The average wage premium for PhDs is 26%, which is not much higher than the master’s degree premium.

In the US, the application process is similar for master’s and PhD programs. Both will generally ask for:

• At least one application essay, often called a personal statement or statement of purpose .
• Letters of recommendation .
• A resume or CV .
• Transcripts.
• Writing samples.

Applications for both types of programs also often require a standardized test. PhDs usually require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which tries to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative, critical thinking , and analytical writing skills. Many master’s programs require this test as well.

Applying for a master’s

Master’s degrees programs will often ask you to respond to specific essay prompts that may ask you to reflect upon not just your academic background, but also your personal character and future career ambitions.

Northwestern University’s Kellogg Business School requires Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) applicants write two essays, one about a recent time they demonstrated leadership and the second about their personal values.

Who you should ask for your letters of recommendation varies by program. If you are applying to a research-intensive master’s program, then you should choose former professors or research supervisors. For other programs, particularly business school, current work supervisors may be a better choice.

Some professional master’s programs require a specific test. For example, to apply to law school, you must take the Law School Admissions Test, or LSAT. For business school, you must take either the GRE or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).

Applying for a PhD

When applying for a PhD, your resume should focus more on your research background—you should especially emphasize any publications you’ve authored or presentations that you’ve given.

Similarly, your statement of purpose should discuss research that you’ve participated in, whether as an assistant or the lead author. You should detail what exactly you did in projects you’ve contributed to, whether that’s conducting a literature review, coding regressions, or writing an entire article.

Your letters of recommendations should be from former professors or supervisors who can speak to your abilities and potential as a researcher. A good rule of thumb is to avoid asking for recommendations from anyone who does not themselves have a PhD.

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A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

This depends on the country. In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD  with only a bachelor’s degree, as a master’s program is included as part of the doctoral program.

Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master’s degree before continuing to the PhD.

This varies by country. In the United States, PhDs usually take between 5–7 years: 2 years of coursework followed by 3–5 years of independent research work to produce a dissertation.

In the rest of the world, students normally have a master’s degree before beginning the PhD, so they proceed directly to the research stage and complete a PhD in 3–5 years.

A master’s degree usually has a higher upfront cost, but it also allows you to start earning a higher salary more quickly. The exact cost depends on the country and the school: private universities usually cost more than public ones, and European degrees usually cost less than North American ones. There are limited possibilities for financial aid.

PhDs often waive tuition fees and offer a living stipend in exchange for a teaching or research assistantship. However, they take many years to complete, during which time you earn very little.

In the US, the graduate school application process is similar whether you’re applying for a master’s or a PhD . Both require letters of recommendation , a statement of purpose or personal statement , a resume or CV , and transcripts. Programs in the US and Canada usually also require a certain type of standardized test—often the GRE.

Outside the US, PhD programs usually also require applicants to write a research proposal , because students are expected to begin dissertation research in the first year of their PhD.

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Master’s vs PhD — These are the Main Differences

The consideration between earning a master’s vs PhD is not always an easy choice. While many careers and personal aspirations may be complete with just an undergraduate degree (Associate’s or Bachelor’s), a lot of people continue their higher education to obtain graduate degrees. These include a master’s and/or a PhD.

Neither a master’s degree nor a PhD is considered to be a walk in the park. Therefore, it’s useful to understand why you would earn either and then decide how far to go.

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Definitions: master’s vs phd.

Bost a master’s and PhD are defined as postgraduate degrees, but they require different commitments and styles of learning.

1. Master’s Degree:

Mostly all master’s degrees will require the completion of an undergraduate bachelor’s degree to enroll. They generally all share the same common requirement for a thesis or dissertation to graduate.

Earning a master’s degree through a taught program will result in the completion of a Master of Art (MA), Master of Science (MS), or Master of Philosophy (MPhil). For those who earn their master’s degree through research, they will earn a Master of Research (Mre), in a tailored field of study. There are also degree-specific master’s programs like Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Education (M.Ed).

After earning a master’s degree, the next step is a PhD, which entails both working and performing research at an institution. A PhD is an abbreviation for “Doctor of Philosophy.” It is the highest academic degree one can achieve. As such, it is a time-consuming pursuit that requires a lot of studying and research.

You may be wondering, “Do you need a master’s to get a PhD?”

Technically, the answer is not always. Some students skip a master’s and go straight for their PhD, but they may lack research experience. While it could save money, the transition between a bachelor’s and a PhD is incredibly sharp. It may be harder to complete a PhD without the experience from a master’s.

Yet, some institutions may allow for the possibility to earn both your master’s and PhD in conjunction with one another. This will alleviate the transition between skipping a master’s and going straight to earning a PhD.

Should You Get a Master’s or PhD?

There are many considerations to factor when deciding between a master’s of PhD. For starters, it’s useful to consider the amount of time it will take, the cost, and the benefits and disadvantages of each. It is also of utmost importance to explore your own personal goals and reasons for wanting a graduate degree.

If your desired career of choice requires a PhD, like becoming a university professor, then you have your answer. If you want to start a business and benefit by networking while in school, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) could be a good idea. Consider what you want to pursue as a career and find out the requirements first.

Another useful thing to note is that a master’s degree can be used for a shift in careers. For example, if you attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities, but now you want to pursue science, you can still earn your master’s degree in a scientific discipline. On the other hand, a PhD is tailored to your field of study and specialty, so it will require that you are sure of your direction when you first earn your master’s degree.

Length of Time

A typical master’s degree program takes about two years full-time. However, there are accelerated programs that can be completed in just a year or so.

A PhD, in general, requires five to six years of studying, teaching, and research. However, it may even take some students up to eight or nine years to graduate. With this significant investment in time, it’s necessary to know if a PhD is right for you before starting.

The cost of both programs varies by institution and enrollment status of part-time versus full-time. However, since a PhD takes longer to complete, it will end up costing more. With that said, if you look into your return on investment, a PhD could end up yielding a higher salary, and therefore end up “costing less.”

Additionally, there is also the possibility of being paid to complete your PhD. Some students may receive an academic stipend, a university fellowship or apprenticeship or a reduced fee to earn their PhD while completing research (or teaching) at an institution. It’s also possible to get financial aid through a scholarship or grant.

As tuition rates continue to rise, it’s useful to look into alternative institutions for affordable education. For example, the University of the People offers a tuition-free master’s program in Business Administration and Education. This means you can study 100% online and graduate for less than the cost of most programs.

Weighing the Benefits

When comparing the two degree types, here are some benefits of each:

• Career-oriented
• Can open the door for more job opportunities
• Costs less than a PhD
• Takes less time than a PhD
• Helps you stand out from those with only an undergraduate degree
• You can perform research in your field of choice
• You become an expert in your field
• The prefix Dr. is added to your name
• You can teach in academia at the highest level

Required Commitment and Reasons to Pursue

Both a master’s and a PhD require a huge amount of hard work and utter commitment. You must be dedicated and motivated to complete either degree. Since most careers only may require a bachelor’s degree, having a master’s or PhD will set you apart from the competition. However, this should not be the sole reason to pursue either.

You may be wondering why would you earn either degree. Here’s a look at some motivational factors:

Reasons to Study for a Master’s

• Your career requires it (see next section)
• You want to advance your subject knowledge
• You want to experience graduate school and network with peers

Reasons to Study for a PhD

• You want to contribute new research to your field of choice
• Your career requires a PhD
• You want to earn the title of Dr.

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Required degrees by career.

Most people are motivated to pursue higher education because their desired careers require they do so. Here, we will break down those fields that require the completion of a master’s degree as it’s high on the list of reasons why to get one.

