The Difference Between Graduate and Postgraduate Degrees

Written by Anjali  »  Updated on: March 17th, 2025

The Difference Between Graduate and Postgraduate Degrees

 

Introduction

Numerous students frequently question the distinction between graduate and postgraduate degrees. If you're confused about concepts like Graduate vs Postgraduate, bachelor’s against master’s degrees, or even the variations in courses in India, you've come to the right spot. Let's simplify it for you!

What is a Graduate Degree?

A Graduate degree generally refers to a bachelor's degree. This is the initial level of higher education that individuals seek after finishing high school. Typical examples include:

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)  
  • Bachelor of Science (BSc)  
  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)  
  • Bachelor of Engineering (BE/B.Tech)  

A bachelor’s degree typically requires 3-4 years to finish, depending on the nation and the structure of the course.

What is a Postgraduate Degree?  

A Postgraduate degree refers to an advanced level of education pursued after obtaining a graduate degree. This category encompasses:  

  • Master’s Degrees (such as Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Business Administration (MBA))  
  • Doctoral Degrees (PhD)  

Typically, master’s programs require 1-2 years to finish, while doctoral degrees often take between 3-5 years to complete.

Graduate vs Postgraduate Programs in India 

India provides a range of graduate and postgraduate programs spanning various fields:  

Graduate Degrees in India:  

  • Arts & Humanities – BA in English, History, and Political Science  
  • Science – BSc in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology  
  • Commerce & Management – BCom and BBA  
  • Engineering & Technology – BTech and BE  
  • Medicine & Health Sciences – MBBS, BDS, and BPharm

Postgraduate Degrees in India:  

  • Arts & Humanities – Master of Arts in English, Sociology, Economics  
  • Science – Master of Science in Mathematics, Biotechnology, Environmental Science  
  • Management – Master of Business Administration, Post Graduate Diploma in Management  
  • Engineering & Technology – Master of Technology, Master of Engineering  
  • Medicine & Health Sciences – Doctor of Medicine, Master of Surgery, Master of Pharmacy  

Difference Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees

An Undergraduate degree is another name for a graduate degree (or bachelor's). The main difference between bachelors and masters degree are: 

  • General education in a field is provided by undergraduate degrees.
  • Opportunities for specialized knowledge and study are provided by postgraduate degrees.

To further specialize, you may, for instance, pursue an MSc in Artificial Intelligence after earning a BSc in Computer Science. 

Graduate Degree vs Master’s Degree: Are They Same?

No, graduate degree vs masters degree not the same. A master's degree is a postgraduate qualification, whereas a bachelor's degree is a graduate program. The master's degree offers advanced competence in your field and expands on the knowledge you gained from your bachelor's.

Conclusion:

Your job ambitions will determine whether you choose a graduate or postgraduate degree. If you’re just starting out, a bachelor’s degree is the way to go. If you want to specialize and boost your career prospects, a postgraduate degree is a great choice!

 

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