Undergraduate and postgraduate describe levels of higher education. Undergraduate study is normally the first level of university/college education leading to a bachelor’s degree or other initial higher-education qualification. Postgraduate study follows an undergraduate qualification and provides advanced specialization, professional training or research.
Naming conventions vary by country and qualification framework.
At a glance
| Point | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry requirement | Secondary-school leaving qualification or equivalent | Relevant degree/diploma plus program-specific requirements |
| Depth | Foundation + major/specialization | Advanced specialization/research/professional development |
| Examples | Bachelor’s degree, associate degree in some systems | Honours, postgraduate diploma, master’s, doctorate |
| Research | May include projects | Often more research-intensive at master’s/doctoral level |
| Class size/learning style | Broader taught curriculum | More specialized, independent and research-oriented |
Undergraduate
Initial tertiary study undertaken before completing a bachelor’s-level degree or equivalent first higher-education qualification.
Postgraduate
Advanced study undertaken after an appropriate undergraduate qualification.
Postgraduate does not always mean master’s
A postgraduate certificate/diploma or honours program can sit between a bachelor’s degree and a master’s, depending on the national qualification framework. Always compare the actual NQF/EQF/credit level rather than the word alone.
Professional programs
Some careers require postgraduate professional study after a bachelor’s degree. Others use integrated long degrees that do not fit a simple undergraduate/postgraduate split.
Research degrees
A research master’s or doctorate emphasizes original research, supervision, methodology and a thesis/dissertation. Taught postgraduate degrees may instead use coursework plus a smaller research project.
Frequently asked questions
Is an honours degree postgraduate?
In systems such as South Africa it is generally postgraduate.
Is a bachelor’s degree undergraduate?
Yes.
Can you start postgraduate study without a bachelor’s?
Sometimes alternative pathways exist, but programs normally require an appropriate prior qualification.
Is postgraduate study always harder?
It is generally more advanced and specialized, but difficulty depends on discipline and program.
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