Deciding to further your studies is a great decision. But now that you’ve made that choice, you may be confused about the qualifications available to you. Here are the differences between a degree, certificate and a diploma.
Differences Between a Degree, Certificate and a Diploma
Knowing the differences between a degree, certificate and a diploma can be tricky. But note that all three show a level of achievement that you can be proud of. After reading this post, you’ll know which is best for you and your study needs.
Certificate
Certificates and diplomas are actually quite similar. They both take a shorter time to complete. However, you can finish certificate courses much faster than a diploma course. You could have a certificate in a matter of weeks.
Certificates are focused on industry-specific skills. Employers will therefore often send staff to complete certificate courses. This allows them to gain updated knowledge on how to do their jobs.
Our certificate courses are fast, practical, and built to fit your schedule. Download our brochure to see how you can start building real skills today.
Diploma
A diploma takes longer than a certificate but is shorter than a degree. Diploma courses usually last between one to three years. However, if you decide to study part-time, it can take just as long as studying a full-time degree.
Our diplomas are accredited by the QCTO. Diplomas may focus on one subject and often have a practical component. So by the time you graduate, you’ll not only have a qualification, but work experience to go along with it. It can also be much cheaper to study than a degree.
Degree
A degree has a much longer study period and is usually studied through a university. There are various levels. The first level is a Bachelor’s degree. This is what is known as an undergraduate programme and can last a minimum of three years.
After successfully completing your undergraduate programme, you can move on to optional postgraduate studies. This is where you’ll do an Honours degree first, then a Master’s and finally a Doctorate (or PhD). These degrees are more research-focused and will require you to write a thesis or dissertation.
Our diploma courses give you the right mix of learning and hands-on experience. WhatsApp us to get a brochure and see how you can get started.
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Our distance learning courses will give you top skills to help you start your career on a high note. We offer qualifications in a number of popular fields. All you have to do is contact our course experts who can give you all the information you need:
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Looking to grow your skills and get career-ready from home? Speak to us today about our certificate and diploma courses that help you stand out and succeed in the job market today.
People Also Ask
Yes, a diploma can lead to job opportunities, particularly in fields where practical, hands-on skills are valued. It’s often recognized by employers for roles that require specific technical or vocational skills.
Many institutions allow the credits from a diploma to be transferred towards a degree, especially if the diploma and degree are in related fields. This can sometimes shorten the duration of degree studies.
A diploma is typically considered a level below a bachelor’s degree. It focuses more on practical skills and is often seen as an intermediate qualification between a high school certificate and a bachelor’s degree.
A diploma in South Africa is on NQF Level 6. This means the course teaches both theory and practical skills that you can use at work. It’s a step above a certificate and can help you find better jobs or study further.
After you get your diploma, there are lots of ways to move forward. You can start working, grow in your job, or choose to study more. What you do next depends on what you want for your future.
Here are some things you can do after your diploma:
- Start working in your field
- Apply for a higher course
- Study a short course to learn new skills
- Get work experience through internships
- Start your own small business
