Certificate/Diploma Programs

Some universities refer to their programs as certificate programs, while others call them diploma programs. Typically, a diploma program requires a minimum number of instruction hours, and is longer in duration. However, you may encounter two schools that offer similar programs in structure as well as duration of time, but one of them may call the program a certificate program and the other may call it a diploma program. In order to pursue most undergraduate certificates a student needs a high school diploma or GED. Some certificate programs offer academic credit that you can apply toward a degree. Others are noncredit credentials of achievement. You may be interested in a particular area of study and choose not to take the entire path to a college degree, but to aim for a certificate in the particular subject instead. Keep in mind that it is an intensive and fast-paced program. Anyone who already has a degree but is interested in updating their skills or getting training in a new field may be a good candidate for a certificate program.

When Looking for the Right Program

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, working students in online certificate programs are nearly twice as likely to finish as degree-seekers. The acceptance of certificates and diplomas by employers has increased greatly in the 21st Century, especially among those who have taken online classes. Corporations themselves have turned to online training programs; for instance, online lessons offered by Caterpillar leapt from 30,000 in 2001 to 200,000 in 2004. When attending a certificate or diploma program you should carefully review the programs extensively based upon your own individual needs. Research the schools reputation, support services offered, faculty, location, scheduling and the opinions of former students. You should also check the total number of instruction hours. Do not look only at the duration of the program. For instance, a program with 12 hours of instruction per week over the duration of 24 weeks will provide you a total of 288 hours of instruction. As compared to a program that may have 30 hours of instruction per week over the duration of 10 weeks will provide you 300 hours of instruction. The fact that a program has a longer duration does not necessarily mean that you will learn more.

Why a Certificate and Diploma Program

If you want to broaden your knowledge but don't want to complete all of the requirements for a Master's degree, a graduate certificate could be a great solution for you. This will allow you to take graduate level classes in your field without having to go through the additional steps that are often required for a Master's degree program, such as an exam, thesis, or other project. Online graduate certificates are available in numerous fields, including international business, education, management information systems, health services, and project management. You can find details about graduate certificate programs at a local or online school. These programs are faster and less expensive than degree programs. Their entrance requirements are also usually less strict than the degree programs' requirements. Many of the program classes are offered several times a year, providing flexibility and convenience in terms of scheduling. Make yourself more marketable to employers by earning your diploma or certificate.

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