Study a degree

A degree is part of Higher Education. Rather than spreading your studies across multiple subjects, degrees offer in-depth learning into one speciality.

Immediately following school, undergraduate degrees are popular stepping stones into professional job prospects. Following that, postgraduate degrees offer a more intensive qualification into specialist skills and careers.

The world becomes your classroom when choosing between studying a degree abroad or pursuing your degree online. Universities around the world are starting to offer more and more flexible programs, which means you can get a degree from a top international university without leaving your home country.

The majority of international students study in-country, which gives you full immersion into a new culture and new people. It’s the best way to make the most of your international studies.

Online learning is still an option for international students. This is often a more cost-effective route, thanks to the lack of travel expenses. Virtual learning also offers a more flexible schedule, making it perfectly suited to students who need studies that work for busy schedules.

The term undergraduate degree refers to your first university degree, such as an associate or bachelor's degree. You often need to have completed undergraduate study before postgraduate study.

Bachelor’s

A bachelor’s degree is what people often mean when they talk about an undergraduate degree. These usually last three or four years.

The degree is recognized worldwide, although the process of getting one differs slightly from country to country. Acronyms are determined by the field of study, starting with “B” for Bachelor’s.

• BSc - Bachelor of Science

  A BSc focuses on the scientific analysis of various disciplines. It covers a wide section of subjects within science, such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, and Environmental Sciences. The curriculum has a focus on empirical study, research methodologies, and the application of scientific principles in the real world.

• BBA - Bachelor of Business Administration

  A BBA is tailored to business management and administration. It touches on all aspects of business, including finance, marketing, human resources, operations, and strategic planning. Students who achieve a BBA gain an understanding of business operations, leadership skills, and essential business principles.

Associate

An associate degree can help graduates with entry-level work within certain professions. Associate degrees (also known as foundation degrees) can also offer you a pathway to a bachelor’s degree. They usually last two years full-time, with an extra one or two years to convert the degree to a bachelor’s.

On completion of an associate degree a university can offer study programs to convert it into a bachelor’s. This can ensure that you have the correct level of knowledge before studying for a bachelor’s, increasing your chances of completing the degree to a high standard.

Undergraduate Pathway

This program is designed to facilitate entry into a full undergraduate degree for students who may not meet the direct entry requirements. Acting as a bridge, it offers foundational courses, language training, and academic support. These equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for full progression to university education.

Undergraduate Certificate

An undergraduate certificate program focuses on knowledge and skills in a particular field. Usually shorter than a full degree, they offer targeted learning outcomes and can either complement existing qualifications or serve as standalone credentials.

Undergraduate Diploma

An undergraduate diploma is more extensive than a certificate program but shorter than a full degree. Practical and skill-oriented, they provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge. Diplomas can serve as standalone qualifications to enter the workforce or act as a pathway toward further university education.

Postgraduate degrees are specialist qualifications that help you to become an expert in a particular field of study. They build on the knowledge you’ve already acquired at the undergraduate level, so you’ll normally need a bachelor’s degree to be accepted.

Masters

A master’s degree is a one or two-year program that’s designed to give you an advanced level of knowledge in a specific discipline or professional practice. You can spot a master’s degree thanks to the “M” within the acronyms.

• MBA - Master of Business Administration

  An MBA focuses on business management, leadership, and strategy, covering areas such as finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and entrepreneurship. The focus is on case studies, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving, with special attention paid to analytical thinking and strategic decision-making skills.

• MS - Master of Science

  An MS focuses on scientific disciplines, focused on Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences. There is an emphasis on research, theoretical knowledge, and practical applications within your chosen field.

• LLM - Master of Laws

  An LLM is for law graduates or legal professionals seeking to grow their legal knowledge and expertise. There is often a focus on specific areas of law, such as international law, commercial law, and human rights law. The curriculum explores complex legal theories, case studies, and practical applications, which prepares graduates for careers in legal practice, academia, or policymaking.

Doctorate

A doctorate is the highest academic qualification available, coming in the form of a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy). The goal of a PhD is to contribute to your subject area with new and original research, which you’ll compile in a thesis. Due to the extensive training on offer, they usually last four to eight years.

• PhD - Doctor of Philosophy

  A PhD isn't limited to philosophy but encompasses many disciplines, including sciences, humanities, engineering, social sciences, and more. As an advanced research-based program, graduates will have conducted research and contributed directly to their field. As part of their qualification, they will produce a dissertation or thesis.

Postgraduate Pathway

The postgraduate pathway is aimed at entry into a full postgraduate degree for individuals who may not meet the direct entry criteria. It is particularly popular with international students or professionals transitioning from different academic backgrounds, as it bridges gaps between studies and qualifications.

Postgraduate Certificate

The postgraduate certificate program hones specific expertise within a particular field. It is shorter than a full degree and complements existing qualifications. Postgraduate certificates encourage individuals to advance their careers or transition to new professions such as finance, sustainability, leadership, or technology.

Postgraduate Diploma

The postgraduate diploma is more extensive than a certificate program but still shorter than a full degree. It focuses on practical and hands-on education, emphasizing practical skills. Postgraduate diplomas act as standalone qualifications or become a stepping stone for further academic ventures.