Choosing to continue your studies after an undergraduate degree is a big step. But when researching postgraduate options, you’ll likely come across two terms that often confuse students — PG and MA.
So, what exactly is the difference between PG and MA, and how can you decide which is the better fit for your goals?
At Find Study, we help students across the UK and beyond choose the right degree route, ensuring their time and investment lead to meaningful career progress.
Let’s break down the distinction between these postgraduate paths and help you make an informed decision.
What Does PG Mean?
The abbreviation PG stands for Postgraduate. It’s a broad term that refers to any study undertaken after completing a bachelor’s degree.
This means PG courses include several types of qualifications, such as:
- Master’s degrees (like MA, MSc, or MBA)
- Postgraduate diplomas (PGDip)
- Postgraduate certificates (PGCert)
- Professional qualifications (e.g., PGCE for teaching)
- Research degrees (like MPhil and PhD)
So in essence, all MA degrees are PG degrees, but not all PG qualifications are MAs.
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What Is an MA Degree?
An MA, or Master of Arts, is a specific type of postgraduate qualification that focuses primarily on subjects in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.
Typical MA subjects include:
- English Literature
- History
- Education
- Media and Communication
- Fine Arts
- Political Science
An MA usually takes one year of full-time study or two years part-time, and it involves a mix of taught modules, essays, and a final dissertation.
The Core Difference Between PG and MA
The key difference between PG and MA lies in scope and specialisation.
| Feature | PG (Postgraduate) | MA (Master of Arts) |
| Definition | Any course after a bachelor’s degree | A specific postgraduate degree in arts/humanities |
| Level | Postgraduate level (varied) | Postgraduate level (taught) |
| Examples | PGDip, MSc, MBA, MA, PGCert | MA in History, English, Media, etc. |
| Duration | 6 months to 2 years | Typically 1 year full-time |
| Focus | Professional or academic | Academic or research-based |
| Outcome | Can be certificate, diploma, or degree | Always a master’s degree |
In other words, the MA is one type of PG course. So when someone asks, “Should I do a PG or an MA?”, the real question is what type of postgraduate qualification best suits their ambitions.
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When to Choose a PG Course
A PG course might be right for you if:
- You want to gain professional qualifications quickly (e.g., PGCE for teaching).
- You’re looking to upskill or retrain in a new field.
- You don’t yet want to commit to a full master’s programme.
- You want to study part-time while working.
For example, a Postgraduate Certificate in Marketing can help professionals gain specific, career-relevant skills without the time and cost of a full MA.
When to Choose an MA Degree
An MA degree might suit you better if:
- You want to pursue a career in academia, research, or creative industries.
- You aim to build deep theoretical and analytical understanding in your field.
- You’re considering progressing to a PhD or academic teaching.
- You want to enhance employability in competitive roles that value critical thinking.
For instance, students studying an MA in Education often progress into policy, curriculum development, or leadership roles within schools and higher education institutions.
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Entry Requirements: PG vs MA
Although both are postgraduate, entry requirements can differ.
- PGCerts and PGDips: Usually require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
- MAs: Typically require a 2:1 or 2:2 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.
- Professional PG courses: May require industry experience or specific certifications.
Most UK universities expect strong writing and analytical skills, particularly for MA-level study.
Duration and Structure
Another difference between PG and MA is how long they take and what’s included.
- PGCert: Around 15–30 credits (3–6 months).
- PGDip: Around 60 credits (9–12 months).
- MA: 180 credits (usually 12 months full-time).
The MA typically includes a final dissertation or project, which demonstrates independent research ability — a key factor for academic or policy careers.
Cost Difference Between PG and MA Courses
Cost can vary depending on the qualification type and university.
| Course Type | Average Tuition Fee (UK Students) | International Students |
| PGCert | £3,000 – £5,000 | £5,000 – £8,000 |
| PGDip | £5,000 – £8,000 | £7,000 – £12,000 |
| MA | £8,000 – £12,000 | £12,000 – £20,000 |
Remember, MAs typically last longer and offer more credits — hence the higher cost. However, they often provide stronger returns in career advancement and research opportunities.
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Career Prospects: PG vs MA
Both PG and MA courses can lead to career growth — but in different ways.
- PGCert or PGDip: Ideal for quick upskilling, promotions, or changing industries.
- MA: Suitable for academic, creative, or research-driven career paths.
Which One Is Better — PG or MA?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The difference between PG and MA is about purpose, not quality.
If you want specialised, career-driven skills, choose a PGCert or PGDip.
If you want academic depth or research exposure, an MA will serve you better.
At Find Study, we recommend reviewing:
- Your career timeline (short-term vs long-term goals)
- Your budget and availability
- The type of learning you enjoy (practical vs theoretical)
We help match your profile with the best UK universities and postgraduate routes that align with your ambitions.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between PG and MA can save you time, money, and uncertainty.
A PG qualification gives you quick, practical advancement opportunities, while an MA degree builds deeper expertise and academic credibility. Both paths can boost your career — the key is choosing the one that fits your ambitions and lifestyle.
At Find Study, we specialise in helping students explore UK universities, compare postgraduate options, and choose the course that truly aligns with their goals.
Explore your next step with confidence — your future starts here.
FAQs
1. Is an MA higher than a PG course?
Not necessarily. An MA is a type of PG qualification, but some PG courses (like PGDip) sit at the same academic level but offer fewer credits.
2. Can I do an MA without previous postgraduate experience?
Yes. Most students progress to an MA directly after their bachelor’s degree, provided they meet entry requirements.
3. Which is more valuable, a PGDip or an MA?
Both are valuable — it depends on your goals. If you want academic or research roles, choose an MA. For fast, career-focused advancement, a PGDip is often sufficient.
