Difference Between UG and PG- Top Courses, Salary (2026)

Author: Aiswarya Raj
Reviewed By:  Amrita Online Editorial Team 

TL;DR: In 2026, the primary difference is the shift from foundational eligibility to industry authority. An Undergraduate (UG) degree (BA, BSc, BTech, MBBS) is a 3–5 year investment that builds the broad professional base needed for entry-level roles. Conversely, a Postgraduate (PG) degree (MA, MSc, MBA, MTech) is a 1–3 year intensive specialization that acts as a strategic lever for career growth, unlocking higher-tier salaries and elite expertise in specific fields.

Choosing the right educational path is crucial for a successful career. This article delves into the distinctions between Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) degrees, explores popular courses in each category, and sheds light on potential career opportunities and salary expectations.This article gives you in a nutshell what exactly UG and PG means.you also get know the UG full form and PG fulfform in a greater level of understanding ,various UG PG courses are also mentioned along with prospective job opportunities and the estimated monthly salary as given in the website.The article answers the most commonly asked question of what is UG degree and also what is PG degree in a wider perspective.a 

What is UG Degree? 

What is UG degree is a major question that every student might have thought abou at the very onset of their career paths.As UG full form stands for Undergraduate degree, often referred to as a Bachelor's degree, is the first level of university education typically pursued after completing high school. UG programs generally last three to four years, depending on the field of study and the institution. These programs provide a broad foundational knowledge in a chosen discipline, equipping students with core skills and essential concepts. Common UG degrees include: 

• Bachelor of Arts (BA): Focuses on liberal arts and social sciences, such as history, literature, or psychology.
• Bachelor of Science (BSc): Emphasizes natural sciences and mathematics, including physics, biology, or computer science.
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Specializes in business and commerce, covering areas like accounting, finance, and marketing.
• Bachelor of Engineering (BE): Offers a technical foundation in engineering disciplines like mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. 

A UG degree means it equips graduates with the necessary skills to enter the workforce in various entry-level positions or to pursue further education through PG programs. 

What is a PG Degree? 

As PG full form stands for Postgraduate degree, often referred to as a Master's degree, is advanced academic study undertaken after completing a UG degree. These programs typically last one to two years, depending on the program and institution. PG programs delve deeper into a specific area within a broader UG discipline, providing specialized knowledge and research skills. Some common PG degrees include: 

• Master of Arts (MA): Offers in-depth study in various arts and social science fields, such as English literature, economics, or sociology.
• Master of Science (MSc): Provides advanced training in specific scientific fields, like computer science, biotechnology, or environmental science.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Focuses on business management and leadership skills, catering to professionals seeking career advancement.
• Master of Technology (MTech): Offers advanced engineering knowledge and expertise in specialized areas like robotics, nanotechnology, or aerospace engineering. 

A PG degree can enhance career prospects by equipping graduates with specialized skills and qualifications sought after by employers in specific industries. In some fields, a PG degree may be a prerequisite for certain job roles or higher-level positions. 

Difference Between UG and PG  

Now that you have understood UG and PG means its high time to know more than UG full form and PG full form.The table given below shows Difference between UG and PG based on all possible parameters with clarity in UG and PG means .The primary distinction between UG and PG degrees lies in their level of study and focus: 

• Level of Study: UG degrees represent the first level of university education, while PG degrees are advanced studies undertaken after a UG degree.
• Focus: UG programs provide a broad foundational knowledge in a discipline, while PG programs offer in-depth study and specialization within a specific area.
• Duration: UG programs typically last three to four years, while PG programs are generally one to two years.
• Entry Requirement: To pursue a( PG full form) post graduate program, a completed UG degree means it can be obtained from a recognized institution is usually mandatory. 

The given below is a table that differentiate between undergraduate degree and postgraduate degree with regard to many parameters.The table gives you a clarity with regard to Difference between UG and PG Courses .the below is UG PG Courses at varios level o study,focus,duration,entry requirement,approach to learning,career etc.These UG PG Courses are given with prospective career options along with an estimated monthly salary. 

