Why do postgrad study?

In an ever-changing world, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure that your skills are up-to-date. Whether it is a promotion that you’re after, a career change, or maybe just returning to the workforce after taking some time off – postgraduate studies can give you the competitive advantage that you need!

As our economy moves into the post-COVID recovery stage, we’re experiencing various emerging trends, such as the Great Reshuffle. The higher rate at which people are taking up new jobs is resulting in fiercer competition for people across the board.

Often, postgraduate study is confused with research related programs, such as PhDs. However, this is not the only option - the growing demand for ongoing personal and professional development has been met with coursework-based Masters programs, and the shorter Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas. You can choose between studying full-time or part-time, online or face-to-face1, and decide whether you want to enrol into a specialised study program, or just expand your horizons with generic study options.

The study load of these programs is often flexible, and can be moulded to suit your specific needs – no matter if you’re a working professional, a full-time student, or someone who is trying to juggle family commitments whilst wanting to upskill.

Here at the University of Newcastle, we understand your needs, and offer flexible study options to best accommodate your situation. Students can benefit from the following, whilst completing their studies or upon graduating with their postgraduate qualifications.

Career progression

With increased competition in the workplace, you need skills that give you the competitive edge to land the long-awaited promotion! University of Newcastle boasts a 93%+ postgraduate employment rate2, that is above national average!

Career change

With the availability of shorter programs, postgraduate study can be a cost and time effective way to implement a career change. With over 85 postgraduate degrees available, you’re sure to find the right degree that bridges you to your new career.

Flexible study options

Postgraduate degrees at the University of Newcastle are offered full-time or part-time, meaning that you decide how much time you wish to invest into your studies, while still managing your daily commitments. We also offer online study options in many of our degrees, giving you the flexibility that you need.

Increased annual earnings

Why settle for less? The median salary of postgraduate coursework graduates is $89.7k, which is roughly $29k more than undergraduate bachelor degree holders3. In comparison, the median salary of our postgraduates is $98.8k4, which is well above national average.

Connection to industry

We’re ranked No. 1 in Australia for industry collaboration5. By choosing to study at the University of Newcastle, you can take full advantage of our industry partnerships, and grow your network while you study so you can progress your career when you graduate!

Fees and Costs

  • Applying directly to the University of Newcastle is completely free of cost6
  • Eligible domestic students can start now and pay later through the FEE-HELP loan scheme7, where you pay an ATO approved percentage of your wage once you meet the minimum repayment requirements (just like with HECS for undergraduate degrees)
  • Don’t forget to let your employer know about your FEE-HELP loan so they take out more tax each pay to cover the cost to avoid a hefty bill come tax time.

Do what's important to you. Now is the time.

Find out more and apply for postgraduate study


1 Not all modes of study are available for every program.
2 Overall Employment - postgraduate coursework - Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019 - 2021
3 Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021
4 Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019 - 2021
5 Innovation Connections IC Report 2014 - 2020
6 A fee is only required if applying for the Master of Clinical Psychology and Master of Professional Psychology through the University Admissions Centre (UAC).
7 This does not cover accommodation and other general living expenses.