A Complete Guide to Certificate & Diploma Programs

What are Certificate and Diploma Programs?

The terms diploma and certificate refer to academic credentials awarded to students who complete vocational (or job-training) programs in different subjects. Both diplomas and certificates are available at community colleges, technical and vocational schools, and select undergraduate colleges and universities. Although some institutions use the terms interchangeably, diploma programs tend to be longer and more comprehensive than certificate programs.

Certificates and diplomas are each designed for completion within two years, making them both shorter alternatives to the associate degree. They are a popular educational pathway among high school graduates who wish to receive relevant job training and enter the workforce without completing a full degree program, as well as established professionals seeking higher salaries and more advancement opportunities. The popularity of certificates and diplomas has risen in recent years. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 955,000 undergraduate certificates were conferred during the 2017-18 academic year.

Today's job experts stress the importance of post-high-school vocational training. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that those with some college but no degree (including diploma and certificate recipients) face a 3.3% unemployment rate, and earn a median weekly salary of $833. By comparison, those who complete their education with a high school diploma face a 3.7% unemployment rate, and earn a median weekly salary of $746 per week.

Diploma and certificate programs can also serve as a useful stepping stone for students who wish to eventually earn a higher degree, such as an associate or a bachelor's. In some cases, credits earned toward a certificate or diploma will be transferrable into more advanced academic programs.

Please note that this certificate and diploma guide exclusively discusses undergraduate learning options. Graduate diplomas and certificates are not included in this guide.

What's the Difference Between a Certificate, a Diploma, and a Degree?

It is important to note that undergraduate certificates and diplomas are not the same as academic degrees. However, certificates and diplomas are widely available in similar — if not identical — fields of study. Diploma programs tend to be slightly lengthier and more in-depth than certificate programs. More differences and similarities between diplomas, certificates, and degrees — as well as pros and cons associated with each — are highlighted below.

Certificate: Certificate programs are available in specialized technical fields; they usually include little to no formal coursework, and instead focus on practicum (or hands-on) training. Professions that may earn certification include plumbers, automotive mechanics, electricians, IT managers, paralegals, and healthcare administrators. Certifications are also widely available in different areas of business management and administration. In most cases, the only prerequisite for a certificate will be a high school diploma or GED. Certificates generally span 20 to 30 credits in length, and most can be earned within one academic year or less.

Diploma: Like certificates, diplomas are also available in specialized vocational or technical fields. However, they usually include a combination of formal coursework and practicum training. As a result, diploma programs are longer and more in-depth than certificates; most span 40 to 60 credits in length, and can usually be completed within one to two years. Diplomas are offered in fields like IT management, computer programming, graphic and web design, medical and dental office administration, paralegal studies, and property management. Like certificates, diplomas typically do not carry any prerequisites other than a high school diploma or GED.

Degree: Associate degrees, like certificates and diplomas, are widely offered at two-year community and technical colleges, as well as four-year universities. Some associate degree programs are 'transfer-ready', and will satisfy the first two years of a four-year bachelor's program; these pathways are designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university after two years. Other associate degrees are designed for students who plan to enter the workforce immediately after graduation; however, these tracks are typically two years in length, making them longer and more comprehensive than diploma or certificate programs. Some associate degree programs do not carry prerequisites other than a high school diploma or GED; others may require students to submit SAT/GRE test scores.

Online vs. Campus-Based Certificate and Diploma Programs

Related Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Diploma or Certificate?

Certificates may include anywhere from three to 10 courses, and typically span 10 to 30 credits in length; most can be completed in one year or less. Diplomas, on the other hand, generally include 10 to 25 courses; most require between one and two years for completion. However, some schools offer certificates and diplomas that can be earned in as little as one semester or quarter.

The length of a certificate or diploma program will largely depend on the subject or field of study. Subjects that have a broader scope — such as nursing, IT management, or dental assistant — will usually require a longer time commitment than specialized subjects like medical billing and coding, automotive mechanics, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Cohort-based tracks, which require students to begin their program at the same time and take courses simultaneously, may also extend the length of a certificate or diploma program; however, due to the relatively short length of certificate and diploma programs, very few cohort-based tracks are offered in the U.S. The vast majority of certificates and diplomas are self-paced, allowing students to finish course requirements on their own schedule.

Financing an Online Certificate Program

Cost is a major consideration for students seeking an undergraduate certificate or diploma; even tracks that last only one semester may amount to thousands of dollars in tuition and course fees. Additionally, students must factor in other expenses like housing, meals, commuting, and parking.

Students who pursue an online certificate program or college diploma program stand to save money compared to their brick-and-mortar counterparts. A recent survey from WCET noted that 75% of all online courses offered in the U.S. are priced at the same tuition rate as on-campus courses. Additionally, 53.6% of survey respondents noted that students who enrolled completely online are not required to pay all of the fees assessed to brick-and-mortar learners.

However, other factors may drive up the cost of earning a certificate or diploma online. One of these factors is state residency; a large number of two- and four-year postsecondary institutions level higher tuition rates for students who are not state residents.

Here are some other considerations to make when calculating the overall cost of earning an online certificate or diploma.

• In addition to reduced commuting and parking costs, online students who don't have to visit campus will have more time each week for working part- or full-time jobs. This could potentially boost their weekly earnings or, alternatively, save money on childcare costs.
• Online certificate and diploma programs often feature electronic textbooks and course materials, which tend to be less expensive than the materials for on-campus courses.
• Living expenses are somewhat comparable for online and on-campus students. Online learners may be able to rent an off-campus apartment or house, which both tend to be cheaper than on-campus living quarters. However, distance students must usually cover utilities, internet access, and other charges that are often provided free-of-charge to students living in campus dorms and apartments.

