Undergraduate vs Graduate Studies: Key Differences, Benefits & Career Impact

If you are planning to study abroad, being aware of differences in the terminology of degrees is crucial to distinguish international universities from Indian institutions. What we call a bachelor’s (graduate) degree in India is termed an undergraduate degree in many countries globally.

Similarly, the term master’s (postgraduate) degree in India is known as a graduate degree across most universities worldwide.  Before enrolling in an undergraduate vs graduate study program, understanding these terms for clarity is necessary. They imply the level of education, and for study abroad aspirants, it’s important to know what these terms mean and how they are different. Read on to understand the difference and career paths after each degree, among others.

Define Undergraduate vs Graduate Degrees

Undergraduate and graduate degrees represent different levels of higher education. While undergraduate programs (like bachelor’s degrees) lay the academic foundation, graduate programs (like master’s or MBA degrees) offer advanced, specialized knowledge in a chosen field.

Undergraduate Degree:

An undergraduate degree, often referred to as a bachelor’s degree, is the first level of higher education after 10+2 offered by colleges and universities. These degrees may take 3-4 years to complete, depending on the course and the institution or the country/location of the university.

For example, an ‘undergraduate’ is a college or university student who has yet to receive a bachelor’s degree. They are pursuing an undergraduate degree program.

Common Types:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Example: Bachelor of Arts in English, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, etc.

• Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Example: Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Science in Computers, etc.

• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

Example: Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting

• Bachelor of Engineering (BE/B.Tech)

Example: Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science, BTech in Mechanical Engineering. Etc.

Purpose:

• Build a foundation in a specific field
• Prepare for entry-level careers or further studies

Graduate Degree:

A ‘graduate’ is a person with a degree or diploma in hand. Generally, a graduate degree refers to a degree that can be pursued after earning an undergraduate or bachelor’s degree. So, a graduate student is someone who is studying for a higher or advanced degree after finishing their bachelor’s program. Master’s degrees take 1-2 years to complete, depending on the course and the institution or the country/location of the university.

Common Types:

• Master’s Degrees (MA, MSc, MBA, M.Tech)

Examples: Master of Arts in Economics, Master of Commerce in Accountancy. Master of Business Administration in HR, Master's in Computer Science, etc.

• Doctoral Degrees (PhD) (These degrees may take 3-6 years to complete) 

Example: PhD in Physics

Purpose:

• Gain advanced knowledge and specialized skills
• Qualify for senior roles, research, or teaching positions

Key Differences: Undergraduate vs Graduate

Undergraduate and graduate programs are different in how you learn, what you expect, and how much time these programs take. To understand the real difference between undergraduate vs. graduate degrees, you need to explore some specific factors.

Features	Undergraduate (UG)	Graduate (Grad/PG)
Also Known As	Graduate or Bachelor’s degree	Master’s or Postgraduate degree
Who can Pursue	After completing 10+2	After completing a bachelor’s degree
Degree Type	BA, BSc, BBA, BTech	MA, MSc, MBA, MTech
Focus Area (Course)	These are foundation courses	These are specialized courses
Duration	3-4 years	1-2 years
Cost	Generally lower than graduate courses	Generally higher than undergraduate courses
Result/Outcome of the Program	Can apply for entry-level jobs or further studies	Can apply for advanced roles with higher pay
Experience Required	Not Required	Some courses might ask for experience, such as an MBA

Let’s understand some factors in detail:

1. Course

In terms of coursework, undergraduate and graduate programs vary. Undergraduate is the first step for students to explore the world of higher education, just after secondary school. Here, students study several general subjects and foundation courses along with the major subject.

On the other hand, graduate courses are specific and cater to highly specialized fields, which help students gain specific knowledge in a particular subject and help them master the subject.

2. Program Flexibility

Undergraduate programs allow flexibility in terms of switching your major or transferring to a different college during the program tenure. This is because many undergraduate programs have similar structures, which allows students the option to switch institutions or their major subject.

Alternatively, in graduate degrees, changing your course or university can be challenging. Since most master’s programs last just 1–2 years, any changes should ideally be made in the first semester to avoid losing time or credits.

3. Learning Style

Undergraduate studies usually involve lectures, group discussions, and practical assignments, with a focus on building a broad understanding of different subjects.

Graduate programs are more focused and in-depth. They often include research work, seminars, and theoretical learning, with students expected to study more independently.

4. Research Experience

Research is useful in almost every career because it helps you think clearly, solve problems, and apply what you learn. In undergraduate programs, research is limited to a few projects or papers. However, in graduate school, it becomes a huge part of your learning where you use advanced tools, work closely with professors, and even explore various research areas as part of the program.

5. Time Commitment

Undergraduate programs usually follow a fixed schedule with set courses for each semester and are usually completed in 3–4 years.

Graduate programs like master's degree courses can be completed in 1-2 years, while a Ph.D. can take more time, around 3-6 years, as it involves deep research and a dissertation.

