Types of Postgraduate qualifications
Explore the different postgraduate qualifications, from Postgraduate Certificates to PhDs. Learn what makes each qualification unique and find the right path for your future.
Thinking about your future? So are we.
When it comes to postgraduate study, the possibilities are endless – and there’s a qualification for every ambition.
Whether you're looking to fast-track your career with a professional qualification or dive into advanced research, the choices are endless. Some degrees are tailored to specific professions, providing you with the expertise needed to excel, while others lay the groundwork for groundbreaking academic discovery. The path you choose will shape your future – but whichever you decide, it’s a step towards something bigger.
This is where possibilities begin to unfold. Here, we help you understand your options and navigate the journey ahead.
The big 5
When it comes to postgraduate study, there are five key types of qualifications to choose from.
These qualifications come in a wide variety of subjects, with options for both full-time and part-time study. Some are closely linked to the field you studied at undergraduate level, while others are open to a range of disciplines. We’ll help you explore your options in more detail and find the right path for you.
Taught Masters (MA/MSc, etc.)
Level 7, PGT Clustered
Masters by Research (MRes)
Level 7, PGR Clustered
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
Level 7, PGT Clustered
Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
Level 7, PGT Clustered
Doctor of Philosophy (PHD)
Level 8, PGR Clustered
What’s the difference?
The main distinctions lie in the depth of study, and the level of expertise required. While all postgraduate qualifications allow you to explore your subject in greater detail, the depth of knowledge and specialisation increases from Postgraduate Certificates and Diplomas to Masters and PhDs.
They also differ in terms of structure – some are more taught and hands-on, while others are more independent and research-based. PGCerts, PGDips, and Taught Masters are classified as Postgraduate Taught (PGT) degrees, while MRes and PhDs are classified as Postgraduate Research (PGR) degrees.
Additionally, the number of credits required typically increases with the qualification level. For example, a Postgraduate Certificate usually requires 60 credits, a Postgraduate Diploma requires 120 credits, and a Masters requires 180 credits.
For a PhD, as most of the learning is research-based, instead of structured modules, the focus is on original research, writing a thesis, and contributing new knowledge to your field. While some universities use credit systems to quantify the workload, PhDs are primarily measured by the depth of research and the final thesis rather than the number of credits or modules completed.
Many courses are structured to allow flexibility – you can complete just enough modules to earn a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma, or continue to gain the full Masters qualification. With research-focused options like the MRes, you can also tailor your level of study to match your goals.
Below you can learn more about each option to help you decide on your future.
Search for your perfect postgraduate degree
Find the postgraduate path that’s right for you—search our postgraduate courses and take the next step in your academic or professional journey.
Your full guide to applying at Hull
If you’ve found the postgraduate qualification that fits your goals, it’s time to dive into the next steps. Our full guide will walk you through the application process to Hull, plus you’ll get all the details on entry requirements for your course. Let’s get you started on this next chapter.
Remember: PGDips, PGCerts and taught Masters are PGT Degrees, whereas Masters by Research and PHDs are PGR Degrees.
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