• Education Administration: To work as an administrator in an educational institution, you need to hold an advanced degree. A Master’s in Education (M.Ed) will provide you with the necessary knowledge and required skills to succeed in the field.
• Executive Level Business: A Master’s in Business (MBA) will not only place you ahead of the competition to land high-level positions in the field of business, but it can also be the jumping off point for becoming your own boss.
• Environmental Science: With issues in climate change and technological advancement, careers in Environmental Science are growing. As with most scientific careers, it requires a master’s degree where you will learn Applied Ecology, Environmental Policy, Environmental Chemistry, and more.
• Mental Health: To become a licensed practitioner and assist in mental health counseling, you will continue your education through a master’s degree in the field.
• Physical Therapy: Employers of physical therapists often prefer them to obtain a master’s degree in the discipline as the field is highly specialized.

Of course, some careers require a PhD. These careers are easy to spot because they have the prefix Dr. in front of them or the suffix like J.D. (Juris Doctor). To become a lawyer, doctor of medicine, veterinary medicine or psychologist/psychiatrist, you must obtain a PhD in the respective field.

Salary Differences Between Master’s and Ph.D. Graduates

According to a study performed by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce , the overall evidence shows that the higher the degree you have, the higher your salary potential. However, the differences vary by subject level and field.

In general, the expected lifetime earnings of those with each degree level is as follows:

• High School Diploma: $973,000
• Bachelor’s Degree: $1.3 million
• Master’s Degree: $2.7 million
• Doctorate Degree: $3.3 million

The Bottom Line

Aside from the financial cost and length of time, the opportunity to earn a master’s and a doctorate degree can offer several benefits.

However, it is an undertaking that requires a lot of dedication and motivation on behalf of the student. As such, it’s important to perform research on your desired career’s requirements, as well as your personal interest in pursuing either a Phd vs master’s.

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What is a phd.

A PhD is the highest postgraduate qualification level that can be awarded in academic study. This is usually completed over three to four years of full-time study, and involves research into an original contribution in your chosen field. 

PhD is an acronym that stands for Doctor of Philosophy. The name for PhD comes from the Latin term “Philosophiae Doctor”, which roughly translates to “Lover of wisdom”.

Whether you’re finishing up from an undergraduate degree, on a masters course or even just looking to get back into education, you’ll have seen people talking about getting a PhD .

Most people know vaguely what a PhD is – it’s a university course that means you can call yourself ‘Doctor’ without having to do medicine, right? Whilst that is surprisingly close to the truth, we’re here to answer the oft-asked question of ‘what is a PhD?’.

This guide covers everything you need to know about a PhD.

What does a PhD involve?

A PhD will typically take three years to complete. If taken part time, then it will be separated into three different stages:

Year 1: This will involve you speaking with your advisor about your research ideas, finishing your research proposal and beginning to put deadlines in place for your research. You’ll also complete your literature review in this stage. During this, you’ll review the existing research done on the topic that you’re planning to research to help you determine the gaps in the research that you can target

Year 2: During this stage, you’ll begin to conduct your research to gather data. You’ll document this whole process for your thesis and begin to attend conferences where you will have the opportunity to present your current research to other professionals and researchers in the field. You can take this further and take steps to educate the public on the benefits of your research.

Year 3: The final stage of a PhD involves using the data you’ve collected and the documentation of your research to write your thesis. You may still be conducting research at this point, and that’s OK. Once you’ve finished your thesis, you’ll justify your research and decisions in a viva .

How long is a PhD?

A typical PhD will take three to four years to complete when studying full time. Studying part time can take up to six years. The good news is that the thesis can be extended by up to four years. This means that if you haven’t gotten anywhere near finishing your research by the end of the second year, you can apply to extend your thesis and continue your research for up to four more years. Many PhD students will complete their thesis in the 4th year.

How is a PhD different from other degrees?

To start with, describing a PhD as a university course can be a bit misleading. Whilst it is a course offered by a university, it’s incredibly different to most courses. Unlike the undergraduate level, you won’t be covering your subject broadly you’ll be focused on one very particular area. Whilst a masters degree, especially a research one, may be focused, it won’t be nearly as focused as a PhD.

That said – don’t expect this focused level of research to necessarily be groundbreaking! Though part of doing a PhD is the intent to produce original research, it’s also primarily there to train your research skills and to prove yourself as a capable researcher.

A PhD is research focused

One of the main differences between PhDs and other types of postgraduate degree is that PhDs are heavily research based. PhDs involve a lot of independent research time, where you'll study your topic in detail using academic resources – such as the university's online library and online materials. This format is different to taught postgraduate degrees, which involve a lot more taught aspects such as lectures and seminars.

Do you need a masters to study a PhD?

In order to study a PhD, you’ll need to have a masters degree and a bachelors degree with a 2:1 or higher. Though self-funded students and students with professional experience in the field may be admitted with lower grades

Some students may begin with a MPhil (Masters of philosophy) or a Mres ( Master of research) and upgrade to a PhD by the end of their studies.

Where can I study a PhD?

Most universities offer PhD programs across a variety of disciplines. It is possible to study a PhD at almost any university and in almost any subject. Since a PhD is an independent research-based program, there is a lot of flexibility in regard to what you’ll study. 

PhD students often choose their own study topics and carry out independent research into that topic. This makes it possible to study your intended PhD at almost any university. 

Although, it is important to check which specific subject areas the university specialises in. For instance, if a university specialises in linguistics, then it would be a good idea to complete a linguistics PhD at that university as opposed to one that specialises in another subject.

It can be difficult to find the perfect course at the right university. That’s why we’ve put together advice on how to find a PhD .

It’s important to remember that a PhD is different from a typical university course. Rather than going to lectures, you’ll be conducting independent research, and so the application process will be quite different. Learn how to apply for a PhD  with our expert guide.

A PhD means attending ‘optional’ lectures and conferences

PhDs do involve some aspects of taught study, including lectures and conferences, although these are often optional and take place less often than on lower level courses.

Now of course, the university doesn’t just accept you, your project and tell you to have fun. You’ll work with a supervisor, and there will be conferences, lectures, and other such things that you can attend. Unlike lower level courses, however, although you won’t necessarily be examined on these things that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go! Conferences are a great way to meet people, get your name out and network . For any career, but especially one in academia, networking is well worth it.

A PhD is a high standard qualification

But what does having a PhD show, other than the fact you spent three to four years working on research and can now call yourself Dr [Your surname here]? 

A PhD is a globally recognised, high standard qualification. This means that if you choose to move elsewhere in the world, your PhD will be recognised as a credible postgraduate qualification.

In addition, a PhD can open up a whole world of new job opportunities! This includes academic roles , such as postdoctoral research posts, or even possibly fellowships. 

Regardless of which career path you choose to take, a PhD is regarded as the highest level postgraduate qualification – reflecting your impressive work ethic, knowledge, and workplace skills.

How to get a PhD

Getting a PhD is not easy by any means. But, if it’s something you truly want to do, it’s well worth it. So let’s take a look at just how to get a PhD!

Choose your research area

Before getting started with your PhD, you want to make sure you know what area you’d like to do it in. Don’t just pick something on a whim – this is something you’re going to be studying for the next four years of your life, and something that, once you finished your PhD, you’ll have your name attached to. So, for arts and humanities students, find an area of your subject that fascinates you enough that you’ll want to spend the next few years writing about it. For scientists, find an area you’d be happy to be working on in a team, and wouldn’t mind moving into as a career!

Find a good supervisor

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to start looking for a supervisor . Depending on what you’re currently doing, asking tutors for contacts or recommendations can be well worthwhile, but if you can’t do this, check out what research your potential supervisor has done. 

In addition, try and arrange an in-person meeting – or at least, a phone conversation. Email can make communication difficult and given this is the person you’ll be working under for the foreseeable future, you want to ensure you get on.