Undergraduate vs Graduate Degree: Admission Requirements

Here are some key admissions requirements to note if you are aspiring to study abroad in the top universities for your undergraduate vs graduate degree:

Specification	Undergraduate	Graduate
Academic Qualification	10+2 or equivalent scores (minimum score should be as per the course requirement)	Bachelor’s degree or equivalent degree (minimum scores vary as per university)
Standardized Tests	SAT / ACT, etc.	GRE/GMAT, etc.
Score Requirements	CGPA/Percentage	GPA
English Proficiency	TOEFL / IELTS/Duolingo, etc.	TOEFL / IELTS / PTE, etc.
Course Selection	Based on aims and interests	Based on your bachelor’s degree subjects or a related degree
Letters of Recommendations (LORs)	1–2 is expected from school teachers or counselors	2–3 LORs are expected from university professors or employers
Statement of Purpose (SOPs)	Required on goals, interests, and why you chose the course/university	A detailed SOP is needed, highlighting academic background, work experience (if any), career goals, and others
Resume/ CV Required	Not always required	Mandatory (with details on education, internship, project works, experience, etc.)
Portfolio Required	A basic portfolio, as per the program, can be requested for	An advanced portfolio showcasing work, projects, etc., can be requested
Interview	Not always required	Commonly required
Work Experience	Not Required	Often asked for (especially for MBA, MS programs)
Achievements	Can add value for admissions	Can add value (if relevant)

Steps to an Undergraduate Application Process for Study Abroad

Step 1: Research Programs and Shortlist Universities

Step 2: Take Standardized Tests

Step 3: Prepare Academic Documents

Step 4: Write Personal Statement / Essays

Step 5: Collect Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

Step 6: Build a Strong Resume (if required)

Step 7: Submit Application

Step 8: Attend Interviews (if applicable)

Step 9: Await Results and Accept Offer

Tips to Consider While Applying for an Undergrad Program Abroad

• Use tools or individual university websites to compare courses.
• Check for the tests in your preferred universities. Start preparing for the tests at least 6 months in advance.
• Make sure all documents are translated and verified
• Be authentic in writing SOPs as per the university or program requirements
• Allow time for recommendation letters to those who are recommending you
• Track deadlines 
• Practice common questions
• Check scholarship programs

Steps to a Graduate Application Process for Study Abroad

Step 1: Choose the program/specialization or study abroad destination as per your career goals

Step 2:  Prepare for Entrance Exams 

Step 3: Arrange Academic Transcripts

Step 4: Write a Statement of Purpose (SOPs for master’s)

Step 5: Get Letters of Recommendation

Step 6: Create an Impressive Resume/CV

Step 7: Apply to your Preferred Universities

Step 8: Submit Research Proposal

Step 9: Take the Interview/Admission Test

Step 10: Once you get the offer, apply for Scholarships and a Student Visa

Tips to Consider While Applying for a Grad Program Abroad

• Focus on career relevance in the long-term, course structure, and post-study work opportunities
• Take mock tests. Check early for GRE/GMAT requirements
• Get academic transcripts scanned and ready in advance
•  Avoid writing generic SOPs. Be specific about the passion and purpose of doing the course
• Get recommendations from people whom you know well
• Highlight specific achievements in your resume
• Shortlist 6–8 universities to apply to
• Prepare sample Qs for interviews
• Arrange documents for early visa processing

How Do Undergraduate Vs Graduate Degrees Impact Career Opportunities And Outcomes?

Take a look at the table below for a clear understanding of how undergraduate and graduate degrees impact career opportunities and outcomes:

Specifications	Undergraduate	Graduate
Job Opportunities	Opens doors to entry-level positions Good for starting careers in fields like business, IT, marketing, teaching, etc. More general skills and knowledge	Qualifies you for specialized or senior roles Often required for careers in research, academia, medicine, law, and leadership positions Shows advanced expertise and commitment
Earning Potential	Provides a solid income base Salary grows with experience and upskilling	Often leads to higher-paying jobs May increase promotion chances or fast-track career growth
Career Growth	Slower growth without further education or certifications Great for exploring different fields before specializing	Faster growth in a specific career path Needed for management, R&D, or expert roles
Industry Preference	Technology and IT Retail and Sales Media and Entertainment Hospitality and Tourism Startups and Entrepreneurship Construction and Skilled Trades	Healthcare Law Academia and Education Engineering Finance and Consulting Public sector AI and Data Science
Job Roles	Marketing Executive Digital Marketer Business Analysts Engineer UX/UI Designer	Data Scientist Management Consultant Software Architect AI Engineer Healthcare Manager Professor/Researcher
Salaries	As per ambitionBox, undergraduate salaries in India can range between ₹0.1 Lakh - ₹15 Lakhs with an average salary of ₹1.8 Lakh (with 0-4 years of experience)	Graduate (Master’s) salary in India can range between ₹0.4 Lakh - ₹18 Lakhs per annum, as per AmbitionBox, with an average salary of ₹11 Lakhs (with 0-5 years of experience)

Source: AmbitionBox

How upGrad Can Help You Choose the Right Undergraduate Vs Graduate Program?

Undergraduate and graduate education are both important, with different focuses. Undergraduate programs build a strong foundation, while graduate programs go deeper into a specific field. Choosing between them depends on your goals, interests, and career plans.

upGrad can guide study abroad aspirants in choosing the right course, the university, as well as the preferred country to pursue an undergraduate vs a graduate program. Candidates can also apply for undergraduate vs graduate courses offered by upGrad for study abroad aspirants. They also guide aspirants to prepare for the top university admissions across the USA, the UK, Australia, Europe, etc., to make it easier for them to explore and pick the right career of their choice.