Should I study postgraduate after my bachelor’s degree?

Postgraduate studies can seem daunting, especially for undergraduates. They delve into specialised fields, often requiring intensive studying, thesis writing and time commitment (all the while trying to juggle this with a potential full-time job).

As a current student studying a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism and Social and Political Sciences) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), I recently attended the Postgraduate info night to answer the age-old question of “What’s next?”

Dr Jordan Nguyen delivered an inspiring keynote unpacking how postgraduate study helped him become the person he is today – a leading Australian engineer, inventor, and innovator. He developed a mind-controlled wheelchair to help improve the lives of those living with physical disabilities and his postgraduate degree helped pivot his career forward in a multitude of ways.

He was thereafter joined by Associate Professor Ramona Vijeyarasa, Caitlin Tanaka and Emma Lucas from the UTS community in a motivating panel discussion. They shared insights into their postgraduate study experience, from gaining practical industry-relevant skills to overcoming imposter syndrome and pursuing their passions.

In a one-on-one discussion with them, I asked why undergraduate students must consider a postgraduate degree. Together they articulated the many possibilities awaiting undergraduate students.

1. Explore new pathways

Graduating with an undergraduate degree can still get you a full-time role, but you might want to ask yourself, “Should I expand my skill set for my longer-term goals?”

When Caitlin started thinking about studying postgraduate, she asked herself, “What is my long-term goal? Not just the stuff I want to achieve now, but how could my skills progress my career and positively impact others?”

Studying the Master of Business Administration (Entrepreneurship) provided her with a new vision and opened new career pathways she had not considered previously.

2. Future-proof your career

“There were significant redundancies during COVID-19, that reminded people of the need to continue to upskill and strengthen their qualifications through postgraduate studies.”

For Ramona, the pandemic was a reminder for people to contemplate postgraduate studies to either leverage existing experience or shift and explore something new.

Having completed a Master’s degree and a PhD, she believes a postgraduate degree helps to future-proof and accelerate career progression.

3. Confidently make a career pivot

“Think about what you’re passionate and curious about.”

Emma completed an undergraduate communication degree in Social Political Science and Public Relations from UTS. She then decided to follow her passion with helping others and completed a Master of Speech Pathology. 

Having a postgraduate degree means she can now envision a lifelong career in the field of speech pathology as there are so many different possibilities to jump into. 

“I can work with kids, or maybe do language or speech or voice elements, the pathways are endless.” It was her curiosity and passion that led her to pursue postgraduate study.

A postgraduate degree really sets you up for success

Attending the event provided invaluable insight into the potential opportunities available through postgraduate studies. These programs offer advanced knowledge, career opportunities, and deeper expertise in specific areas of study; all unique benefits to further your career and academic journey.

I learnt that it’s important to challenge yourself and not to stay in your comfort zone. Also, pursuing a postgraduate degree should not be about adding another highlight to your resume, rather it should contribute to your own personal growth, fuel your passion and help you make a positive impact on society.

My Dad completed two postgraduate degrees after his first bachelor’s, and maybe, I have found the inspiration to follow in his footsteps.

Written by Lucas Tan, currently studying a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism and Social and Political Sciences) at UTS.