What Is The Difference Between A Certificate And A Diploma Course?


Most people are caught between getting a certificate or a diploma when they leave high school. And each has its pros and cons. 

Let’s take a look at what those are in this article.

 

What is a certificate?

A certificate program is generally provided in community colleges or technical and vocational schools. This course usually focuses on a specific skill.

These certificate programs typically last a year, but they can be completed in as short as a few months.

Your career pathway after obtaining a certificate highly depends on what industry you have chosen to focus on. For example, if you take a certificate in cosmetology, you will learn various skills, such as cutting hair, skincare or even work as a nail artist.

A certification program gives you the knowledge and expertise you need to serve your clients with the most up-to-date information and the highest quality services possible.

In addition, there are considerably fewer criteria for admission to the program. Some examples of certificate courses include business certificates, culinary certificates, cosmetology certificates, technical certificates and more.

Advantages of certificate courses

There are a few benefits of certificate courses:

  • You don’t have to be on a waiting list to gain admission.
  • Classes have flexible schedules and usually are set at times that are convenient for working individuals.
  • Courses are specific to the field you are going to pursue.
  • You get to meet and engage with working professionals.
  • Programs have different start dates throughout the year.
  • It is the more cost-efficient alternative.

 

What is a diploma course?

What is a diploma course?
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A diploma is more comprehensive than a certificate and takes a bit longer to complete. Most diploma courses require students to complete about 1 to 2 years of studies. Diploma programs are sometimes more technical as well.

A diploma enables you to get a better grasp of a specific subject. You will learn how to interact effectively with co-workers, analyse complicated situations, and make decisions based on your best judgement. You can also choose to further your studies by enrolling in a degree program upon completing your diploma.

Advantages of diploma courses

Here are a few pros of joining diploma courses:

  • You won’t have to deal with the time-consuming enrolment procedures you could encounter in a degree program.
  • Classes are designed to teach you the specific abilities you’ll need in the industry.
  • Internships or externships are common in diploma programs, allowing you to get practical experience while networking for potential employment prospects.
  • You get to meet people through university life.

Graduate certificate vs diploma

Graduate certificate vs diploma
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Certificate programs are highly targeted and look at the necessary abilities students need to be able to work in a particular sector. 

Classes may simply provide a broad perspective of important industry-related subjects or practises, depending on the kind of certificate, to ensure you have a working understanding of the area. 

On the other hand, diplomas specialise in a specific professional sector, although they take longer to achieve. In addition, diplomas often need students to take modest general education courses as well.

One of the most appealing aspects of a certificate program is the speed with which it may be completed. 

Unlike a diploma, which can take up to 2 years to complete, graduate certificates can be completed in as little as a few months to a few years.

This variety in duration is attributable to certificate programs’ flexibility, which includes taking as few or as many courses as needed.

Besides that, diplomas encourage students to explore a wide range of professional options and allow for flexible learning. 

 

How to choose between a certificate or diploma?

How to choose between a certificate or diploma?
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Individuals who would like to start working as soon as they leave high school would most likely benefit from obtaining a certificate. In addition, since a certificate can be obtained in just a few months, this can be good for those who have limited time and finances. 

You may choose to get a diploma if you want to continue your studies in a degree program. However, many degree courses require students to have a diploma or a foundation certificate related to their chosen degree. 

Additionally, if you choose to continue with a degree course in the same institution where you completed your diploma, you would have a head start in adapting to campus life.

Lastly, your skills play an essential role in choosing an education program. You have to consider these two questions while making your decision;

  • Do you want to join the job market for the first time? 
  • Do you want to have an established profession and want to make a shift? 

Examine your administrative skills, ability to construct things, problem-solving skills, and whether you are interested in working in a specific sector.

Assessing your talents and interests can assist you in selecting a curriculum that is right for you and will lead to a profession you enjoy.

 

Price difference between certificate and diploma

The cost of education is determined by the price of each course, which varies based on the university.  In comparison to a diploma, a certificate program requires considerably fewer courses to finish. Hence, it is much cheaper to obtain a certificate as compared to a diploma.

Moreover, since most certificate courses are offered at your local community college, you don’t have to use the extra money for accommodation. So, you will use less money for living expenses compared to if you pursue a diploma course in an out of state university.

Another plus point with certificate programs is the flexibility with class schedules. They tend to offer night classes to provide opportunities for students who need to work while studying. So, this allows students to both attend classes and earn a living.

 

Is a diploma a higher qualification than a certificate?

Yes, it is. Diploma courses are created for people who have the potential to acquire more than one skill. This is at the very least a step up from a certificate program and carries more weight in nearly every employment sector.

 

Why should you get a certificate or diploma?

Why should you get a certificate or diploma?
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There are many reasons why you should get a certificate or diploma. 

Cost

Firstly, a consideration in deciding whether a diploma or certificate is suitable for you is the cost. 

Diplomas and certificates are typically less expensive than other alternatives, so they might be more cost-effective when starting a new profession.

Time

A diploma or certificate may be the ideal alternative if you want to transition to a new profession as fast as feasible. However, if you’re a full-time worker, look for a program that offers evening, weekend, or online sessions.

Easier transition to university life

Since the subjects and workload given in these courses are similar to what you will get when you attend university, you will be more prepared and comfortable when you continue your studies.

This will give you an upper hand over those who are joining straight from high school. As you are already used to this lifestyle, you can use the adjustment period for other stuff. For example, you can use the time to get used to the university compound or make new friends.

Allows you to explore your interest

Since the focus of these programs is specific, you can cultivate and explore your interests. This also will help you when you’re searching for jobs as you will be skillful in that said interest.

Enables easy entry into your field of interest

Since you are specifically focused on one field, you will have the skillsets needed for the said field. So, it gives you a higher chance of getting employed in the field as you have more understanding and knowledge of your field of interest.

 

Diploma courses in Malaysia

There are plenty of diploma courses available for students who have completed their SPM in Malaysia. In addition, universities such as UOW Malaysia KDU offer diploma courses specially curated to link to their degree courses if students want to further their studies in the field. 

Programs are carefully designed to ensure our students gain both skills and knowledge beneficial for their future from their years of study. Certification and diploma programs you can choose from in Malaysia include: 

Before deciding which UOW Malaysia KDU courses to take, understand better on the programs that you could embark on, after graduating from your diploma or certificate courses. Discover what’s best suited for you through our online career test.

 

Conclusion

You should choose a program that best suits your personality, skillset, and availability at the end of the day. Each pathway discussed above has its own benefits, but only one can be the best choice for you. 

If you need more guidance on which program you should choose, you can drop your enquiries here!

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12 October 2021

CATEGORY

Education and Career