List of Top UG and PG Courses in 2026   

Here is the list of job oppurtunkities that are open for both undergraduate and post graduate levels. 

Undergraduate (UG) Programs 

Business and Management: 

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): BBA program provides a broad foundation in business principles, covering areas like accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, and management. Specializations may include international business, entrepreneurship, or information technology management. Amrita Online provides with BBA Online Course that helps you in getting yourself an entry -level positions in various business sectors like marketing associate, financial analyst, or business development representative.
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom): Focuses on commerce and accounting, equipping students with core skills in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, marketing, and business law. Specializations could include accounting and finance, banking and insurance, or marketing management.BCom Online Course provides opportunity to become an accounting assistant, tax consultant, junior financial analyst, or marketing associate positions. 

Computer Science and Information Technology: 

• Bachelor of Science (Computer Science): Provides a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals, including programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and computer architecture. Specializations may include software engineering, artificial intelligence, or cybersecurity.You cab become a Software developer, web developer, IT support specialist, or network administrator roles after this undergraduate course.
• Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA): Emphasizes the application of computer science principles in business and industry. Students learn programming languages, database management, web development, and software development methodologies. BCA Online course enable syou to become a web developer, software tester, application developer, or IT analyst positions.
• Bachelor of Information Technology (BSc IT): Focuses on the use of information technology in various contexts. Students acquire skills in networking, system administration, cloud computing, and data management.you can become a Network administrator, system administrator, IT support specialist, or data analyst roles. 

Engineering: 

• Bachelor of Engineering (BE) or Bachelor of Technology (BTech): Offered in various specializations like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, computer science engineering, electronics and communication engineering, chemical engineering, and more. These programs provide a strong foundation in engineering principles, mathematics, physics, and specific engineering disciplines. You can become a junior engineer roles in various industries based on the chosen specialization (e.g., mechanical engineer, civil engineer, software engineer). 

Healthcare: 

• Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharma): Provides foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences, including drug discovery, formulation, and dispensing.You can become a Pharmacist assistant, drug regulatory affairs associate, or research assistant in pharmaceutical companies.
• Bachelor of Science (Nursing): Equips students with the skills and knowledge to provide nursing care in various healthcare settings.You ca become a  registered Nurse (RN) positions in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. 

Arts and Humanities: 

• Bachelor of Arts (BA): Offered in a wide range of subjects like English literature, history, economics, sociology, psychology, philosophy, and more. These programs provide a broad foundation in the chosen discipline and develop critical thinking, communication, and research skills. You can become a Entry-level positions in various fields depending on the chosen subject (e.g., content writer, teacher, research assistant, or marketing associate). 

Postgraduate (PG) Programs 

Business and Management: 

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): Offers advanced business knowledge and leadership skills, preparing graduates for managerial positions. Specializations can range from finance and marketing to human resource management and international business.Online MBA program opens arena of opportunities like for eaxaple you can become a Management consultant, business analyst, project manager, or marketing manager roles.Amrita online provides you with various specialisations available in online mode .

