Wondering if you should keep studying?
From building up employable skills to standing out in the crowd amongst a sea of other worthy candidates, there are so many reasons to jump on the postgrad train. Below we round up seven competitive advantages of postgrad study.
1. You could earn more money
Taking that extra time to gain more qualifications really pays off. According to the 2023 Graduate Outcomes Survey, the median salary of postgraduate coursework graduates is $96.6k, which is around $25.6k more than those with undergraduate bachelor degrees.
2. You gain lots of transferrable skills
Postgrad study can really prepare you for the demands of the workforce, and equips you in areas that are beneficial in a whole host of industries. This includes sharpening soft skills like leadership, communication, critical thinking and teamwork.
3. You’ll develop more connections
One of the overlooked competitive advantages of postgrad study is the fact that it’s great for growing your professional network. Universities can connect you to industry, leading to career opportunities you may not have been exposed to elsewhere. You also do a lot of networking with your fellow students, who will some day turn into future co-workers or be handy to know in your line of work.
4. You get to explore your passion
Deep diving into a subject or speciality you’re interested in can make you an expert in that field – plus, it’s always a lot of fun to learn more about things you like.
5. You’ll be in-demand with STEM employers
Things change quickly in STEM and new jobs are created all the time. Postgrad study can keep your knowledge up-to-date, and also gives you the opportunity to grab last minute skills that are relevant to the industry or career you’d like to end up in before you say goodbye to uni.
6. You can change career direction
Changed your mind about your future career but nearing the end of a bachelor degree? Or already working but would like to jump into a different area? Shorter programs, like graduate certificates and diplomas, are perfect if you’re thinking of trying something new and want to get their as fast as possible.
7. You’ll stand out amongst other candidates
Yep, postgrad study looks good on the CV but also sets you apart as you’ll have a more tailored skillset and knowledge base than candidates who didn’t pursue it. Feel free to talk up all the amazing things you learnt in postgrad study and how that specialist knowledge can really help your future employer!
Types of postgrad study
If the competitive advantages of postgrad study has got you thinking about your options, here they are:
- Honours
- Graduate certificate
- Graduate diploma
- Postgraduate diploma
- Masters
- PhD
Download postgrad course guides
Click here to see the whole range and to choose your downloads.
Learn more about postgrad study and graduate options
Want more? Sign up to the Careers with STEM Graduate Options e-newsletter.
One Response
Specializing through postgrad study allows for deeper exploration of one’s passion and interests