Postgraduate programs are divided into two main groups: lato sensu and stricto sensu. In this article, we will explain the main differences between them and subsequently explain the existing subdivisions. The main differences lie in the workload, student objectives, and methodologies used.
Lato sensu
These courses focus heavily on case studies and applications in the professional's daily work, generally offered as a way to update and specialize in a particular topic. Because they are mostly market-focused, they usually have a more flexible schedule, potentially including weekend sessions or blended learning (with one intensive week followed by online weeks). They are best suited for professionals at the beginning of their careers or those who need to update their knowledge on a specific topic.
MBA (Master in Business Administration)
This program is suitable for professionals who have been in the job market for several years, since the exchange of experiences and knowledge among students is an important part of the program. Generally, the target audience for this type of postgraduate program consists of people who hold senior management positions or who wish to prepare for such positions. By combining networking and the acquisition of know-how with best practices in people management, business, projects, and various topics in the field of administration, the student becomes capable of working in executive and planning roles, whether in the private or public sector.
Postgraduate specialization
It is a course focused on reinforcing knowledge in a specific topic or area of expertise. Unlike an MBA, for example, the target audience does not necessarily have extensive market experience, often being taken immediately after graduation and, therefore, generally targeting a younger audience. The methodology allows students to master various approaches, interpretations, and problem-solving methods.
Stricto Sensu
There's a preconceived notion that those seeking a Stricto Sensu postgraduate degree solely desire to teach – part-time or full-time, which is indeed the case in some instances. Beyond these individuals, there are those who seek to enhance their skills to stand out in the market, acquiring knowledge and methods to improve their professional performance and facilitate the pursuit of new challenges when necessary. Stricto Sensu postgraduate programs signal that the professional is committed and has the criteria to develop new knowledge, in addition to possessing the necessary skills. networking Interacting with people from different career paths and with experiences that complement your own allows you to develop new ideas and knowledge.
The goal of Stricto Sensu postgraduate programs is to enable students to develop original ideas and expand the frontiers of knowledge in their research area. The focus is on promoting different methodological and scientific approaches, thus tracing lines of investigation with the highest scientific standards.
In the strict sense, discussions and analyses of concepts, the diverse knowledge of students, and different perspectives on historical moments and theories serve as input for the development of new approaches and the creation of knowledge.
Academic Master's Degree
Perhaps the best-known Master's degree is the academic one, often associated with professionals who want to teach. But this program isn't limited to that audience; many people pursue this Master's degree to become researchers with greater scientific rigor or to develop research methodologies. The academic Master's degree helps professionals not only develop research-related skills but also learn more about andragogy to impart knowledge.
Professional master's degree
Although very similar to an academic master's degree, this modality differs in its scope and methodology. There is a much greater focus on applying academic knowledge to the student's daily professional life. Therefore, upon completing the course, the student will have a theoretical foundation to apply their knowledge in the job market.
The goal is for the student to become well-versed in research methodologies, but not necessarily pursue a career as a researcher. What is truly important is that this professional gains experience in research so they can identify topics of interest to their profession within a scientific context, enabling them to incorporate existing and future knowledge into their work. Developing critical thinking is a far from trivial exercise, requiring significant effort and dedication from the student to be carried out scientifically.
Doctoral Program
A doctoral program demands a higher level of intellectual maturity and critical thinking, as the course requires a thesis defense. The program truly expands the boundaries of knowledge for its students, who are evaluated by a highly refined panel and placed in a position to judge ideas.
Although common, a doctorate does not necessarily have to be pursued after a master's degree or other postgraduate studies. This is mainly because the doctoral thesis can be intimidating, requiring students to have a high level of knowledge in developing new ideas, academic production, a strong critical sense, and experimentation in the research process. Therefore, many students first complete a master's degree to "prepare" for a doctorate, since the master's program fosters this knowledge.
The best type of postgraduate program depends on your professional goals. We hope this text has helped you understand better so you can make a safe choice! Remember: a postgraduate program requires planning and commitment. It's a decision that changes your professional future!
