Why it’s time to invest in postgraduate study

As industries change, postgraduate courses can help you expand your options. Think of it as an investment in your future.

The world can be unpredictable. It’s normal for many of us to wonder what the future holds for our career goals. Here’s why now is the perfect time to take the next step in your career path with further study. 

Your dream job won’t wait

If you want to follow a field you love or increase your earning potential, gaining specialised skills can help you stand out. This is important in today’s competitive job market. There are so many ways to enhance your skills and knowledge. 

Choosing the right postgraduate degree starts with understanding your goals. In a world that’s constantly evolving, staying in place could mean falling behind. As industries transform, postgraduate study provides the skills and knowledge you need to stay ahead—far beyond what work experience alone can offer.

Your dream job won’t wait. Stay proactive, keep learning, and prepare yourself when opportunity knocks.

Change is the only certainty

Postgraduate study helps you expand your thinking. It opens you up to different perspectives and new passions. These are great ways to prepare for change.

You could say that higher education is designed for a changing world. Every student wants to change their future.  

We’re here to empower you with the knowledge and expertise to thrive and grow, no matter the challenges you face. Our researchers plan for the future of work. They make sure our degrees have flexible specialisations in the course structure. This allows you to explore your options by providing the know-how to change your career, industry and path in an ever-changing world.  

You’ll gain the hands-on experience you need to build a career through UNSW’s Work Integrated Learning, opens in a new window (WIL) and UNSW Employability, opens in a new window services. 

Plus, you'll be given access to a career coach with industry connections and real-world experience. They will help guide you through your transition from university to your first job after studying. Find out more about our UNSW Employability, opens in a new window services.

Why UNSW?

UNSW helps you create a schedule that works for you. You will get support from teachers, fellow-students and the larger UNSW community. We're here to guide you through this changing world by offering a flexible environment and all the support services you may need.

UNSW offers many of its postgraduate programs online. Unlike most undergraduate degrees, some programs combine intensive blocks or evening classes with online learning. It could be helpful to talk to your employer about work arrangements and financing study options. Most companies are willing to offer flexible hours, helping you to fit further study into your full-time job.

As a postgraduate student, you can choose to study full-time or part-time. You can also defer your program for up to two years.

Our trimester model changes the traditional university calendar. It lets you complete more courses in the same time. You can also study fewer courses each term if you are balancing study with a full-time job.

If a master’s course feels like too much for you, consider a graduate diploma or graduate certificate. These options require less time to complete as they involve shorter coursework and they often have lower entry requirements. They also allow you to progress into a master’s degree later and receive credit for the time you've studied if you want to continue your postgraduate education.

And the costs? We’re here to help

UNSW graduates are ranked #1 in Australia for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings, 2025) and in 2023, our graduates earn the highest median salaries among graduates from the Group of Eight universities (QILT Graduate Outcomes Survey, medium-term - three years after graduating, 2023).

While postgraduate study is an investment, it’s important to be financially prepared in the short term. We may not be able to give you personal financial advice, but we can guide you to services that can help. Here are a few options: 

• Government support: Domestic postgraduate students may be eligible for support with their tuition fees and expenses through HECS-HELP, opens in a new window or FEE-HELP, opens in a new window loans, or Centrelink, opens in a new window. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs), opens in a new window could also be a good option for you, offering subsidised placements through this government programs. You can learn more about CSPs here.  

• Employer support: Ask your current job about whether they offer sponsorship, study leave, or flexible working arrangements.  

• Claim on your tax return: If you’re undertaking study for professional development, you may be able to claim some expenses in your tax return. Find out more through the Australian Taxation Office. 

• Scholarships: UNSW offers several scholarships and awards to postgraduate students.