Many students get confused between a Bachelor’s degree and an undergraduate degree. Simply put, an undergraduate qualification refers to all entry-level higher education programmes, while a Bachelor’s degree is one specific type within that group.
An undergraduate programme can include certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. A Bachelor’s degree is the most common option and usually takes 3–4 years, giving you deeper knowledge in a specific field.
When choosing your path, consider your career goals, how much time you can commit, and the level of qualification your industry prefers. Some students start with shorter undergraduate courses and later upgrade to a bachelor’s, while others go straight into a full degree.
This overview helps you understand your options so you can plan your education with confidence.
In this article, we explore the differences between the two degrees, covering their definitions, similarities, key distinctions, and their relevance in South Africa and beyond.
Table of Contents
What is a Bachelor’s Degree?
A Bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate qualification that students can pursue after completing matric, provided they achieve a Bachelor’s pass. It is a widely recognised qualification in South Africa and internationally, offering students an opportunity to specialise in a specific field of study. Depending on the course and institution, a Bachelor’s degree usually takes three to four years to complete.
This qualification prepares students for careers in their chosen fields or further studies, such as postgraduate programmes. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to ensure graduates are ready for the workplace or advanced education.
As we explore the landscape of the Bachelor’s degree vs the undergraduate degree, you must see that there are several types of Bachelor’s degrees. Some of them include:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA): This degree focuses on subjects like languages, history, media, and other humanities. It is ideal for students interested in careers in education, social work, media, or the arts.
- Bachelor of Science (BSc): A degree centred around Science and Mathematics. It includes fields like Biology, Computer Science, and Environmental Science and is suitable for careers in technology, research, or healthcare.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB): This degree is designed for students who want to build a career in the legal field. It focuses on key areas, including criminal law, constitutional law, contracts, and legal systems. It is a popular choice for careers in advocacy, legal advisory roles, and further professional legal training.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): This degree is ideal for students interested in business operations, leadership, and management. It covers areas such as marketing, finance, human resources, and strategic planning. It is a strong choice for careers in management, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership.
Read more about What is a Bachelor’s Degree? Here.
What is an Undergraduate Degree?
An undergraduate degree is a qualification obtained at the first level of university education. It serves as the starting point for higher education, equipping students with foundational knowledge and skills in their chosen field. In South Africa, it is the academic step after matric, offering students the opportunity to specialise in a subject while gaining broad academic exposure. The following are the types of undergraduate qualifications:
1. Higher Certificates
These are short programmes that take about one year to complete. They focus on teaching basic skills in a specific field and are often used as a stepping stone to further studies or entry-level jobs.
2. Diplomas
Diplomas usually take one year to finish and are more practical, preparing students for specific careers. They are career-focused and provide practical training in fields like business, engineering, or healthcare.
3. Bachelor’s Degrees
When considering the Bachelor’s degree vs undergraduate degree, you must know that a Bachelor’s degree is the most advanced qualification within undergraduate education. It typically takes three to four years to complete. It provides detailed knowledge in a specific field, preparing students for specialised careers or further studies.
Know more about What is Undergraduate Education? Here.
Examples of Undergraduate Qualifications
In South Africa, Bachelor’s degrees are the most common type of undergraduate qualification. These degrees, such as the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) and Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), are highly valued by employers and serve as a foundation for both further education and career development.
However, not all students start with a Bachelor’s degree. Many opt for undergraduate Diplomas or Certificates as stepping stones toward earning a Bachelor’s degree. These qualifications are typically shorter in duration and focus on practical skills that can be immediately useful in the workforce.
Let us look at some common examples of these qualifications:
1. Bachelor’s Degrees
Below are some common examples of Bachelor’s degree programmes:
- Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
- Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
2. Diplomas
The following are examples of Diploma programmes:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management
- Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing
- Postgraduate Diploma in Data Science
3. Higher Certificates
Given below are some common examples of Higher Certificate programmes:
- Higher Certificate in Public Management
- Higher Certificate in Business Management
Similarities Between Bachelor’s and Undergraduate Degrees
Both a Bachelor’s degree and an undergraduate degree serve as the starting point of higher education and share several key similarities. Since we are comparing these two qualifications, it’s important to understand that both pathways lay the foundation for a student’s academic journey and future professional growth.
