The 4 Differences Between Studying A Degree And A Postgraduate Degree
If you plan to take a master's degree or doctorate after completing your studies, you should know what is waiting for you. These are the 4 differences between pursuing a degree and a postgraduate degree.
Did you know that there are differences between pursuing a degree and a postgraduate degree? Many students believe that pursuing a graduate degree after graduation will be given as a "natural transition," perhaps with more responsibilities but with a basically the same routine. But this is not the case, since studying a graduate degree presents dynamics and challenges that are very different from what you may have become accustomed to at university.
As the PhD Tara Kuther, an expert in postgraduate studies, comments in the portal About Education , one of the moments she most remembers in her studies was when a teacher explained that starting a master's degree or a doctorate means " moving from being a knowledge consumer to a knowledge generator . "
This phrase perfectly summarizes the great difference between both levels of learning, which in turn is reflected in these 4 aspects:
1. Classes are just the beginning
While most of the university experience lies in attending classes and then studying to pass the exams, in a graduate program the classes are just the beginning. This is because what is expected of a student at this level is that they have a knowledge of their discipline at a professional and independent level.
For this reason, it is likely that during the last months of the master's or in the last years of the doctorate you do not even have to attend class, instead you will have to work on your own research.
2. Apprenticeship Model
By virtue of the above, most of the knowledge that you will acquire during your graduate degree will be the product of activities outside the classroom. One of the most enriching instances will be to participate in research projects led by teachers , which will provide you with the necessary tools to then turn to your own project.
3. It's like a job
More than just a training instance, postgraduate studies should be considered as a job. If you were one of those students who could pass an exam studying the night before, be prepared to change your behavior, since much more is expected from a master's or doctoral student.
The reference texts are longer and more complex, and you must be ready to discuss and analyze them. You must take the initiative in your own learning , since no one will guide or pressure you to fulfill your tasks. All up to you.
4. It is an instance of networking
The pursuit of postgraduate studies will give you a unique look at your professional field, as well as provide you with the necessary tools to perform properly. For this reason, it is the perfect opportunity to establish valuable contacts for your career . You must take great care of the relationship with the teachers and the other students, since this time in addition to being classmates are your colleagues.
