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Choose between a PGCert, PGDip, and a Master's Degree in International Relations when you study at QMUL Online
If you are considering pursuing a postgraduate qualification in international relations, then you are likely ready for or already in the midst of a globally-minded, influential career. When it comes to choosing a university programme, however, aligning your ambitions with an educational plan can be challenging, especially when there are so many options available to you.
QMUL Online offers students the choice of pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or Master’s Degree in International Relations. Keep reading to learn about the key differences between each qualification, as well as which factors are most important to consider when choosing between them.
Should You Pursue an Online International Relations PGDip or PGCert?
Both a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) and Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) course provide students with masters-level material through a short taught course. Unlike a Master’s Degree, neither a PGDip nor a PGCert require you to write a dissertation. Instead, your qualifications are earned based on the assessment of your coursework.
The key difference between a PGDip and PGCert is the length of the course. At QMUL Online, the online Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations covers four modules through part-time study over the course of two academic years, while the PGCert covers two modules over the course of one academic year.
Benefits of Opting for a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations
For students who want a comprehensive education in international relations – perhaps to get a foothold in the workforce or to pursue a career that requires a broad knowledge base – the online PGDip may be the best choice. The required modules cover everything from contemporary political themes and theory to international security and conflict, US foreign policy, and the interaction between globalisation and political economy, giving students an excellent understanding of key issues on the world stage.
Why Choose an International Relations Postgraduate Certificate?
For an individual who wants to complete their training as quickly as possible, or who has a more specific area of interest within the realm of international relations, the online PGCert course could be a better fit. Not only is the PGCert half the length of the PGDip course, but it also allows students to choose one of the two modules that will be studied. This means you can tailor your course to your career needs, ultimately making it a more efficient method for reaching your goals.
Pursuing a PGCert in International Relations can help you quickly take the next step in your career
When to Pursue a Master’s Instead of an International Relations Postgraduate Diploma
A Master’s Degree is an ideal option for individuals who wish to pursue research-related work, or who want to supplement their international relations careers with a substantial written contribution to the field. QMUL Online’ Masters Degree covers the same comprehensive taught modules as the International Relations Postgraduate Diploma, with the additional requirement of completing a 12,000 word dissertation during the two year part-time course.
There are a number of reasons for a student to pursue a course that requires a dissertation. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in International Relations or a closely related field, a Master’s Degree and demonstrated research skills are often required of successful applicants.
You may also pursue a Master’s Degree if you are passionate about a specific topic and want to do in-depth study in the area. Even outside of academia, this accomplishment can help you demonstrate your specialised knowledge to employers and showcase your research and writing prowess for positions that require these skills.
A Master’s Degree with QMUL Online is a great choice for the research-oriented student
Regardless of which course type you choose, pursuing online postgraduate International Relations qualifications at QMUL Online is a step that can benefit you and your career for years to come.
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