Then, assuming you’re accepted and have appropriate funding, you’ll be considered a probationary PhD student . At the end of your first year, you’ll be expected to prove you’re capable of the full course, so you’ll be tested in the form of writing a report. Once you pass this, you’re good to go!

Your next few years will be spent attending conferences, working on the research and your thesis. Your thesis will talk about what you’ve spent your time doing, how you dealt with any difficulties that arose, and generally show what your contribution to your subject is! Once that’s out the way, you get the fun job of having a viva – that is, talking about your thesis to a bunch of academics.

Pass the viva? Then you’ve succeeded.

So that’s how to get a PhD!

UK Research Councils

There are a selection of UK Research Councils, each of whom are part of the  UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) organisation. Collectively, these UK research councils provide an average of £380 million in PhD studentship funding every year – acting as the largest PhD funding body in the UK. 

Here’s an overview of UK research councils:

• Science and Technology Facilities Council
• Arts and Humanities Research Council  
• Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
• Economic and Social Research Council
• Medical Research Council
• Natural Environment Research Council  

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Should I Pursue A Master’s or A Ph.D.?

The first step in deciding on the right graduate program for you is to figure out which degree will best serve you—a master’s or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.). Here are a few factors to consider.

What are your career goals?

• Professional master’s: A good choice if you want to develop a particular skill set in order to practice a particular profession. This type of degree provides coursework focused on learning and practicing skills.
• Research master’s: A good fit if you want to gain expertise in a discipline and know how to teach it. A research master’s typically includes a research project or thesis and comprehensive exams in addition to coursework and provides experience in research and scholarship.
• Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy): Consider this option if your goal is to ground yourself in a body of research and develop the ability to add to that body of knowledge. Ph.D. study includes a major research project in addition to coursework, and a Ph.D. is the highest scholastic degree awarded by American universities. Contrary to common perception, career paths for Ph.D. graduates are quite varied, not just limited to academia. Ph.D. training helps you hones skills such as writing, research, teaching, data analysis, communicating complex topics—all of which can translate into many sectors, including industry, government, nonprofit, and entrepreneurship.

See career data for Duke graduate programs' alumni

How much time do you have to pursue a graduate degree?

Master’s degrees typically take two years to complete, while Ph.D. programs generally take five to seven years ( see Duke programs' time-to-degree ). That is a significant difference in commitment and opportunity costs. It might also play a key role in deciding which factors take higher priority as you evaluate a program. How does the length of the program fit with your career and family plans? How important is the surrounding community if you are going to be there for seven years instead of two? How long are you able or willing to go on a limited income while in graduate school?

How much can you afford to pay for a graduate degree?

Consider your personal financial situation (e.g., how much savings and student loans do you have), as well as how much financial aid you can get. Master’s and Ph.D. programs differ greatly in the amount of financial aid available. Ph.D. programs tend to offer significantly more financial support than master’s programs (but often will have research or teaching requirements). 

A typical Ph.D. financial aid package usually includes coverage of tuition and fees, a living stipend, and some level of support for health insurance for a set number of years. For instance, Duke’s standard Ph.D. package covers tuition, mandatory fees, and a stipend for five years, as well as health insurance premiums for six years. 

Within an institution, the level of financial support often differs across programs, so be sure to ask your specific program about the financial aid it offers. There are also many national organizations that provide competitive fellowships and scholarships for graduate students.

Know which degree you want to pursue? Here are some key things to look for in a program .

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• Postgraduate research
• What is a DTP?
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What is a PhD?

• Professional doctorate

PhD and MPhil degrees are different from taught degrees - such as Bachelors or Masters degrees - because the programme is an independent research project, rather than a programme of assessed coursework.

Making an original contribution

The essential requirement of a PhD is the creation of new knowledge. Being a researcher means developing new ideas and improving understanding through this creation of new knowledge. Your research will inevitably build on the work and ideas of others, but as a research student you are expected to make an original contribution to knowledge in your discipline.

Leading a research project

You will lead the research project, but you will also have support from a supervisory team who are there to provide guidance and read and comment on draft work - but the ultimate responsibility for planning and managing the research project will rest with you.

Writing a thesis

The research project is then written up as a thesis - usually 50,000-80,000 words depending on the discipline. Again, responsibility for writing and submitting the thesis rests with you, but your supervisory team provide guidance and read and comment on draft chapters to help ensure the thesis is of an appropriate standard.

Viva voce - defending your thesis

Finally, to be awarded a research degree you must defend your thesis in a 'viva voce' (spoken) examination. The viva voce examination is an intense and challenging experience, but we offer workshops and mock examinations to help you prepare and almost all research students who reach this stage go on to successfully complete their degree.

How long does a PhD take?

You will normally complete your active research - experimental work, field work, archival work, etc. - over a maximum period of 3-3.5 years. A fourth year or the remaining part of this can then be used to prepare the thesis for examination.

You would normally complete your active research - experimental work, field work, archival work, etc. - over a maximum period of 6-6.5 years. A seventh year or the remaining part of this can then be used to prepare the thesis for examination.

How long does an MPhil take?

MPhil students would normally complete their active research - experimental work, field work, archival work, etc. - over a maximum period of 1-1.5 years. A second year or the remaining part of this can then be used to prepare the thesis for examination.

MPhil students would normally complete their active research - experimental work, field work, archival work, etc. - over a maximum period of 3-3.5 years. A fourth year or the remaining part of this can then be used to prepare the thesis for examination.

In some cases it may be possible to complete a PhD or MPhil degree in less time, but this is unusual.

Structured training

UK PhD and MPhil degrees are distinctive in that they provide research students with a structured programme of training designed to help them develop their personal and professional capabilities. At Leicester, we are proud of our innovative and flexible approach to supporting the skills and career development of our research students.

Skill and career development

You'll benefit from a structured and tailored programme of skills and career development activities. In addition to the subject-specific research skills that are gained over the course of the research project, we offer workshops and training events that allow you to develop wider generic research skills and transferable skills such as leadership, team working, project management skills, and presentation skills - helping you to enhance your employability whatever your career plans.

Communicating your research

We also provide opportunities to help you develop your ability to share your research and develop your confidence in communicating research concepts and findings to different types of audiences. Schools and departments offer their own seminar and conference programmes in which you are encouraged to participate. Over the course the degree, you'll normally also attend academic conferences in the UK or abroad at which you present your research and have the opportunity both to network with other researchers in your subject and to raise your own profile.

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Guide to PhD degrees

06 th January 2023

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An PhD, short for the Latin philosiphiae doctor , is a research-intensive qualification and the highest level of academic degree that you can get. 

Read on to find out more about PhD degrees, what they could lead to, and decide whether they’re right for you. 

• What is an PhD degree and why study for one?
• What PhD courses are there?
• How long is an PhD degree and when do they start?
• What are the entry requirements for an PhD degree?
• How much does an PhD degree cost?
• What funding is there for PhD degrees?
• What jobs can you do with an PhD degree?
• Which PhD degrees are most in demand?
• When to apply for an PhD degree
• How is an PhD degree graded?

What is an PhD degree and why study for one? 

An PhD is a level 8 qualification in the UK, meaning it’s higher degree than other postgraduate qualifications like a master’s degree or PGCE, which are level 7 qualifications. Completing a PhD will allow you to use the prefix ‘doctor’ or ‘Dr.’ with your name. 

It’s the most common type of doctorate degree, differing from other doctorates like the Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Education (EdD) in its focus on research, rather than applied preparation for a certain career. 

Your PhD degree will train you to operate as an expert researcher or practitioner at a professional level, and usually involves completing a research project that significantly contributes to your field. 

During your PhD you might complete taught modules, such as seminars and tutorials, as well as delivering teaching yourself to undergraduate students in some cases. In most cases, you’ll be working towards the creation and publication of a thesis that summarises the outcomes of your research. 

