When deciding to pursue tertiary study, you may find yourself faced with a myriad of decisions – Where should you study? What course are you interested in? And, most importantly, what level of qualification do you wish to complete? These days, graduate diplomas and masters’ degrees are popular choices, but which level of study is right for you?

Here are four main differences between a graduate diploma and a master’s degree to help you navigate the many options available to you:

1. Fast completion

A graduate diploma can be completed in just 12 months, whereas a typical master’s degree can take up to two years or more to complete. So, if you’re looking to upskill in a short space of time, a graduate diploma is a great way to do that fast.

At ECA, we know you’re busy balancing work and life. There are eight units to be completed as part of the Graduate Diploma Management (Learning), which you can easily fit in around your life commitments.

 

2. Salary boost

A graduate diploma has fewer units than a masters, so you will pay less for your postgraduate qualification. A master’s program can cost up to $60,000, depending on the university and course you choose.

A graduate diploma offers you an affordable postgraduate educational opportunity, which can lead to career progression and a salary boost. By enrolling in a graduate diploma, you’ll demonstrate your commitment to investing in your own professional development and career. As a result, you may be able to negotiate your salary into a higher pay grade upon completion of your course.

According to the Australian Government’s QILT survey program, including the 2018 Graduate Outcomes Survey, the median salary for postgraduate coursework graduates working full-time was $83,300. Some senior roles command more than $100,000 per year.

 

3. Flexible learning

When you choose a graduate diploma, you will complete the core units of a master’s degree. This gives you further specialised knowledge and valuable insight into your chosen pathway, without the long-term commitment. But, most importantly, you will have a peace of mind knowing that, if you do decide to pursue your masters in the future, your graduate diploma can be used as credit towards that.

Our courses’ content is broken down into small chunks, so you can study when it suits you. This course is a flexible, 100% online learning pathway that even the busiest of people can fit into their schedule and complete successfully.

 

4. Kickstart your career

No matter which postgraduate course you decide to pursue, you can be confident that your new qualifications will show your employers that you’re serious about moving forward in your career. Keep ahead of your competition, give your career a kickstart and set yourself up so you can nab that promotion or new role you’ve always dreamed of. Postgraduate qualifications open doors.

 

Get Started

Are you ready to secure your future with a Graduate Diploma in Management (Learning) qualification? Contact the ECA team, fill in the form on the side panel.

 

REFERENCES:
https://www.studyinaustralia.gov.au/english/australian-education/education-costs
https://www.qilt.edu.au/docs/default-source/gos-reports/2018-gos/2018-gos-national-report-2018.pdf?sfvrsn=a729e33c_4os/2018-gos-national-report-2018.pdf?sfvrsn=a729e33c_4