Certificate vs. Diploma vs. Degree

Certificate, diploma, and degree are all words that we use to refer to credentials earned after some sort of schooling. But, when should we use these words, and what is the difference between these three credentials? Let's take a closer look.

A certificate is a credential offered after completing a program in a specialized field. Some institutions offer certificates in technical fields, such as plumbing, HVAC repair, or even certain types of nursing. In addition, a certificate can be granted by a licensing board that shows proof that someone is able to practice a certain profession after being educated or trained. For example, a cosmetologist might complete a certificate program at a community college and then also be granted a certificate by a state agency that says he/she is able to practice the profession.

A diploma is similar to a certificate, but the program that leads to a diploma is typically longer and has more depth. So, someone who is awarded a diploma in nursing from a college would have received more in-depth training and broader training that someone who earned a certificate. ometimes, two-year colleges will award diplomas at the end of the two-year program rather than degrees or certificates.

Finally, a degree is awarded after the most in-depth higher education programs. Degrees can be given at two-year colleges, four-year colleges, and at the graduate level. A degree program is more in-depth because the student is required to take general classes in addition to the area of specialty. For example, a student who wants to graduate with a teaching degree in English still has to take a certain amount of math and science courses as part of the "core" curriculum in a degree program.