If you are thinking about going back to university for postgraduate study, you are likely aware of the different study options available. Before making your decision, it is essential to determine which level of study aligns best with your goals.

To help find the level of study that is right for you, here is a breakdown of each course type offered at Queen’s University Belfast.

Master's degrees (MA/MSc/MArch/MBA/MEd/LLM)

A master's degree is a graduate degree that allows students to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in a particular field. Typically, the course is delivered via a combination of lectures, tutorials, discussion groups, group work, and presentations. If you are studying for a master’s degree, you will be required to write a dissertation or thesis in your final year.

Master’s degrees can last between one and three years, depending on how you choose to study your degree. If you are a busy professional, studying for your degree on a part-time basis with only one or two classes a semester could help you manage your study around a work schedule. If you can dedicate more time to being a student, you could finish within one or two years by studying full time.

Postgraduate Diplomas (PgDip)

A Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) is a postgraduate qualification that is the same level of study as a master’s degree, but it does not require you to write a thesis or dissertation.

A PgDip is suitable for students who are looking for further postgraduate study, but do not want to commit to a master’s. Depending on the course, it will take one year to complete full time, or two to three years to complete part-time.

Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) 

A Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) is a postgraduate qualification and is the shortest, taught postgraduate award. It takes around one year to study part-time, or 15 weeks full time depending on your course. Like a postgraduate diploma, it does not require you to write a thesis or dissertation.

Postgraduate certificates are suitable for students who want to progress into postgraduate study but are looking for a more time and cost-efficient option.

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is one of the most popular academic qualifications for teaching in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The PGCE takes one academic year to complete full-time, and two years part-time.

A PGCE allows students to gain hands-on experience with school placements, alongside studying the theory behind teaching and learning.