PhD programmes are significantly longer than undergraduate or master’s degrees in most cases, lasting between three and six years. You’ll be working without direct peers or close academic support in most cases, reflective of your transition towards professional research work. 

A PhD is a very common way for students to prepare for a career in academia, or other research-intensive roles across government and industry. It will prove your ability to work at the forefront of your field and independently generate and complete a research project. 

What PhD courses are there? 

There are a number of different types of PhD course that you can choose from. The best kind of PhD for you will depend on your previous education and experience, the subject or topic you want to research, and the kind of career you wish to pursue afterwards. 

The PhD by Thesis is the most common type of PhD completed by students in the UK. This course normally takes three years, where you’ll research and write up a thesis based on your submitted proposal with support from a PhD supervisor. Your thesis could be anywhere from 60,000 to over 100,000 words in length, and will typically include an oral presentation or viva. 

During an Integrated PhD, sometimes called a New Route PhD, you’ll first complete an MRes degree over a year before moving onto the PhD element of the programme for three further years. These are offered at relatively few universities currently, but they are becoming more common. This PhD has more taught elements and is focused on building subject-specific skills, practical research experience and advanced theoretical knowledge. 

You might pursue a Professional Doctorate if you’re pursuing a particular career in fields like medicine, education, engineering or business administration. They typically have more of a focus on taught modules and professional skills, and may involve a minor research project. You’ll usually progress into a professional role rather than an academic post after completing one of these. Many people complete these part-time with support from their employer. 

A PhD by Publication is also possible, where you can be awarded a doctorate based on work you have previously published. This might be previous research publications as a graduate student or in research roles, or a book that you’ve written. This qualification is typical for academics who have progressed in their career but not been able to complete a PhD course. 

How long is an PhD degree and when do they start? 

A full-time PhD usually takes between three and four academic years in the UK, but they can last longer in some cases. Part-time courses normally take between six and seven years, depending on the study pattern that you choose and the progression of your research project. 

The most common starting time for PhD degrees is in the autumn, especially September and October. However, some programmes may also offer start dates at other points in the year, particularly if you are a self-funded student. 

What are the entry requirements for an PhD degree? 

To get onto an PhD degree you’ll usually need a master’s level degree, such as an MA or an MSc. You may also need to have achieved a 2:1 or higher in your undergraduate degree in some cases. You might get able to get onto a PhD programme with just a bachelor’s, but you’ll usually need a first-class degree and strong research skills. 

Getting onto a PhD with lower grades than this is possible, but usually requires significant professional experience in a related area. Pursuing an integrated master’s that starts with an MRes component, or just applying for an MRes degree, can also be a first step towards a PhD if you don’t have the required grades for direct entry onto a PhD. 

How much does an PhD degree cost? 

You’ll pay less in tuition fees per academic for your PhD than your bachelor’s or master’s degrees, in most cases. Average tuition fees for a PhD course in the UK typically range between £3,000 and £6,000 per year.  

This can still vary widely, however. For example, the PhD in Antarctic Studies at Cambridge University will cost £9,111 a year in tuition fees, while the PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of West London costs £3,995 per year for tuition. 

Fees can be significantly higher for non-EU PhD applicants. 

What funding is there for PhD degrees? 

Funding options for PhD courses includes additional options compared to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, but competition for funding sources can be intense. 

• UK government loans for doctorate studies have become available, offering up to £27,892 to students starting a course from 1st August 2022. It will be split evenly across your years of doctoral study. 
• PhD studentships are specific to this kind of study and are one of the more sought-after funding options. They are typically offered by Research Councils, but universities or other organisations like trusts and foundations may also support them. Tuition studentships might cover your fees only, while full studentships include stipends for maintenance and research costs. They may be attached to specific research projects or programmes that you can apply to, or you might apply for the studentship in parallel with the submission of your own research proposal. 
• A range of other scholarships and bursaries are available to apply for as a PhD student. These might be from your university, private organisations or other organisations. Eligibility criteria and award value will vary. 
• Part or full self-funding is also an option for doctoral study. 

Go to: Read the ULTIMATE Guide to Postgraduate Funding

What jobs can you do with an PhD degree? 

Getting a PhD qualification will allow you to access research-focused positions in academia, but an increasingly wide range of jobs suited to doctorate holders are appearing in industry or the public sector. 

Your PhD will be evidence of your professional research skills and commitment to your field, allowing you to access teaching and research roles in universities, industrial research positions in sectors like pharmaceuticals or engineering, as well as clinical or other medical roles. 

They are also increasingly valued in applications for technical or senior social science, natural science and physical science research roles, across the public sector or charitable organisations. 

If you’re looking to build a career in academia, focusing on areas like networking, publications and post-doctoral research opportunities will boost your career prospects. 

Which PhD degrees are in most demand? 

PhD degrees in engineering disciplines such as chemical engineering, electrical engineering and biomedical engineering are particularly valued in today’s job market, and industry partners offer a large amount of funding to PhD and post-doctorate students. 

Computer science and software engineering are also popular PhD level courses, with broad employment opportunities across the public and private sector available. 

PhDs in clinical or other medical disciplines, as well as in medical technology and pharmacology, are often linked to further research or employment opportunities with the NHS, health trusts or charities focusing on areas like cancer research, for example. 

When to apply for an PhD degree 

In most cases you’ll want to start the application process for a PhD as early as possible to give you time to develop a strong thesis application or m ake other applications if you’re unsuccessful, maximising your chances of success. You’ll normally want to get in touch with prospective supervisors at first, to discuss your ideas and determine their feasibility. 

In some cases you’ll also need to submit a separate application for studentships, scholarships or other funding. 

Some PhDs may have deadlines for particular entry points, while others may accept applications at any time. You should check the deadlines for your chosen courses before planning your application.  

How is an PhD degree graded? 

A PhD programme will contain different forms of assessment during its course. A PhD is usually marked as a pass or fail, rather than being subject to the grade boundaries typically used at undergraduate or master’s level study. 

During your studies you might have reviews with your tutor where your performance will be discussed, or chapters of your thesis reviewed, and feedback given. This is just for your development and to maximise your performance leading up to the submission and defending of your thesis. 

After the submission of your thesis, you could receive a pass or fail grade as well as a ‘resubmission’ grade, which will require you to make minor or major corrections and submit it again. 

Following your thesis submission, you’ll need to do an oral presentation in front of an expert panel and defend your thesis – this is normally called your PhD viva. This is usually a presentation followed by questions about the context, methods and conclusions of your research. 

The different elements of your PhD, from your written thesis to your oral presentation, will normally be assessed according to criteria that focus on: 

Your understanding of your work’s academic or industrial context 

• The originality of your work 
• The contribution of your work to the field of research 
• The written quality of your work 
• Use of sound techniques and methods to reach your results 
• The capacity for your work to be published 

However, assessment criteria may differ according to the institution you’re studying at and your assessors. The grading of a PhD usually involves at least one internal and one external assessor. 

Next: Search for PhD courses

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Table of Contents

What is a postgraduate degree, types of postgraduate degrees, difference between undergraduate and postgraduate, admission requirements for postgraduate degree programs, how long does a postgraduate degree take, is earning a postgraduate degree worth it, how a postgraduate degree may impact earning potential, postgraduate courses offered by simplilearn, what is a postgraduate degree.

A postgraduate degree, also known as a graduate degree, is a higher level of education pursued after completing an undergraduate or bachelor's degree. It is designed to provide advanced knowledge and expertise in a specific field or subject area and typically requires a higher level of specialization and research than an undergraduate degree.

Discover other PG Courses here.