1. MBA (Elective: General Management): Gain a well-rounded understanding of core business functions like marketing, finance, and operations with Amrita Online MBA in General Management . This versatile option prepares you for leadership roles across various industries.
2. MBA (Elective: Artificial Intelligence): Dive deep into the world of AI and its applications in business with Amrita Online MBA in AI. Learn how to leverage AI for tasks like marketing automation, data analysis, and strategic decision-making.
3. MBA (Elective: International Finance and Accounting): Master the intricacies of global financial markets and accounting practices Amrita Online MBA in International Finance and Accounting. This specialization equips you for success in international business ventures and multinational corporations.
4. MBA (Elective: Marketing): Hone your skills in crafting compelling marketing strategies, understanding consumer behavior, and navigating the ever-evolving marketing landscape Amrita Online MBA in Marketing.
5. MBA (Elective: Finance): Develop a strong foundation in financial analysis, investment management, and risk assessment Amrita Online MBA in Finance. This path prepares you for careers in investment banking, corporate finance, and financial consulting.
6. MBA (Elective: Operations): Optimize business processes and ensure smooth production with a focus on Amrita Online MBA in Operations Management. This specialization equips you to manage supply chains, logistics, and quality control procedures.
7. MBA (Elective: Human Resources): Become an expert in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent Amrita Online MBA in Human Resources. This elective equips you for roles in HR management, employee relations, and talent acquisition.
8. MBA Business Analytics (with Grant Thornton): Leverage data science and predictive modeling with Amrita Online MBA Business Analytics (with Grant Thornton) . This specialization drives strategic business insights and optimizes performance
9. MBA FinTech (with Grant Thornton): Explore the convergence of finance and technology with Amrita Online MBA FinTech (with Grant Thornton). This specialization helps you master topics like blockchain, digital lending, and automated financial systems.
10. MBA ESG (with Grant Thornton): Focus on integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance factors with the Amrita Online MBA ESG (with Grant Thornton) course. This specialization dives into the core business strategies and investment decisions for sustainable growth.
     

• Master of Management Studies (MMS): Similar to an MBA but often with a specific industry focus, like healthcare management or information technology management The career paths are such that you can adorn certain management positions in the chosen industry (e.g., healthcare administrator, IT project manager).
• Master of Human Resource Management (MHRM): Specializes in human resource practices and employee relations, preparing graduates for HR roles in organizations.The career paths are such that you can adorn certain human resource specialist, talent acquisition specialist, or compensation and benefits manager positions.
• Master of Commerce (MCom)-This specialisation teaches students advanced accounting principles, financial analysis, auditing, and tax skills. It trains graduates to work in accounting firms, investment banks, financial institutions, and corporate finance departments.Amrita Online provides you with MCom online degree with elective as Finance and Systems as well.the two electives that we offer are MCOM (Elective: Finance and Systems)  and also MCOM (Elective: International Finance and Accounting- Benchmarked with CPA, USA).For further information regarding these two electives please visit our website. 

Computer Science and Information Technology: 

• Master of Science (Computer Science): Offers advanced study in specific computer science areas, like computer graphics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, or network security.The career paths are such that you can adorn such as a software architect, data scientist, security analyst, or machine learning engineer roles.
• Master of Computer Applications(MCA): 

The MCA Online Program offers a virtual learning experience. You'll access lectures, course materials, and interact with faculty and peers through an online platform. Online MCA provides more flexibility than regular MCA but often involves live online sessions and scheduled interactions. Some programs may even offer online exams. Amrita Online, Amrita University provides Online MCA courses.  

The various specialisation in MCA that Amita Online provides are as follows:- 

1. MCA Artificial Intelligence: This Amrita Online MCA AI program equips students with the theoretical and practical skills to develop and implement intelligent systems using machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing techniques.
2. MCA Cybersecurity:-This Amrita Online MCA Cybersecurity program focuses on securing computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. Students learn about network security, penetration testing, incident response, and ethical hacking.

• Master of Technology (MTech) in Computer Science: Similar to MSc (CS) with a potential emphasis on engineering aspects of computer science.The career paths are such that you can adorn many software development lead, research and development engineer, or technical project manager positions.
• Master of Science in Information Technology (MSc IT): Provides advanced knowledge in information technology management, information security, and data analytics. 

Engineering: 

• Master of Technology (MTech): Offered in various engineering specializations, building upon the knowledge gained in a UG or undergraduate courses in engineering degree. Programs may involve coursework, research projects, and potentially a thesis requirement. Specializations can include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, computer science engineering, and more.The career paths are such that you can adorn advanced engineering roles based on the chosen specialization (e.g., design engineer, research engineer, project manager). 

