Choosing the right qualification is critical in shaping your career and future opportunities. Whether it is a diploma, degree, or postgraduate diploma, these options each offer unique benefits and cater to specific goals.
In South Africa, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate diplomas are recognised qualifications that will enhance your CV and help in your chosen career path. Still, each of these business qualifications has specific differences that make them unique.
What is a degree
When you think of studying for a degree in Cape Town, or anywhere else, for that matter, you might be thinking of a bachelor’s degree.
While this qualification certainly opens up more doors than a diploma or higher certificate, some students may find that a specialised diploma offers more value than a general degree.
Regardless, some of the characteristics of degrees include:
- A bachelor’s degree takes three to four years to complete, depending on the mode of study and specific qualifications.
- A degree often provides a generalised specialisation within specific fields. For example, a BCom (Bachelor of Commerce) degree focuses on a range of subjects without the greater area of commerce, such as economics, business studies, accounting, marketing, commercial law and various other modules.
- In the workplace, applicants with degrees may receive a better pay grade than one with a diploma or higher certificate. In some fields, degrees are a pre-requisite.
What is a diploma?
As valuable as a degree can be, achieving a diploma can also offer several benefits for your career.
This qualification is similar to a certificate often awarded through community colleges or vocational schools.
Many businesses accept diplomas rather than other qualifications, especially in fields requiring skilled applicants. This is because diplomas focus on one area without the broader education typically included within a degree.
Some characteristics of diplomas include:
- Diplomas typically come in two-to-three-year courses that extensively cover a specific skill area. For instance, a Diploma in Financial Management deals exclusively with subjects relating to finance management in the business and government sectors, with modules designed to provide an extensive understanding of related topics.
- Admission requirements for diploma courses can be more accessible than admission for degrees.
- Depending on your chosen career, a diploma can have just as much value as any other type of qualification. If you are specialising in a field, what matters is that you have qualifications that provide value to prospective employers. For those interested in finance and other specialised fields, a diploma will be an excellent way to enter your career of choice.
What is a postgraduate diploma?
A postgraduate diploma (often abbreviated as PGDip) is a well-recognised qualification for those seeking to advance their education beyond a bachelor’s degree without committing to the extended duration or cost of a complete master’s programme.
It is a flexible and practical option, offering in-depth knowledge and specialist skills in a specific field, from business to education.
Some characteristics of postgraduate diplomas include:
- A PGDip generally takes around six months to one year to complete, as opposed to one to two years for a complete master’s degree.
- Admission requirements may vary, but students who pursue a postgraduate diploma need an undergraduate degree and a few years of experience.
- Whether in the business, IT, education, or healthcare industries, postgraduate diplomas often cover the most recent industry trends and needs, preparing professionals for the current job market.
- Many programmes incorporate case studies, group projects, or internships to give students a closer look at industry requirements.
How do you choose the right qualification?
There are several factors to consider when choosing the proper qualification. Here are some of the things to keep in mind when selecting the appropriate qualification for you.
Career goals and aspirations
A diploma is often a quicker, more focused option if you want to step into a specific trade or technical career, such as financial management or graphic design.
Diplomas typically provide hands-on skills tailored for immediate job entry. However, a degree is usually essential for higher-tier professional roles like engineering, finance, or teaching.
On the other hand, a postgraduate diploma is best if you already have an undergraduate degree and would like to advance your career by learning more specialised skills or changing jobs.
Time commitments
Diplomas are shorter, often taking 2 to 3 years, making them ideal if you want to enter the workforce quickly.
Conversely, degrees require at least 3 to 4 years, with postgraduate diplomas sitting between 1 to 2 years, depending on whether you study part-time or full-time.
It is also essential to consider your lifestyle. Are you balancing a job or family commitments? Flexible schedules, such as online courses or part-time options, are widely available for diplomas and postgraduate diplomas.
However, degrees typically demand more intensive effort, so you must ensure you can fully commit to the workload.
This is where distance learning can help as you can study while working, making it easier to balance your work, life, and studies.
Long-term benefits and opportunities
The decision isn’t just about today — it is about setting yourself up for the future. Consider how each qualification supports your long-term growth.
Degrees generally offer higher lifetime earning potential and are often required for managerial or senior roles.
Also, if further study is part of your career plan, consider whether your chosen qualification now sets you up for higher education opportunities.
For instance, a diploma can often be converted into a degree, while postgraduate diplomas can serve as a bridge to a master’s degree later.
FAQ
Is a postgraduate diploma equivalent to a degree?
While both are respected pathways, they serve different purposes and cater to varying educational needs. A postgraduate diploma (PGDip) is academically higher than an undergraduate degree but shorter than a master’s.
In South Africa, a degree is classified as an NQF Level 7, whereas a postgraduate diploma is an NQF Level 8.
Therefore, students can only pursue a postgraduate diploma after completing a degree or an equivalent NQF Level 7 qualification.
Can I do a master’s after a postgraduate diploma?
Whether you can pursue a master’s degree directly after a postgraduate diploma depends on the specific school or university. However, in many cases, you are able to do so. Here is how it works:
- Credit transfer: Many PGDip programmes allow students to transfer the credits they have earned towards a master’s degree.
- Additional requirements: To upgrade your PGDip to a master’s, you must usually complete additional coursework or a dissertation. The dissertation acts as the research component distinguishing a master’s degree from a postgraduate diploma.
- Eligibility criteria: Universities generally assess eligibility based on your academic performance in the PGDip programme. Most institutions require a pass with merit or distinction to transition into a master’s course.
Why should I consider postgraduate studies?
Postgraduate studies are ideal for graduates who already have a degree but are looking to enhance their skills or specialise in a specific field. Pursuing a postgraduate diploma or a postgraduate degree (honours or master’s) can help advance your career and grow into managerial positions a lot sooner.
Study a diploma, degree, or postgraduate diploma with REGENT
Ultimately, only you can decide which is best for your own personal goals. But when you compare them, you will soon see the difference between degrees, diplomas, and postgraduate diplomas.
To learn more about choosing a distance learning qualification at our Cape Town campus, contact REGENT today.