Master’s Degree:

A master's degree is a postgraduate degree that is awarded after completing a specific program of study typically lasting 1-2 years. It usually requires the completion of coursework, research, and/or a thesis. There are different types of master's degrees, such as Master of Arts (M.A.), Master of Science (M.S.), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (M.Ed.), and many more, which are tailored to specific fields or disciplines.

PhD (Doctoral Degrees):

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest level of postgraduate degree and is typically awarded for original research in a specific field or subject area. PhD programs often require several years of full-time study and research, and culminate in a dissertation or thesis that makes a significant contribution to the field of study.

Postgraduate Diploma:

A postgraduate diploma is a shorter postgraduate program that typically lasts for 6 months to 1 year. It usually focuses on specific skills and knowledge related to a particular field and does not require a research component like a master's or PhD degree. Postgraduate diplomas are often used to gain specialized knowledge and enhance career prospects.

Postgraduate Certificate:

A postgraduate certificate is similar to a postgraduate diploma in that it is a shorter program typically lasting for 6 months to 1 year. However, it is usually more focused and specific, providing training and expertise in a particular area or field of study. Postgraduate certificates are often used to gain additional qualifications or upgrade skills in a specific field.

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest level of postgraduate degree and is typically awarded for original research in a specific field or subject area. PhD programs often require several years of full-time study and research and culminate in a dissertation or thesis that makes a significant contribution to the field of study. 

A postgraduate diploma is a shorter postgraduate program that typically lasts for 6 months to 1 year. It usually focuses on specific skills and knowledge related to a particular field and does not require a research component like a master's or PhD degree. Postgraduate diplomas are often used to gain specialized knowledge and enhance career prospects. 

A postgraduate certificate is similar to a postgraduate diploma in that it is a shorter program typically lasting for 6 months to 1 year. However, it is usually more focused and specific, providing training and expertise in a particular area or field of study. Postgraduate certificates are often used to gain additional qualifications or upgrade skills in a specific field. 

What is an Undergraduate Degree?

An undergraduate degree is typically the first level of higher education obtained after completing secondary or high school education. It is also known as a bachelor's degree and generally takes 3-4 years to complete, although the duration may vary depending on the country and program of study.    

A postgraduate degree is pursued after completing an undergraduate degree and is designed to provide advanced knowledge, specialization, and research skills in a specific field or subject area. Postgraduate degrees include master's degrees, PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy), postgraduate diplomas, and postgraduate certificates. 

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Admission requirements for postgraduate degree programs may vary depending on the institution, program, and country. Generally, applicants are required to have completed an undergraduate or bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, although some programs may require prior work experience. Other common requirements may include a minimum GPA or academic performance, standardized test scores (such as GRE, GMAT, or TOEFL for international students), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or CV. 

The duration of a postgraduate degree varies depending on the type of program. A master's degree typically takes 1-2 years to complete, while a PhD program may take several years, often 3-5 years or more, depending on the field and research requirements. Postgraduate diplomas and certificates are usually shorter, ranging from 6 months to 1 year. 

Earning a postgraduate degree can be worth it as it can lead to enhanced career prospects, increased earning potential, and specialized knowledge in a specific field. Postgraduate degrees are often required for advanced positions in many professions and can provide opportunities for career advancement, higher salaries, and increased job security.

A postgraduate degree can impact earning potential positively, as it can qualify individuals for higher-paying positions, promotions, or leadership roles in their field. In some industries, having a postgraduate degree may be a requirement for certain specialized roles or to gain a competitive edge in the job market. However, the impact on earning potential can also vary depending on factors such as the field of study, level of experience, geographic location, and market demand for the specific skills or qualifications offered by the postgraduate degree. 

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1. What is an example of a postgraduate diploma?

Example: Postgraduate diploma in Data Science.

2. Which is better, a Masters or PG Diploma?

A Master's is generally considered higher than a PG Diploma. Relevancy depends upon your passion and career goals.

3. What level is a postgraduate diploma?

A postgraduate diploma is typically at a similar level to a master's.

4. Is a PG Diploma equivalent to a master's?

PG Diploma may not always be equivalent to a Master, depending on the program and institution.

Hope this article was able to provide you with a clear understanding on what a postgraduate degree is. If you are looking to enhance your skills and knowledge by enrolling yourself in a Post Graduate Program , we highly recommend you to check the different programs offered by Simplilearn.

If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to post them in the comments section below. Our team will get back to you at the earliest.

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• Integrated Masters with PhD – Explained
• Types of Doctorates

An Integrated Masters with a PhD (iPhD) is a four-year postgraduate level programme that combines a one-year Masters course with a three-year PhD course. They allow students to familiarise themselves with their chosen topic, research methods and academic writing techniques before embarking on their own independent research project. An Integrated Masters with a PhD is particularly popular with international students and students who initially lack specialised knowledge or research skills.

Introduction

An Integrated Masters with PhD, also commonly referred to as either just an Integrated Masters degree or an Integrated PhD, offers a relatively new way to undertake postgraduate training. They maintain the depth and focus of a conventional PhD but offer a more comprehensive doctoral training experience.

Due to their growing popularity, both the number of universities offering these newer forms of PhD and the number of students applying to them has steadily increased.

This page describes what Integrated Masters with PhDs are, who they are for, their advantages and disadvantages, how they differ from conventional PhDs and how they are structured in terms of programme, eligibility and costs. This page is for you if you are considering applying for an integrated course, or simply want to know more about them.

What is an Integrated PhD?

An Integrated PhD is a four-year postgraduate programme. They involve undertaking a one-year Masters degree (MRes or MSc) in your first year, followed by a three-year PhD programme in your second to fourth year. Although the courses run back-to-back, a student can only progress to the second year if they show satisfactory performance in their first year. The one-year Masters and the three-year PhD are considered separately in terms of qualifications; therefore, a student who completes an Integrated PhD will receive both a Masters degree (MRes or MSc) and a PhD as opposed to a single postgraduate qualification.

The aim of an Integrated PhD is to provide a structured approach to doctoral studies, combining advanced PhD research with formal teaching in relevant subjects, research methods and communication skills.

As Integrated PhDs are relatively new compared to more regular doctoral pathways such as stand-alone or MPhil-upgraded PhDs, some professors informally refer to them as ‘New Route PhDs’.

Difference Between Integrated PhD and Regular PhD

The most significant difference between an Integrated PhD and a regular PhD is the addition of the one-year Masters degree at the beginning of the programme. This results in an Integrated PhD typically lasting four years, as opposed to the three years as with regular PhDs.

Integrated PhDs are structured in such a way that they provide students with a broader range of foundational skills than a regular PhD. The first year introduces you to a combination of taught elements, practical experience and advanced research skills. In a regular PhD this mode of teaching is missing as it is assumed you already have this level of knowledge.

The last significant difference between the two types of doctoral programmes is the ‘group’ aspect associated with the Integrated version. Since the Masters programme also includes other students enrolled in Integrated PhDs, you will have a small cohort with whom you will work closely alongside during your studies.

Who are Integrated PhDs suitable for?

Integrated PhDs can be an effective pathway for any student, but they stand out in two situations:

Scenario 1: International Students

The Higher Education system differs across countries , although not by a large amount, enough to where an unfamiliar student may struggle, especially when working independently. An Integrated PhD allows you to adapt to the UK education system by offering a more guided and hands-on approach to your learning and research process before you embark on your three-year research project.

It also has visa benefits. If an international student seeking a Masters degree in the UK already knows they want to follow it up with a PhD, enrolling in an Integrated PhD will save them from having to leave the country and re-apply for a visa after completing their initial postgraduate degree.

