Bachelor’s Degree - Typically a 3 year program where students take only courses directly related to their degree
- A fourth year is required in some specialized and professional fields such as engineering or law.
- Combined or double-degrees are also available and are usually 4-6 years in length.
Bachelor of Honours (4th year) - One year research focused program open to students who are top performers and may allow accelerated entry to a master’s or a doctorate degree.
- Students apply after finishing their bachelor’s degree in Australia or New Zealand.
- Students should take this fourth year if they plan to attend graduate school in any country.
Graduate/Postgraduate Certificate - One semester program of graduate level work that is a stand-alone qualification for students wishing to add specialization or continuing education to their undergraduate study.
- May also serve as preparatory/bridging coursework if intended master’s degree is in a significantly different area than undergraduate degree.
Graduate/Postgraduate Diploma - One year program of graduate level work that is a stand-alone qualification like the graduate and postgraduate certificate.
- In New Zealand, students typically must enroll in a postgraduate diploma before moving into a second year of a master’s program.
Master’s Degree - Australia - Master’s by Coursework is 1.5 – 2 years with some as short as one year usually involving 70-80% classes and a minor thesis project during the second half of the degree.
- Master’s by Research involves 100% intensive, self-directed research leading to the production of a thesis or major research project with guidance from supervisory professor.
Master’s Degree - New Zealand - Generally two years in length. First year consists of coursework with applied projects (completed during postgraduate diploma). Second year is a major research project or thesis in a student’s chosen area of interest.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Consists of 3-5 years of self-directed research leading to a major dissertation.
- Typically can start at any time during the year based on agreement with supervising professor.
*Applying for a PhD varies by university/program and is very different to the process in North American. Contact us to discuss the PhD admissions process
Professional Doctorate - Consists of 2-3 years of intensive coursework and a research component.
- Most often earned in fields such as law, psychology, and education (including teacher education).
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