Postgraduate
/ˌpəʊstˈɡrædʒuət/
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to a course of study undertaken after a first degree at a university or college.
/ˌpəʊstˈɡrædʒuət/
Relating to studies done after a first degree
She applied for postgraduate programs in several universities.
💡 Simply: Imagine you've finished college! Postgraduate stuff is like going back for more school to learn even cooler things. It's for people who want to be super-smart in a specific area, like becoming a doctor or a scientist after getting their regular degree.
👶 For kids: When you're a grown-up and you went to college, postgraduate is going to school again for more learning!
More Examples
The university offers a wide range of postgraduate courses.
He is a postgraduate student at the University of Oxford.
How It's Used
"Postgraduate studies are often required for specialized careers."
"She is pursuing a postgraduate degree in astrophysics."
A person who has a postgraduate degree or who is studying for a more advanced degree.
/ˌpəʊstˈɡrædʒuət/
A person who has a postgraduate degree or is studying for one.
The postgraduates presented their research findings.
💡 Simply: This is a person who is doing that extra school thing after they have their first degree, like a master's or a Ph.D.
👶 For kids: A grown-up who's going to school again after going to regular college.
More Examples
The university provides support services for its postgraduates.
Many postgraduates struggle financially.
How It's Used
"Many postgraduates are pursuing research careers."
"The university has a large population of postgraduates."
From post- (after) + graduate, reflecting studies pursued after obtaining a bachelor's degree.
The term 'postgraduate' emerged in the late 19th century as universities began to offer advanced degrees beyond the bachelor's level.
Memory tip
Think of 'post' as 'after'. It is study *after* your graduation.
Word Origin
"after completion of a degree"