Difference between a master’s degree and a postgraduate degree: complete guide for students

Choosing what to study after completing a university degree is not always easy. Many students wonder what the difference is between a master’s degree and a postgraduate degree, which option suits them best, or what impact each choice may have on their academic and professional future.

In this complete guide, we explain clearly and up to date what the differences are between a master’s degree and a postgraduate degree, how long they last, what requirements they have, what recognition you will obtain, and which option may be best according to your goals.

The main difference is that a master’s degree is a type of postgraduate degree, but with a higher academic level, more training hours, and a more complete official or university-specific recognition.

A master’s degree offers advanced and specialized training, with longer duration, higher demands, and in many cases, a research component or mandatory internships. A postgraduate degree, on the other hand, is shorter and more specific, aimed at expanding knowledge in a particular area in a practical and flexible way.

Both options are taken after completing a university degree, but they don’t have the same academic level or the same purpose.

One of the most well-known differences between a master’s degree and a postgraduate degree is related to study load.

• Master’s degree:
  • Duration: 1 to 2 years
  • Credits: 60 to 120 ECTS
  • Includes a Master’s Thesis (TFM)
• Postgraduate degree:
  • Duration: 3 to 6 months
  • Credits: 15 to 40 ECTS
  • Usually does not include a long final project

If you want to delve deeply into your specialty, a master’s degree is the right option. If, instead, you prefer fast training without such a long commitment, a postgraduate degree is ideal.

And if you want to better understand how university credits work, you can read our article on what are university credits.

A master’s degree involves more theoretical load, a higher level of specialization, and the requirement to complete a Master’s Thesis, as well as internships in many cases.

A postgraduate degree has a more practical and direct approach, with a lower level of difficulty and without the need to dedicate so many hours to studying.

Here we find another important difference between a postgraduate degree and a master’s degree:

• To access a master’s degree:
  A university degree (or equivalent) is required.
• To access a postgraduate degree:
  A university degree is not always necessary; in some cases, proven professional experience or sufficient competencies are enough.

In other words, postgraduate degrees are more accessible and flexible for students and professionals.

Master’s degrees generally have a higher cost because they involve:

• More study hours
• More credits
• More academic resources
• And (in many cases) external internships.

Postgraduate degrees are a more affordable option, ideal for those with a tighter budget.

• Official master’s degree: valid throughout the European Union, allows access to a PhD.
• University-specific master’s degree: high professional and academic recognition.
• Postgraduate degree: academic recognition, but more oriented toward practical professional development.

If you want to pursue a PhD, you need an official master’s degree.

It will depend on your personal situation, your available time, your professional goals, and your budget.

• You want to reach the highest academic level after your degree.
• You need deep specialization.
• You aim to do research or complete a PhD.
• You want to apply for higher-responsibility positions.
• You want mandatory professional internships.

• You want fast, practical specialization.
• You cannot commit to one or two years of study.
• You are currently working and need flexibility.
• You want to improve your professional profile without a large investment.
• You are not yet sure whether you want to pursue a master’s degree.

If you are considering continuing your studies, you may be interested in learning more about the options for studying a master’s degree or postgraduate programs in Barcelona, where you will find one of the broadest academic offerings in the country.

In today’s job market, both master’s degrees and postgraduate degrees are valued, but companies do not look only at the title. What they value most is how that training has prepared you to contribute from day one.

Beyond the program name, recruiters usually focus on:

• The real specialization provided by the master’s or postgraduate degree and how it fits the role’s needs.
• The candidate’s practical ability — whether they have acquired skills that can be applied in the workplace.
• The prestige and quality of the institution offering the training, whether a university or a renowned business school.

The student’s previous experience, which often weighs more than the number of credits completed.

In summary, companies look for profiles capable of combining advanced training with practical skills. For this reason, both master’s and postgraduate degrees can be a good choice if they align with your professional objectives.

Barcelona and Catalonia are among the favorite destinations for master’s and postgraduate students due to their wide university offering:

• Universitat de Barcelona (UB)
• Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
• Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)
• Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)
• Universitat de Girona (UdG)
• UManresa 

If you’re planning to come and study, it’s important to find safe, well-connected accommodation designed for students.

You can also check our post with the 2025–2026 academic calendar.

At Unihabit, we offer student residences in:

• University residences Barcelona
• University residence Barcelona Gracia
• University residence Sant Cugat
• University residence Girona
• Manresa residence hall

Our residences are designed for master’s and postgraduate students who are looking for:

• Single or double rooms
• Quiet spaces for studying
• Common areas for socializing
• Strategic locations close to campus and public transport
• An international community
• Activities and services that make daily life easier

If you are coming to Barcelona, Girona, Manresa or Sant Cugat to study a master’s or postgraduate degree, you may be interested in learning about our residences for master’s and PhD students

The difference between a master’s degree and a postgraduate degree is clear: the master’s offers a higher academic level, longer duration, and greater recognition; the postgraduate degree is perfect for those who want fast, practical specialization.

In both cases, choosing where to live during your studies is essential for ensuring a comfortable, productive, and enriching experience. At Unihabit, we will be delighted to accompany you during this new stage.