Scenario 2: Lack of undergraduate research experience or a relevant Masters degree

An Integrated PhD is useful for students who have academic abilities but lack the necessary background to be considered for a standard-route PhD. This usually occurs under one of three scenarios:

• The applicant is currently an undergraduate student or only holds a Bachelor’s degree,
• The student has a Masters degree, but in a subject only loosely related to the discipline they wish to pursue at doctoral level,
• The student has a relevant Masters degree, but the programme lacked a research focus, leaving the student with underdeveloped research skills.

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Integrated PhD

The advantages of an Integrated PhD are strongly linked to the international and inexperienced students they cater for. They offer students an effective means of gaining more confidence, knowledge and research skills in their field before starting a doctorate, and also provide visa benefits to international students who will be undertaking prior postgraduate study.

Integrated PhDs also enable students the possibility of receiving funding for the Masters phase of their programme, as will be explained in more detail in the ‘Funding Opportunities’ section.

Integrated doctorates have no obvious disadvantages, but are generally not suitable for those who already have a Masters degree or well-developed research skills in their chosen field. For these students, the additional costs and duration of an Integrated PhD can be avoided by opting for a traditional PhD for which they will already be suited for.

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

The programme of study is naturally divided into two parts, the first for your Masters studies and the second for your PhD studies.

Your Masters studies will usually be divided into 180 module credits, half of which will focus on taught components and the other half on research components.

The modules will be tailored to your course, but they will include a variation of:

Taught modules:

• Subject-specific module – You choose one or two modules from a predefined list of topics within your subject area. Your selection should reflect the research area you want your PhD to focus on.
• English and Communication – Academic language and communication skills will be taught to prepare you for the ‘writing-up’ phase of your doctorate. A common misconception is that this module is similar to the English language requirement tests required to apply to a iPhD. In reality, the module will focus on learning how to critically evaluate research sources, write abstracts, literature reviews and conclusions, communicate in lab-based environments and present to audiences.
• Research Techniques  – You’ll receive in-depth training to familiarise you with the different research methods and analytical techniques available to modern researchers.
• Research Proposal Development  – You’ll work with your intended PhD supervisor to prepare a research proposal for your three-year PhD research project.

Research Modules:

You will carry out one or two small laboratory research projects under supervision for practical experience.

If you complete these modules with satisfactory performance, you will be awarded a Masters degree and will be considered for the following three-year PhD programme.

Each university has its own process for making this consideration, but most invite you to an interview with the supervisor you wish to conduct research with. The interview is used to confirm that you have acquired the specialised knowledge and research skills expected at masters level, and beyond that of someone capable of completing doctoral study.

If your interview goes well, you will be enrolled in your PhD programme. From this point on, your path will be the same as a regular PhD student. During your doctoral phase, you will conduct independent research and laboratory work for two years, followed by a final year of writing up and formally submitting your findings as a thesis. Your thesis, expertise and research competence will be assessed in an oral examination known as a viva. Upon successful completion of your viva, you will be officially awarded a PhD, and your studies will come to an end.

It should be noted that aside from the above, your university may offer optional modules which can equip you with a wide range of transferable skills.

Eligibility

Entry requirements for an integrated masters degree in the UK will vary from university to university, but the typical requirement is an Upper Second Class (2:1) honours Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject. Equivalent international qualifications are also accepted.

If you are an international student and English is your second language, most universities will require proof of your English language proficiency through an exam certificate. It’s best to check directly with the universities which certificate types they accept, but the most common English language qualification requirement is an IELTS certificate, with a minimum overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each category.

The typical annual tuition fee for an Integrated PhD in the UK is £4,712 per academic year for home/EU students (or £2,356 for part-time study) and £19,596 per academic year for international students (or £9,798 for part-time study).

As with all doctoral programmes, there are likely to be additional costs associated with your studies, such as bench fees for lab work, travel costs for collaborating and potential write-up fees for students who need more time to submit their thesis. You can get more information about these additional costs on our cost breakdown page .

Funding Opportunities

You can obtain funding for Integrated PhDs in the same way as for regular PhDs. Funding is usually provided by one of the seven UK Research Councils  and research charity organisations such as the  Wellcome Trust ; grants, scholarships and funded opportunities can be found directly in our searchable database .

Funding can either be partial (tuition fees only) or full (tuition fees and living costs). Most funding providers also cover the tuition fee for the Masters degree programme due to being integrated with the PhD, however, you should confirm this on a case-by-case basis.

As with regular PhD funding, the fully-funded opportunities are generally limited to home and EU students.

It’s also worth noting that PhD programmes which include an integrated Masters degree are eligible for a Doctoral Loan , even if you already have a postgraduate Masters degree from a previous university. Applications for Doctoral Loans must be made directly to Student Finance England and you must first be registered for a full doctoral degree. Due to application restrictions, you won’t be able to apply for a separate Postgraduate Masters Loan for the integrated Masters phase of your degree.

Availability

You can search for Integrated PhDs in three ways:

• Our Search Page  – Search for the term ‘Integrated’ in our  comprehensive database of STEM PhDs .
• University Search Pages – Universities advertise their Integrated PhDs on their postgraduate search pages. You can find them by searching the name of the university followed by “ search postgraduate courses ” directly in Google.
• Funding Body Websites – Funding bodies which provide studentships for Integrated PhDs sometimes advertise the positions on their website. A list of the most common funding providers can be found here: PhD Studentships .

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What is a Postgraduate Degree?

Focused, challenging and intensive, postgraduate study can be hugely rewarding , and help you achieve your academic and career goals. read on to find out all you need to know about postgraduate study..

In this blog post, we will cover four types of postgraduate courses in detail - including the length of study, part time and full time options, and the entry requirements:

Masters Degrees

Postgraduate diplomas and certificates

Conversion courses

PhD, Integrated PhD and Professional Doctorates

What is the difference between undergraduate study and postgraduate study?

As the name suggests, a postgraduate degree is the next step after you’ve gained an undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degree.

There are a number of postgraduate routes available, but they all have three things in common:

You’ll dive deeper into your chosen subject, specialising in a field that you’re passionate about , and develop advanced skills

Learning will be faster paced than undergraduate, with greater emphasis on independent study , in-depth reading, and analysis

With more people than ever before holding an undergraduate degree, in a competitive jobs market your postgraduate qualification can help set you apart

What is a Master's degree?

The most popular type of postgraduate degree is a Master’s degree and these typically come in two forms – taught and research:

Taught Master's degrees

If studied full time, taught Master's degrees usually last 12 months from start to finish, and normally include subject-specific taught modules and a dissertation or research project.

Research Master's degrees

Research Master's degrees can take one to two years to complete, and include a more extensive independent research project. Many research Masters’ degrees include some taught modules that introduce specific subjects or relevant professional and research skills.

All Masters’ degrees are equally valued , leading to qualifications such as Master of Science (Msc), Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Research (MRes).

To apply to Newcastle, you’ll typically need a 2:1 at Bachelor’s level or an equivalent qualification. Courses are normally full-time , with part-time and online options available in some subjects.

An example of one course that's different is the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Although it’s studied at the same level of education as other Masters’ courses, you’ll need at least three years of business and management experience gained after your undergraduate degree in order to apply.

MBAs are designed for working professionals to develop the skills they’ve gained through their professional experience.

What are postgraduate diplomas and certificates?

To achieve a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) or Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert), you’ll study at the same level as a Master’s degree.

The work is just as challenging as a Master's, but the programmes are shorter in length and you won’t have to complete a dissertation .

What are conversion courses?

If after completing your undergraduate degree you want to study a different subject area or change your career path, you might decide to complete a conversion course .

In most cases, you’ll need a 2:1 at Bachelor’s level to apply for a conversion course. During the course, you’ll complete a combination of lectures, exams, work placements and practical study .

Some conversion courses lead to specific professional careers such as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) if you want to become a teacher, and the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) if you want to enter the legal profession.

