If you’ve already completed your first qualification and are thinking about what comes next, you may be asking: What are postgraduate studies, and are they worth it?
Postgraduate education builds on your existing knowledge. It helps you specialise, grow your career, or even change direction completely.
In South Africa, there are several postgraduate study options, from diplomas to master’s degrees. Understanding the different postgraduate education levels can help you choose the right path based on your goals, time, and experience.
In this guide, we’ll break everything down in a simple, easy-to-understand way.
What are postgraduate studies?
After completing your first qualification at a distance learning or traditional university, the next step is to consider postgraduate studies.
Postgraduate courses refer to studies that you complete after obtaining an undergraduate qualification.
This type of course comes in the form of a:
- Postgraduate diploma
- Honours
- Masters
- Or even a doctorate in some fields
Work experience may count towards your entry requirements in some cases. But often, a completed undergraduate qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree, is required to study further.
Diploma vs honours vs master’s: What’s the difference?
There are mainly three types of postgraduate study qualifications, and each offers a different experience and has different admission requirements.
Here’s a simple breakdown of each:
- A postgraduate diploma typically takes one year to complete, focuses on practical, career-based skills, and is ideal if you want to upskill quickly. Usually, you need a bachelor’s degree, an advanced diploma, or equivalent qualification, and at least two years of managerial experience to be eligible.
- An honours degree takes 1-2 years to complete and builds deeper academic knowledge in your field. It’s also often required for further study (master’s degree). Honours degrees typically require a three-year undergraduate degree and a 55% mark in the major.
- A master’s degree in South Africa is more advanced and takes around 20 months to complete. It includes extensive research and prepares you for leadership roles or specialised expertise. Admission requirements vary widely by institution, but you may be required to hold a relevant honours degree or postgraduate diploma, and to have 3 years of work experience. You must also be over 25.
Reasons to consider postgraduate studies in South Africa
Some of the reasons that you might consider postgrad studies in South Africa include the following:
Enhanced employability
In many fields, a postgrad applicant is considered a better prospect than an applicant without additional qualifications in their field of expertise.
The skills developed over the course of obtaining postgraduate qualifications are therefore very useful for helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
Even a year of additional study can help you gain critical insight into your chosen career, enhancing your employability and advancing your career path.
Career progression
On a related note, career progression is another benefit of pursuing further study.
Whether you’re adding to your set of specialist skills or aiming for more of a management role within your chosen field, gaining additional qualifications helps you progress up the proverbial corporate ladder by opening the door for promotions and growth.
Career diversity
On the other hand, if you are qualified in one field but long to change direction, studying further is a great way to do so. You may have obtained your undergrad qualification in a broader field, choosing to specialise in something related or similar as a postgrad student.
Or, you may have completed your original degree many years ago, only to decide to go back to business school much later. Whatever the case, changing careers becomes a lot easier with the help of postgraduate degrees or diplomas.
Plus, pursuing a master’s degree offers even more benefits, as Forbes outlines. These include honing your craft, expanding your network, and building relationships with powerful people in your industry.
How long do postgraduate studies take?
The years to complete postgraduate studies can vary depending on the qualification and your study format (full-time or part-time).
In general:
- A postgraduate diploma usually takes around 1 year to complete.
- An honours degree also typically takes 1 year full-time.
- A master’s degree can take between 1 and 2 years, depending on whether it includes research.
Some students choose to study part-time while working, which can slightly extend these timelines.
When looking at postgraduate qualifications South Africa, it’s important to choose a timeline that fits your lifestyle and career goals.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to start postgraduate studies?
In most cases, you will need a completed undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification to apply. Some institutions may also consider relevant work experience, especially for professional programmes.
Understanding the difference between undergraduate and postgraduate study is key, postgraduate programmes build on the foundation you’ve already developed.
Can I study postgraduate programmes part-time?
Yes, many institutions, like REGENT, offer flexible learning options, including part-time and distance learning. This makes it easier for working professionals to continue studying while gaining experience in a specific career.
Are postgraduate qualifications worth it for career advancement?
Yes, further study can significantly improve your career prospects. Many employers value advanced skills and knowledge, especially for leadership roles.
Investing in higher education qualifications South Africa can lead to better opportunities, higher earning potential, and long-term growth.
Does REGENT Business School offer postgraduate programmes?
Yes, REGENT offers a wide range of postgrad programmes, including business-focused qualifications designed for working professionals.
A REGENT Business School postgraduate qualification combines practical learning with industry relevance, helping students build real-world skills.
Study a postgraduate qualification with REGENT
Investing in your future by improving your current qualifications is the most effective way to map out a career path geared towards success.
To learn more about our postgraduate courses in South Africa, have a look at the different options here:
