Diploma vs. bachelor's degree: How do they differ?
Securing a job often depends on the level of education you attain. The Philippines is no different. Diploma courses and degree programs are the two common qualifications here, that teach and train people in a specific field. Knowing the difference between the two can help you decide which is right for you.
A diploma course is a shorter program that focuses on imparting specific job skills. On the other hand, a bachelor's degree is a longer and more comprehensive educational path that covers a broader range of subjects.
In this article, we will discuss the intricacies of diplomas and bachelor's degrees—examining the nature of each course, highlighting key differences, and offering insights on how to make the right choice. Here is what this article covers:
What is a diploma?
A diploma is a certificate awarded to a student when they finish a specific program of study. You can get a diploma from colleges, technical schools, or vocational schools that focus on specific fields. Mind you, this is different from the high school diploma you received when you completed high school.
Usually, a diploma takes anywhere between one and two years. This makes a diploma certificate an appealing option for those seeking a more focused and efficient entry into their dream career fields. It may, however, take longer to get a diploma if you study part-time while working.
There are various kinds of diploma programs, from entry-level to graduate diplomas. Each diploma has a different focus that can help you pursue different jobs. Governments and well-known institutions like universities provide formal diplomas. While non-governmental organizations, companies, or societies provide informal diplomas.
Jobs that often need a diploma include:
The cost of pursuing a diploma course can vary widely, depending on factors such as the type of diploma program and the field of study. On average, a healthcare diploma might have different costs compared to one in business or technology.
It is essential to consider the institution, program duration, specific subject, diploma, and career goals when estimating the expenses. For more accurate and current information, it is recommended to research specific institutions or programs in your chosen field.
What is a bachelor's degree?
A bachelor's degree is a program that includes coursework related to a specific area of study. It is often the first degree you complete in university. After obtaining your bachelor's degree, you can go for a master's degree and then a doctorate. A bachelor's degree is often what people think of when they talk about a university degree.
Typically, a bachelor's degree takes a minimum of four years of full-time study to complete. However, some academic degrees can even take three or six years to complete.
There are also many types of bachelor's degrees based on your focus. Some common bachelor's degree programs include education, business, architecture, engineering, and environmental biology.
The cost of a bachelor's degree course depends on the university and the subject you choose to study. After you finish your bachelor's degree, you might go on to study further to improve your skills and boost your career. You might also start working right away.
Common fields that require a bachelor's degree include:
Diploma vs. bachelor's degree
The cost and time commitment of a diploma program and a bachelor's degree are different and are a big part of what distinguishes the two. The learning outcomes, career prospects, and commitment of each also differ substantially.
Below is a list of the key differences and similarities between diploma and bachelor's degree programs:
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degrees typically require the completion of high school. Some diploma programs do not require this. Certain bachelor's degree courses, such as engineering, medical, or law, also require the applicant to achieve high grades in various high school subjects.
Time commitment
Diploma programs are completed in less time, often less than two years. You can sometimes complete a diploma alongside a full-time or part-time job, so it might take you longer. Bachelor's degrees typically require at least three to four years of full-time study.
Coursework
Bachelor's degrees often offer more practical knowledge and advanced skills than most diploma courses. They usually give you a wider understanding of the subject and focus on theory and practical skills relating to a future career path.
Both programs allow you to focus on a subject you are interested in and can boost your career prospects. Both also typically require some level of education before you start, such as finishing high school for a bachelor's degree and some diploma programs. Finally, you can often study both programs part-time, allowing you to work while studying.
Diploma vs. certificate
A certificate confirms that a person has completed a series of classes or training in a specific skill. Earning a certificate may take a few weeks to a few months. Diplomas and certificates are both educational credentials, but they are not the same. Here is how they differ and what they have in common:
Differences between diplomas and certificates
There are several key differences between a diploma program and a certificate. The time it takes to earn a diploma or certificate differs greatly. Diploma programs can take one to four years, while certificate programs are shorter, often lasting only a few weeks to a few months.
A diploma usually offers a broader level of education than a certificate program.
The institutions or organizations that give out diplomas and certificates also differ. Recognized educational institutions, such as universities, governments, or colleges, often provide diplomas. Educational and non-educational entities, like companies or non-profit organizations, can provide certificates.
There are two types of certificates. You receive an academic certificate after finishing a course of study, while a legal certificate allows you to legally work in a certain field. Jobs that require a legal certification include hairdressers, manicurists, web developers, dental assistants, automotive mechanics, machinists, welders, and personal trainers.
The cost of diplomas and certificates is another difference. It is usually cheaper to earn a certificate than it is to earn a diploma because of the shorter study duration.