What are PhD, Integrated PhD and Professional Doctorates?

PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy and is the highest level of degree a student can achieve .

Most PhDs require a Master’s degree in a related subject and take three years of full-time study to complete . You can also study towards a PhD part-time , balancing your PhD around your career or family commitments. PhD qualifications are available in most subjects.

As a PhD student, you’ll undertake independent, original research that makes a significant, new contribution to your field . You’ll develop your project with help from an academic supervisor or team of supervisors, and will complete a supervised thesis of around 80,000–100,000 words. Your completed thesis should be suitable for publication.

Different types of PhD funding

Some PhDs, particularly in the sciences, are advertised as studentships. These funded positions are highly competitive and more specific in what you will study , with the topic and supervisor already in place.

An Integrated PhD lasts three to four years and is studied full-time, though some PhDs can be completed part-time over a longer period. An integrated PhD combines advanced taught elements with original research,  and at the end of your research project you’ll write a thesis.

Integrated PhDs are only offered by a select consortium of leading research-based universities in the UK, which includes Newcastle.

Professional Doctorates integrate professional and academic knowledge , combining original research with taught modules and work placements. Your research will be shaped by your professional work and will usually relate to a real-world problem within your field .

A number of Professional Doctorates are accredited by professional bodies and can lead to a professional qualification.

Postgraduate study is a real opportunity to gain a rare, in-depth understanding of your specialism. Though it requires a lot of hard work and determination, postgraduate study is more than worth the time, focus and funding it requires.

If you're interested in finding out more about postgraduate study, explore your options and find inspiration by reading our list of postgraduate courses . , if you're a current newcastle university student, don't forget to explore your postgraduate options by getting in touch with our careers service . .

Published By Newcastle University on 21/06/2020 | Last Updated 21/09/2023

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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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Study for a PhD with us

Ready to make an important contribution to the world through original research? Discover how to do a PhD at Portsmouth 

Explore our PhD subject areas

Find a phd supervisor.

How to apply for a postgraduate degree

A PhD is a globally-recognised postgraduate degree. To gain a PhD, you'll need to conduct extensive original research into a specific chosen field.

When you study for a PhD with us, you'll work with leading experts with extensive experience in your area of interest. You'll become a part of our internationally-recognised research , and a member of our research community. You'll contribute to our collaborative research culture, and use our exceptional facilities too.

And you’ll be following in the footsteps of our previous PhD candidates, many of whom have made important, globally-significant contributions to research – like Harry Austin, whose work on a  mutant plastic-eating enzyme  is making headlines around the world.

Preparing for a PhD

As a general rule, to apply for a PhD you'll need a good first degree from an internationally-recognised university or a Master’s degree in an appropriate subject. We'll also consider applicants with exceptional equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications.

Your PhD will take 3 years (full-time) or 6 years (part-time) to complete, and you'll produce a thesis of 40,000-80,000 words, depending on your subject area. All PhD candidates need a supervisor to supervise them – and finding the right one is an important part of the process.

For more details on what you need to do before you apply for a PhD – from what qualifications you'll need, to what your application should contain – visit our  how to apply for a postgraduate degree  pages.

Ready to explore your PhD options?

There are 3 main routes into a PhD at Portsmouth.

If you have an original idea for a research, you can find a PhD supervisor  among our academics, whose expertise matches your own. You can also apply for one of our pre-approved PhD projects  – including some fully-funded projects – or explore our PhD subject areas  and make an initial enquiry to our postgraduate research team.

See our pre-approved PhD projects

Fees and funding

The cost of your PhD will vary depending on where you're from, what you're studying, and whether you plan to study full-time or part-time. If you're applying for a funded PhD, you'll have no fees to pay.

As a guide, PhDs cost £4,596 a year (full-time) or £2,298 a year (part-time) for UK/EU students, and £16,200-18,300 a year (full-time) or £8,100-9,150 a year (part-time) for international students. If you are an EU student starting a programme in 2022/23 please visit this page .

If you need help funding your PhD, you may be able to apply for a Postgraduate Doctoral Loan – a government loan that you can use for tuition fees, living costs and other course costs. The loan is paid directly to you and you can apply online here .

The amount you’ll receive isn’t based on your or your family’s income. So you can choose how much you borrow (up to £27,265 over your whole course). The loan will be divided equally across each year of study, and you'll only start repaying your loan after your course when your annual income is more than £21,000.

For more information about the Postgraduate Doctoral Loan – and to see other sources of funding that may be open to you when you apply – visit our page on funding your research degree .

PhD stories

Studying for your PhD at Portsmouth is a great decision, but don't just take our word for it. Find out why two of our recent PhD candidates chose us and how their research unfolded.

Danielle's PhD story

Robert's PhD story

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5 routes to getting a Doctorate

While most of those studying for a PhD take the PhD by thesis pathway, there are five viable routes to achieving a Doctorate degree

PhD by thesis

This is the most common means of getting a Doctorate degree. Over the three or four years of research at university, your PhD supervisor will support you as you aim to produce a thesis based on your research proposal .

A thesis is typically 60,000-90,000 words in length - although this can vary between institutions. For instance, the University of Glasgow's College of Social Sciences expects a thesis to be 70,000-100,000 words including references, bibliography and appendices, while the University of Cambridge has set an upper limit of 80,000 words.

Once completed, you'll need to defend your PhD thesis in front of a panel of examiners during your viva voce .

PhD by publication

This route involves submitting previously published work - such as books, book chapters and journal articles, which together form a coherent body of work and show evidence of an original contribution to a particular field of study.

It's often taken by mid-career academics that haven't had the opportunity to undertake a standard Doctorate degree.

Generally, a minimum of five to eight published pieces are required, but this varies between institutions and depends on their length. The published work will be assessed to the same rigorous standards as a traditional PhD by thesis.

You must also provide a written supporting statement, which can range from 5,000 to 20,000 words, and present your work to an academic committee. A supervisor will assist you with selecting which publications to submit and with the supporting statement.

Some universities accept only their own graduates for a PhD by publication, while others restrict this route to their academic staff. In general, you should have graduated from your first degree at least seven years ago to be eligible.

For example, The University of Manchester has published its own Guidance for the PhD By Published Work , with eligibility only extending to current members of staff.

Professional Doctorate

Geared primarily towards current professionals in vocational sectors such as healthcare , teaching and education , and engineering and manufacturing , this type of Doctorate degree includes a significant taught component and a smaller research project.

Professional Doctorates are often taken on a part-time basis and can last between two and eight years. Like their standard PhD counterparts, they usually begin in October or January.

While you won't typically be looking to get an academic job , your research is expected to contribute to theory as well as professional practice. Projects often revolve around a real-life issue that affects your employer.

Several professional Doctorates, such as the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), are accredited by a professional body - for instance, the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and The British Psychological Society (BPS) - and may also lead to a professional qualification .

Common titles for graduates of professional Doctorate degrees include:

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
• Doctor of Education (EdD)
• Doctor of Engineering (EngD)
• Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Unlike many professional Doctorates, the EngD is typically offered as a full-time course and is aimed at young engineering graduates with little or no professional experience.

Explore what's currently available at Find a Professional Doctorate .

Integrated PhD

This four-year qualification, also known as the New Route PhD, involves studying a one-year research Masters degree (MRes) before progressing onto a three-year PhD.

Offered by a select number of universities across the UK, integrated PhDs are supported by the government and the British Council through UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . Visit Research Council funding for further information on research and funding for different types of PhD.

The integrated PhD involves a combination of taught materials, practical experience and advanced research. This allows you to learn subject-specific methodologies, while building the transferable skills that will enable you to become a leader in your chosen profession.

