What is the Difference Between Graduate Diploma and Diploma?

The main difference between a graduate diploma and a diploma lies in the level of study and the entry requirements. Here are the key differences:

1. Level of Study: A graduate diploma is a higher-level qualification that sits above a diploma and a degree but below a master's degree. It is typically taken after completing an undergraduate course. On the other hand, a diploma can be taken at any point after secondary education.
2. Entry Requirements: To pursue a graduate diploma, one generally needs to have previously completed a bachelor's degree in the relevant field or have significant work experience. In contrast, a diploma can be studied right after secondary education without any specific entry requirements.
3. Duration: A diploma is usually of shorter duration than a degree course and covers subjects in a less in-depth manner. A graduate diploma, on the other hand, builds on the knowledge from a graduate certificate and advances your skills further. It takes up to 12 months of full-time study to complete the required units for a graduate diploma.
4. Purpose: A diploma can be used to add a specialization to one's name, which can be helpful in furthering one's career. A graduate diploma, on the other hand, is often undertaken to prove a student's ability to undertake postgraduate study or to gain additional qualifications that allow them to enter a specific field.

In summary, a graduate diploma is a higher-level qualification that typically requires an undergraduate degree for entry, while a diploma can be pursued after secondary education. The graduate diploma builds on previous knowledge and is often used to advance skills or prove ability for postgraduate study, whereas a diploma is more focused on adding specialization to one's career.

Comparative Table: Graduate Diploma vs Diploma

The main difference between a graduate diploma and a diploma lies in the level of the qualification and the time it takes to complete. Here is a table comparing the two:

Both graduate diplomas and diplomas are forms of postgraduate study, but graduate diplomas typically require more time and effort to complete and may cover more advanced or specialized topics. Diplomas, on the other hand, are usually shorter and more focused, providing targeted knowledge and skills in a specific area.