graduate diploma

The Graduate Diploma or Higher Diploma in Ireland is a postgraduate award taken after a Bachelor's degree. Usually of one years study, sometimes two years, full time study. A wide variety of courses are offered, it is also possible to progress to a Master's degree. The diploma is generally in two forms:

A reorientation type qualification to reskill a graduate with new specialised skills, for instance the HDipStats - Higher Diploma in Statistics is aimed at offering additional skills in statistics. See also Higher Diploma.

A professional type qualification which is necessary to enter a profession, for instance the HDipEd - Higher Diploma in Education allows a person to register and practice teaching. See also Postgraduate Diploma.

The Graduate Diploma (GradDip) is offered by DIT, DCU, HETAC and UL. The Higher Diploma (HDip) is offered by HETAC, NUI institutions, Trinity College Dublin offers only the Higher Diploma in Education.