Institutions can also develop personalised integrated PhD programmes to meet each student's needs. For example, universities may offer you the opportunity to gain a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education - perfect if you're considering a career as a higher education lecturer .

As PhDs are based primarily on independent research rather than time spent in lectures and seminars, distance learning has always been a viable route for many Doctoral students.

PhDs by distance learning offered by course providers such as The Open University are therefore a good option to consider if you've got family or work commitments or are an international student - as this gives you the chance to undertake Doctoral research without having to live close to your chosen institution. It's also a suitable mode of study if your subject requires you to be based in a specific location away from the university.

For the most part, you'll be in touch with your supervisor by phone, email or Skype/Zoom. You'll need to bear in mind that even if you opt for this form of research, you'll generally still need to attend university for one or two weeks of each academic year for meetings and to receive research skills training. Your final examination may be undertaken either face-to-face or virtually.

With online PhDs, you can usually register as a full or part-time student. The level of fees you pay varies between institutions - some charge the same as for a standard PhD while others offer a reduced rate.

Check that any funding you plan to apply for is available to distance learning students, as this isn't always the case.

Search for distance learning PhDs .

Find out more

• Explore what is a PhD?
• Sort out funding for postgraduate study .
• Consider what to do after completing your PhD .

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PhD Admissions

Admission Requirements

A baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing from a U.S. program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or an international program with commensurate standards is required for admission to the PhD Program in Nursing.

Post-baccalaureate Students

Applicants with a baccalaureate degree in nursing must demonstrate exceptional academic qualifications, have clear research-oriented career goals, and choose a dissertation topic congruent with the research program of a Graduate Faculty member in the School of Nursing. Applicants with baccalaureate degrees must complete a nursing research and a graduate-level statistics course.

Applying for Admission

The following admission materials must be submitted online to the  Duke University Graduate School . Prospective applicants should familiarize themselves with the Graduate School requirements.

Official, confidential transcript(s) of all college-level coursework.

Optional GRE (Graduate Record Examination) scores - Applicants can submit GRE scores should they feel the scores enhance their application. [Taken within the past 5 years]. For a free online GRE guide, see  http://www.greguide.com / . For free online GRE practice tests, see  http://www.greguide.com/gre-practice-tests.html . Or visit Go Grad for the GRE Guidebook .

Three letters of recommendation. These letters should be solicited from individuals with doctoral degrees who can address the applicant’s academic abilities and potential for doctoral study.

English language proficiency test scores. Foreign graduates must submit either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International Language Testing System (IELTS) accepted, but IELTS is preferred.

Personal Statement. Applicants should submit a paper (1 - 2 typed pages, 12-point font, single-spaced) indicating:

Purposes and objectives for undertaking graduate study

Research interests and career goals

Strengths and weaknesses in the chosen field

A description of a prior research project or research participation and how this has influenced career choice and desire to pursue graduate studies

Reasons for choosing Duke for PhD studies

Name(s) of PhD Nursing faculty members in the School whose research program most closely fits with the applicant’s research interests.

The application and the $95 application fee must be received by December 1.

Holistic Admissions

The Duke University School of Nursing PhD Program is committed to holistic admissions. A holistic review is a university admissions strategy that assesses an applicant’s unique experiences alongside traditional measures of academic achievement such as grades and test scores. It is designed to help universities consider a broad range of factors reflecting the applicant’s academic readiness, contribution to the incoming class, and potential for success both in school and later as a professional.

Holistic review, when used in combination with a variety of other mission-based practices, constitutes a holistic admission process. Many colleges and universities have employed a holistic admission process to assemble a diverse class of students with the background, qualities, and skills needed for success in the profession.

As part of the Duke University School of Nursing PhD Program holistic review process, faculty review principles of holistic admissions prior to reviewing applications. The PhD Program Admissions Committee utilizes an adapted version of the Duke University Center for Exemplary Mentoring holistic admissions review rubric to guide the evaluation of each applicant.

Personal Interview

Applicants may be asked to interview by Zoom or come to campus for an interview. The School covers the costs for campus interview travel except for international travel. International applicants are interviewed via Zoom.

Duke University's Annual Clery Security Report as Mandated by Federal Statute 20 USC § 1092

The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report include institutional policies concerning campus safety and security, as well as statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on Duke University property and on public property adjacent to campus and fires that have occurred in residence halls. A copy of this Report can be obtained by contacting the Duke Police Department at 684-4602 or writing to 502 Oregon Street, Durham, NC 27708, or by accessing:  duke.edu/police/news_stats/clery

Technology Requirements

Learn more on recommended computer specifications and Duke Office of Information Technology-supported software here .

Students with Disabilities: Duke University encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please get in touch with the Duke Student Disability Access Office  in advance of your participation or visit.

Nursing License

Students must hold a valid current nursing license in a U.S. state, preferably North Carolina. To obtain information about nurse licensure procedures for the State of North Carolina, consult the  Licensure/Listing Page of the North Carolina Board of Nursing website , or telephone the North Carolina Board of Nursing at (919) 782-3211. Exceptions to holding a U.S state nursing license for international students can be waived by the PhD Program Director.

All PhD in Nursing applicants are required to have a baccalaureate or master’s degree in nursing accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), or an international nursing program with commensurate standards.

Applicants are expected to have completed a graduate-level statistics course prior to starting the program. This course must have been completed within the last 5 years.

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Call: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2024/2025

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas,  Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2024/2025 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:

All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable.  Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation,  books, research and other expenses.

PhD Degrees by Research Only:

All Colleges offer PhD degrees by Research. Applicants for PhD by research should have a Master's degree in a field relevant to their area of fmther studies and should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants for the PhDs by Research will be required to submit on-line applications and also submit four copies of the concept note in Office No. 410, Level 4, Senate Building.

How to Apply:

•  Visit the Makerere University's  Admissions URL https://apply.mak.ac.ug
• Sign up using full name, e-mail and Mobile No.  Please note that your name must be similar to the one on your suppmting  academic documents for your application to be considered valid.
•  A password will be sent to both your e-mail and mobile number.
• The system will prompt you to change the password to the one you can easily remember.
• To fill a form (all form sections must be filled) the applicant clicks on the APPLY NOW button (for first time applicants) or MY PORTAL button (for renewal of application)   displayed on the appropriate scheme i.e. Taught PhDs, Masters & Postgrad Diplomas OR PhD by Research.
• All academic  transcripts/certificates  and passport photos should be scanned and uploaded on the system.
• You can access the referees’ form by following this link . These should be filled, scanned and uploaded.
•  Obtain a payment Reference No. by clicking on "Pay for Form" button
• Account Name: UGANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY COLLECTIONS
• Account No: 003410158000002
• Swift Code: UGBAUGKAU
• Bank Name: BANK OF UGANDA
• Bank Address: KAMPALA, UGANDA
• Currency: UGANDA SHILLINGS
• Strictly observe the closing date of Friday, 31st May, 2024.
• All Applicants for Master of Laws (LLM) will do a Graduate Admission Test (GAT) consisting of an oral Interview and written test on dates and other requirements to be conm1Unicated by the School.
• All  Applicants  for  Master  of  Business  Administration  (College  of  Business  and  Management Sciences and Makerere University Business School) will do a GMAT test on dates to be communicated by College of Business and Management Sciences and Makerere University Business School respectively.
• In addition to the general admission requirements, applicants for Master of Public Infrastructure Management (MPIM) must have "Proven professional experience of at least 2 years at managerial/supervisory  level or policy-decision making position in a government, parastatal organ, international  organisation  or non-governmental  organisation" Applicants should attach a 2- page short CV and referee recommendations.

Further details of tuition fees and the available programmes open for admission can be accessed from the link below:

Makerere Univeristy Postgraduate Admissions Annoucement 2024/2025 Academic Year