Difference Between UG and PG: Every Student Should Know Before Enrolling

Updated: 15 July 2025, 12:37 pm IST

Ever wondered how your choice between an undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) degree could shape your future? With India’s higher education system now serving over 43.3 million students in 2023-24, making the right decision is more important than ever.

Did you know that nearly 79% of these students are enrolled in UG courses, while just 12% pursue PG degrees? As the competition heats up and employers look for specialised skills, understanding the real difference between UG and PG could be your ticket to a brighter career.

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What is UG?

It stands for the undergraduate program, which is a 6-level qualification. In India, 79% of all higher education students are enrolled in UG programs like BBA, BA, BCA, BCom, etc. It is a common route for young students because it is the first level of education after passing out of higher secondary. Clearing these levels will grant you an undergraduate degree showcasing your specialisation in a field of interest.

Earning a bachelor’s degree unveils multiple options, whether you want to extend your education or build a career in that industry. In addition, you can obtain various disciplines under a bachelor’s degree, namely: commerce, humanities, science, engineering, and more.

What is PG?

In the educational field, it is considered the second level of educational qualification after obtaining a bachelor's degree. It highlights the difference between UG and PG as they are sequential, and a student has to complete UG to be eligible for PG. However, only about 12% of higher education students in India are enrolled in PG (master’s) programs.

There are multiple post-graduation programs that you can pursue, namely: PG certification, PG Diploma, Master's degree, and Doctorate. Since it is a level 7 qualification, its curriculum is more advanced, which will help you stand out in the competitive market.

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What is the Key Difference Between UG and PG?

The following table highlights the difference between UG and PG:

Key Differences	Under-Graduate Program	Post-Graduate Program
Course Duration	Most undergraduate programs are for 3 years. However, the course length tends to exceed three years under certain curricula such as medicine, engineering and architecture.	A post-graduation course usually takes one to three years to complete. However, a post-graduation diploma can be completed within 6 to 12 months.
Career Prospects	After completing a graduation degree, you can begin pursuing a degree in various fields such as healthcare, information technology, business and management, politics, education and more. India’s Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for higher education rose to 28.4% in 2023-24	Employment options after obtaining a PG degree increase subsequently. Your exposure to research, development and academic specialisation is seen as an added advantage. PG graduates are more likely to secure middle-management jobs
Placement Opportunities	You can start in an entry-level position in your desired job as an analyst or an executive. This position will give you exposure towards practical experience that will be beneficial in the long run.	The organisational position you can apply for after PG programs is a middle-level management role.
Educational Level	UG is the initial level in higher education; it is designed to provide basic concepts and understanding in a specific field. It includes both theoretical and practical knowledge about the subject matter.	Post-graduation typically includes advanced modules such as a master's degree in subject-specific studies. This module covers theoretical coursework, research and practical application of the subject matter.

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Why Opt for a UG and PG course?

The choice of whether to pursue UG and PG courses holds high significance because it shapes your future professional career. Let us further delve into some of the reasons why considering these courses is worthwhile:

Personal Growth

Opting for UG and PG programs after higher secondary enhances your knowledge in your field of interest. It is an avenue that will provide you with a chance to explore new subjects, challenge yourself, and garner necessary skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication.

Specialisation

Experience in a particular subject will leverage your chances of securing a job. Therefore, enrolling in a UG and a PG program will allow you to gain a high level of specialisation in your field of interest, shaping you into the perfect candidate. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to push India’s GER in higher education to 50% by 2035, reflecting a national push for advanced qualifications.

Also Read:- Comparing On-Campus Vs. Online MBA in International Finance

Career Preparation

The curriculum and pedagogy of the programs under UG and PG are designed to instill the required knowledge and understanding about the subject. This knowledge helps prepare you for your desired career paths. The workforce needs applicants with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience. PG graduates are more likely to be promoted to middle-management roles, and the growing equity in higher education is opening doors for underprivileged groups.

Strong Foundation

To get a job in your preferred industry, your basics about the subjects must be top-notch. This is where UG and PG programs offer you an opportunity to build a resilient foundation. Climbing the corporate ladder with the right skill set will be much easier. India’s education system now serves over 26.5 crore school students and 4.33 crore higher education students.

Still unsure which path is right for you? Connect with Amity University Online’s expert counsellors and get personalised guidance to choose the perfect UG or PG course for your goals!

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Final Words

Young aspirants must come forward and contribute to society through their knowledge, research and development. Both UG and PG programs attempt to equip you with these skills. However, while planning your career, keep the difference between UG and PG programs in mind. You can visit the Amity Online website to check the vast array of UG and PG courses to kickstart your further studies.