Postgraduate course information
What is postgraduate study?
Postgraduate study is the term used to describe a course that leads to an award such as a graduate diploma, a master's degree or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Entry to a postgraduate course usually requires prior completion of a relevant undergraduate degree (or diploma).
There are two main types of postgraduate courses – research and coursework.
Coursework programs consist of units of study rather than research work. They usually require attendance at lectures and tutorials.
Coursework programs
You may have a number of reasons to consider postgraduate coursework. Whether you want to qualify for a profession or gain accreditation, enhance your career path, change careers altogether or pursue a personal interest, we can help you achieve your goals with our wide breadth of coursework programs.
Master's degree
Sydney offers a wide range of specialist masters degrees for graduates who want to gain specialised knowledge and skills. You usually need to complete an undergraduate degree before commencing a master's degree.
Graduate diploma
The graduate diploma is based on the master's program but requires fewer units of study. It is an excellent option for students who do not wish to commit to a full master's program, but want to gain a solid grounding in their chosen field.
Graduate certificate
The graduate certificate is intended for those who wish to undertake a short academic training course for career reasons, or to sample further study.
Non-award study
Students who wish to undertake one or more units of study (subjects) for their own interest but not towards a degree, may enrol in single units as a non-award student. These could help you to update your professional knowledge or to explore subjects of general interest. If you subsequently enrol in an award course, it may be possible to credit these units towards a formal qualification.
Many faculties, for example, Sydney Law School, Arts and Social Sciences and Health Sciences, offer non-degree study.
To search for single units of study, go to Find a course and select the ‘advanced unit of study search’ link on the right hand side.
You will need to contact the faculty to see if single units are available.
Flexible learning options
We know that the way we learn, work and live is always changing. That’s why we offer flexibility in how you can complete our coursework programs.
For example, some programs are delivered face-to-face (on campus) or via block. Others may be available via distance and online learning.
Many of our courses offer a choice of attendance options, such as full-time, part-time, part-time evening, block or intensive, so you can organise your study commitments to suit your lifestyle.
To check the study mode and attendance options for your area of interest, go to Find a course, choose “Advanced Course Search” and select the “Study Mode” and “Attendance” from the drop down menu.
Ask a Question to find out more about postgraduate coursework.