Bachelor vs master’s degree: What is the difference
Making sure you’re sitting in the right classroom is the first step to success at university.
Higher education qualifications are structured in distinct tiers to match where you are in your learning journey.
What is a bachelor’s degree?
A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate qualification. It’s the most common and most comprehensive degree you can enrol in at the undergraduate level. If you’ve just finished high school or are starting university for the first time, you’re most likely looking at enrolling in an undergraduate degree like a bachelor’s.
Bachelor’s degrees are typically classified as Level 7 under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Bachelor’s programs usually take 3 to 4 years of full-time study to complete but check your specific course details for the estimated completion time. For most courses with us, entry requirements involve holding a valid Year 12 certificate or an equivalent VET qualification.
If you want to build foundational knowledge and essential professional skills in a specific field, a Bachelor’s program is for you. Upon graduation, you're prepared for entry-level roles in your chosen field of study. It’s the most common starting point if you’re looking to enter a regulated profession or gain a competitive edge in the job market.
What is a master’s degree?
A master’s degree is a postgraduate qualification. To study a master’s degree, you generally need to have already completed a bachelor’s degree, though some programs consider applicants without formal qualifications if they have extensive professional experience.
This program sits at the AQF Level 9. If you want to know how long a master’s program is, they typically last between 1 and 2 years if studied full-time, depending on whether you choose a coursework or research-focused path.
Master’s degrees are specifically designed for those who want to build specialised knowledge and advance their career into leadership or expert roles. Postgraduate degrees with us focuses on practical, hands-on learning that helps you answer society’s pressing questions through advanced research or industry-led projects.
The key differences between bachelor’s and master’s degrees
| Feature | Bachelor's degree (undergraduate) | Master's degree (postgraduate) |
|---|---|---|
| AQF level | Level 7 | Level 9 |
| Typical duration | 3 - 4 years full-time | 1 - 2 years full-time |
| Entry requirements | High school completion or equivalent | Completion of a bachelor's degree or significant professional experience |
Bachelor’s and master’s degrees are not your only options. If you need a shorter commitment, consider a diploma or a graduate certificate. If you’re ready to push yourself further, a Higher Degree by Research is worth exploring.
Discover the different types of university degree levels >
Which degree is right for you?
Deciding on your next step depends on your personal goals and current circumstances:
- Career goals: If you’re entering a new industry, a bachelor’s degree gives you the solid foundation you need. If you want to build on your experience to pivot into a niche area or secure a promotion, a master’s degree is often the way forward.
- Time commitment: Bachelor’s degrees require a longer time investment. Master’s programs are shorter but more intense, focusing deeply on specific subjects.
- Cost: Generally, a master’s degree carries a higher cost per subject, reflecting its advanced nature.
- Experience level: If you have been in the workforce for years, you might find a master’s degree more engaging as it builds upon what you already know. If you are pivoting into a completely new field and need to build a base knowledge, a bachelor’s degree may be more suited to you.
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