Healthcare: 

• Master of Pharmacy (MPharma): Offers advanced study in specific pharmacy specializations such as pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, or industrial pharmacy.The career paths are such that you can adorn positions as hospital pharmacist, clinical research associate, or drug regulatory affairs specialist positions.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Focuses on public health principles and practices, preparing graduates for careers in public health policy, epidemiology, or healthcare administration.The career paths are such that you can adorn public health specialist, epidemiologist, healthcare administrator, or health policy analyst positions. 

Arts and Humanities: 

• Master of Arts (MA): Offers advanced study in a specific area of Arts or Humanities, such as English Literature (specializing in a particular period or genre), History (focusing on a specific region or historical period), or Economics (specializing in areas like development economics or financial economics).The career paths are such that you can adorn Research positions, teaching roles in higher education, or industry positions requiring specialized knowledge in the chosen field (e.g., museum curator, content writer, or economic analyst).
• Master of Philosophy (MPhil): Provides intensive research training in a chosen field, often serving as a stepping stone towards a doctoral degree (PhD).The career paths are such that you can adorn research positions in academic institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations. May also lead to PhD studies for further research specialization. 

List of Top Job Opportunities after UG and PG with Salary in 2026 

This table summarizes top undergraduate courses (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs in India, alongside their corresponding job opportunities. It estimates monthly salary ranges for fresh graduates, highlighting potential for higher earnings in certain specializations. Remember, salary variations depend on factors like location, experience, and company reputation. The salaries given below are taken from Glassdoorwebsite for authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions 

• BA is UG or PG? 

A: BA stands for Bachelor of Arts. It is an Undergraduate courses (UG) degree typically completed in 3-4 years. Unlike Bachelor of Science (BSc) programs, BAs focus on subjects in the humanities, social sciences, and arts, providing a broad foundation in these areas. 

•  MBA is UG or PG? 

A: MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. It is a Postgraduate (PG) degree usually pursued after a Bachelor's degree. MBAs equip students with advanced business knowledge and skills in areas like finance, marketing, and management, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries. 

•  Diploma is UG or PG? 

A: Diplomas can be offered at both UG and PG levels. The specific level depends on the program and its duration. Generally, UG diplomas are shorter (1-2 years) and focus on specific vocational skills, while PG diplomas (often 1 year) build upon existing knowledge in a specialized field. 

• BE is UG or PG? 

A: BE stands for Bachelor of Engineering. It is an Undergraduate (UG) degree in engineering, typically lasting 4 years. BEs provide a strong foundation in engineering principles and prepare students for entry-level engineering positions. 

•  BEd is UG or PG? 

A: BEd stands for Bachelor of Education. It is either a UG or PG degree depending on the program structure. Some BEd programs require a Bachelor's degree for entry, making them Postgraduate (PG) qualifications that focus on teaching methodologies. Other BEd programs are offered as UG degrees, preparing students to become teachers directly after high school. 

•  Engineering is UG or PG? 

A: Engineering degrees can be offered at both Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) levels. Examples include BE (UG) which provides a foundational knowledge base, and ME (PG) which offers deeper specialization in a particular engineering field. 

•  BSc is UG or PG? 

A: BSc stands for Bachelor of Science. It is an Undergraduate (UG) degree typically completed in 3-4 years, focusing on scientific fields. Bsc programs provide a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and methods, preparing students for careers in research, laboratory work, or further studies in a specific scientific discipline. 

• MSc is UG or PG? 

A: MSc stands for Master of Science. It is a Postgraduate (PG) degree pursued after a Bachelor's degree in a scientific field. MSc programs offer advanced studies and research opportunities, allowing students to specialize in a particular area of science. 

Conclusion  

Choosing the right educational path is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your future career prospects. This article has provided an overview of various undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs across different fields, along with potential career paths. Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other exciting educational options available. 

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