Here are some of the key similarities between the two degrees:
- Both are foundational qualifications that follow secondary education.
- Both prepare students for entry-level job opportunities or further academic studies.
- Both require students to meet certain academic criteria for admission, such as a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent.
- Both include a combination of general education and specialised coursework to provide a well-rounded education.
- Both serve as stepping stones to more advanced qualifications, such as master’s or doctoral degrees.
Bachelor’s Degree vs Undergraduate Degree in South Africa
In South Africa, the higher education system follows the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), which organises qualifications into different levels. Bachelor’s degrees and other undergraduate options, such as Diplomas and Higher Certificates, are placed within this framework but differ in depth, duration, and purpose. To understand the difference between the degree qualifications, here is a quick look at how these programmes align with the NQF.
| Feature | Bachelor’s Degree | Undergraduate Qualification (Higher Certificate / Postgraduate Diploma) |
| Duration | 3 years full-time | 1 year full-time (Higher Certificate / Postgraduate Diploma) |
| NQF Level | Usually NQF Level 7 (some may reach Level 8) | NQF Level 5 for Higher Certificates and NQF Level 8 for Postgraduate Diplomas |
| Career Outcomes | Prepares students for professional roles, management careers, and postgraduate study. | Builds foundational or advanced skills and offers a pathway for career entry or progression. |
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Who Should Choose a Bachelor’s Degree?
A Bachelor’s degree is a great choice for people who want to build a strong foundation for their careers or continue their studies further. It gives you deep knowledge in a specific area, which is important for many jobs. If you are aiming for a specialised career or planning to study more after your degree, a Bachelor’s degree is often essential. Here is who should consider getting one:
- Those who want to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular field.
- People aiming for specialised careers in Law, Medicine, or Engineering.
- Anyone planning to pursue further studies after their degree.
- Those looking to improve career prospects and earning potential.
- People who want a long-term, rewarding career in their field.
Know How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in South Africa
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between the degrees is essential for making informed decisions about higher education.
However, undergraduate qualifications are a broader category, which also includes Diplomas and Certificates, each with its own benefits. Whether you choose a Bachelor’s degree or another undergraduate qualification, each path offers valuable skills and knowledge for your future. The best choice will depend on your personal aspirations and the career you wish to pursue.
Explore the diverse range of Bachelor’s degree vs Undergraduate degree programmes at Regenesys, which will equip you with the skills and knowledge for a successful career. Start your journey with us today!
Bachelor’s Degree vs Undergraduate Degree – FAQ
What is a Bachelor’s degree?
A Bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate qualification that provides in-depth knowledge in a specific field. It typically takes three to four years to complete and prepares students for careers or further studies.
What is an Undergraduate degree?
An undergraduate degree is the first level of university education, offering foundational knowledge. It includes qualifications like Certificates, Diplomas, and Bachelor’s degrees, each serving different educational and career purposes.
What is the difference between Bachelor’s and Undergraduate degrees?
In the discussion of the Bachelor’s degree vs undergraduate degree, the difference between them is that a Bachelor’s degree is a specific and advanced qualification. On the other hand, undergraduate degrees are a level of qualification that includes Bachelor’s, Diplomas and Certificates, which have different focuses and durations.
What is the difference between the Bachelor’s degree and an undergraduate degree in South Africa?
In South Africa, both Bachelor’s degrees and other undergraduate qualifications like Diplomas and Certificates are part of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Bachelor’s degrees are typically at NQF Level 7, while Diplomas are at Level 6.
Who should consider pursuing a Bachelor’s degree?
Individuals aiming for specialised careers or further studies should consider a Bachelor’s degree. It offers deep knowledge in specific fields, improving career prospects and earning potential.
