PGdip (oxford) vs MA (Kings, london)

S

I got offers from two history related programmes that i like equally (in terms of content). Ones a pgdip at oxford and the other an MA at Kings.
Which will look better on a CV?
thanks :)

N

Hi sebleb,

Congrats on your offers! Which degree 'looks better' on your CV is ultimately a matter for your potential employer. So, to an extent, it's subjective depending on what jobs you are going for (or whether you are continuing in academia). It also depends on the result you get at the end.

In general, it's my understanding that the PGDip is more of a vocational degree, so I'm not sure what a History PGDip entails. An MA is a rigorous academic - as opposed to vocational - degree.

Either way, don't automatically plump for Oxford just because it has the better reputation. King's is a great school with a strong reputation too. I say this as a current student of Oxbridge myself. Look at other factors, like supervision support, location, facilities, etc. Ask yourself where you think you will thrive best. There's no point worrying about your CV if you spend the year being miserable!

S

Quote From Nesrine87:
Hi sebleb,

Congrats on your offers! Which degree 'looks better' on your CV is ultimately a matter for your potential employer. So, to an extent, it's subjective depending on what jobs you are going for (or whether you are continuing in academia). It also depends on the result you get at the end.

In general, it's my understanding that the PGDip is more of a vocational degree, so I'm not sure what a History PGDip entails. An MA is a rigorous academic - as opposed to vocational - degree.

Either way, don't automatically plump for Oxford just because it has the better reputation. King's is a great school with a strong reputation too. I say this as a current student of Oxbridge myself. Look at other factors, like supervision support, location, facilities, etc. Ask yourself where you think you will thrive best. There's no point worrying about your CV if you spend the year being miserable!


Thanks for the advice. I honestly think I'd be happy with either, although I'd prefer to live in Oxford than London. Just got an offer from UCL for an MA in history, my dilemma worsens! Also, I'm really not sure what I want to do professionally speaking.

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