Similarities between diplomas and certificates
Both diplomas and certificates usually have some entry requirements. For example, a diploma course might require you to finish high school before enrolling.
Certain certificate courses may also require some form of educational background. Checking what qualifications, you need for the course you are interested in can help you make your choice.
International credentials equivalencies
The international equivalent of a diploma
A diploma is a certificate or document that an educational institution, like a college or university, issues to show that a student has completed a course of study. The term “diploma” can refer to various levels of qualifications in different countries.
Each country has its educational system and may use the term differently. For example, in some countries, a diploma could be equivalent to a high school qualification. In others, a diploma could refer to a postgraduate degree.
In many countries, a diploma is like an associate degree program in the U.S. or a Higher National Diploma in the UK. Both usually take two years of full-time study to complete.
The international equivalent of a bachelor's degree
Like diplomas, bachelor's degrees have different names across the world, but they refer to the same level of education.
You may be wondering, is a bachelor's degree an undergraduate degree? Yes, it is typically the degree you earn after completing undergraduate studies, which usually lasts three to four years, depending on the country and course of study.
For instance, in France, a bachelor's degree is equivalent to a “license.” It would be called a “Bakkalaureus” or “Bachelors” in Germany. In Australia, it is also referred to as a bachelor's degree program.
Despite the name differences, these degrees are often equivalent in international contexts when considering job qualifications and continuing education pathways. Exact equivalencies can vary slightly based on factors such as the specific subject studied, the course duration, the university's reputation, and the educational policies of each country.
Conclusion
Diploma and degree programs each have their unique characteristics. A diploma usually focuses on teaching specific skills and trades and is part of vocational or technical education. It also usually requires a lesser time commitment making it ideal for those who want to develop employable skills quickly.
A bachelor's degree is an extensive academic program that equips you with comprehensive knowledge of a specific subject. This in-depth education not only cultivates expertise but also fosters critical thinking skills, preparing you for a dynamic and evolving professional landscape.
Certificates take even less time to earn. These are typically awarded when you complete a set of courses or receive practical training. These focused programs offer a quicker way to gain specific skills, making them a practical choice for those seeking a swift entry into the workforce or a targeted enhancement of their professional capabilities.
Internationally, qualifications that are equivalent to diplomas and bachelor's degrees vary in name but often represent a similar level of education. Regardless of your preference, all these courses provide valuable learning to enhance your skills, open new professional career paths, and increase your employability in the job market.
FAQs
- Is a diploma higher than a bachelor's?
No, a diploma is not higher than a bachelor's degree. You usually obtain a diploma after one to two years of study, often in a specific vocational or technical field.
A bachelor's degree is a higher education qualification typically conferred after three to four years of full-time study at a university. It equips you with a broad knowledge base and develops your theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a specific subject area. - Does a diploma count as a degree?
No, a diploma is not equivalent to a degree. A diploma is a certificate that an educational institution awards to indicate that a student has completed a specific course of study. It typically takes less time to complete than a degree and often focuses on vocational training or technical skills.
A degree, such as a bachelor's degree or master's degree, is a higher educational qualification awarded after the successful completion of several years of study in a particular field. A degree often provides a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the subject area than a diploma. - What are some diplomas and certificates equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree?
Qualifications such as the UK's bachelor's degree, Australia's bachelor's degree, and Canada's bachelor's degree are equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree. A U.S. bachelor's degree involves three to four years of full-time study at a university. A bachelor's degree in the UK, Australia, or Canada is also an undergraduate degree and typically requires three to four years of study. - Can I pursue further studies with a diploma?
Yes, diploma holders can pursue further study in related subjects. Earning a diploma can often be a stepping stone to further education. The credits you earn from a diploma may be transferrable to a higher level of education, such as a bachelor's degree, depending on the institution's policies.
It is important to check with the specific community college or university you are interested in, as each institution has its own rules and requirements for admission and credit transfers. - What jobs do not require a diploma?
Many jobs do not require a diploma. Some examples of these jobs include sales representatives, administrative assistants, home health aides, personal trainers, customer service representatives, construction workers, and truck drivers.
While these jobs may not require a formal diploma, they often require other skills, such as interpersonal communication skills, physical endurance, customer service skills, or specific technical skills. Some of these jobs may also require on-the-job training or certain certifications, which do not necessarily require a diploma. - What jobs do not require a bachelor's degree?
Many jobs do not require a bachelor's degree. Examples of these include:
real estate agents
executive assistants
electricians
dental hygienists
web developers
paralegals
HVAC technicians
These jobs may require a high school diploma or certificate, on-the-job training, or apprenticeships. While they might not require a bachelor's degree, they still entail specific skills or certifications to do the job effectively. The specific job requirements also vary according to the position and location.