Annual Financial Aid Awarded

Average total cost of attending degree-granting institutions for first-time, full-time undergraduate students; Source: College Board

Who Should Consider an Online Certificate or Diploma?

As discussed above, those who earn an online diploma or certificate may be able to lower their total college costs and have more free time during the week for working or spending time with their families. Program duration is another perk, since most online certificates and diplomas can be earned in one year or less; online associate degrees, on the other hand, usually require a commitment of at least 18 to 24 months.

Those who pursue an online diploma or certificate after graduating from high school will save money on education in the long run and be able to enter the workforce relatively quickly. Established professionals who earn these credentials may be able to boost their salaries and advance in their career faster than those who do not earn them. Students who earn a nursing diploma, for example, will be qualified to sit for required registration exams and become registered nurses (or RNs); nurses who do not earn anything beyond their high school diploma or GED will not be able to become RNs without an undergraduate nursing diploma or an associate or bachelor's degree in nursing.

Here are some of the most common reasons for earning a diploma or certificate online:

• Professional development: Diplomas and certificates provide foundational training that recipients can use to negotiate for more advanced occupations and positions.
• Career changes: The diploma or certificate track is ideal for employees who are unsatisfied with their current profession and wish to transition into a different field where some job training is required.
• Skill building: Diploma and certificate programs focus on specialized skills, making these pathways suitable for professionals who would like to build their skill-set.
• Resume improvement: Job applicants who are unable to secure work in their chosen field may get a much-needed resume boost from earning a diploma or certificate online.

Careers That Require a Certificate

In some careers, job candidates must earn a professional certificate or diploma; these requirements often stem from federal government mandates, and job-seekers will not be considered for employment until they have obtained these credentials. Below you will find detailed information on some common professional certifications that employers require or strongly prefer, as well as salary expectations for certification recipients.

Certified Nurse Assistant - Median Salary: $29,174

Nurse assistants support patients at healthcare facilities under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs). They often collect patient data and perform routine tests prior to examinations or medical procedures. The CNA is awarded to nurse assistants who complete their nursing competency exam, which is required in all 50 states. Some states may include additional certification requirements, such as background checks and/or continuing education courses for recertification.

Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPHT) - Median Salary: $38,689

Pharmacy technicians provide prescription medication to patients and physicians; most work in pharmacies or hospitals. The pharmacy technician profession is regulated in most (but not all) U.S. states. In most cases, certification prerequisites for pharmacy technicians include a high school diploma or GED, an undergraduate certificate or diploma, a passing score on a state-issued exam, a background check, and continuing education expectations. According to the BLS, employers will often reimburse pharmacy technicians for earning certification.

Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) - Median Salary: $39,942

Massage therapists must be licensed or certified in 45 U.S. states and the District of Columbia; in some states where certification or licensure is not required, regulations exist at the local level. In order to become an LMT, massage therapists must usually complete an approved undergraduate certificate program and sit for an exam; this exam may be a state-issued exam or the federal Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx).

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) - Median Salary: $46,323

This credential for medical coding professionals is offered through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Coders are not required by law to be certified, but most employers prefer to hire candidates that have completed a certificate program. The curriculum for the CPC credential will include training in the CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code sets.

Dental Assistant - Median Salary: $34,727

Some states require dental assistants to be certified, while other states do not regulate the profession whatsoever. Certification is awarded to candidates who have finished an accredited certificate program, passed a state-issued exam, and worked in the industry for a set number of months or years; these requirements vary from state to state. Additionally, some dental assistants must receive training in radiography (or x-ray) equipment before they can become certified.

Automotive Service Technician / Mechanic - Median Salary: $51,094

The certification requirements for service technicians and mechanics vary by specific occupation. Those who directly handle refrigerants must be certified in proper refrigerant handling, per regulations from the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Service technicians are not required by law to earn a certification, but most need to be certified in order to be hired. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is considered the standard credential for this profession; in order to be certified, candidates must have at least two years of educational or professional experience, and must also pass a qualifying exam.

Types of Online Students

Due to the wide range of certificates and diplomas that are available online, these pathways attract a wide range of students types. These include the students profiled below:

How to Choose an Online Certificate Program

Students who are considering an online diploma or certificate should weigh several factors before settling on which institution to attend. Some of the most important variables include:

Types of Certificates and Diplomas

Choosing between certificate and diploma programs will often depend on whether a student identifies as a Career Starter or a Career Accelerator. Programs for Career Starters are usually foundational in nature, and designed to prepare inexperienced students for the workforce. Likewise, programs for Career Accelerators are aimed at students with some work experience, and are a little more advanced in focus.

The following certifications are among the most popular pathways for Career Accelerators and Career Starters:

Is It Better to Attend an Online Certificate Program in My State?

According to a poll by Online Learning Survey (see graphic below), more than half of online students choose to live in the same state as the college or university they are attending. The leading reason for this is tuition, since a large number of schools level lower tuition rates for in-state students than those who reside in a different state. CollegeBoard recently found that the average in-state tuition rate at a U.S. public university is $10,560 per year, while the average out-of-state tuition rate is $27,020 per year. Though, it should be noted that due to current IP tracking technology, online students are unable to reside out-of-state and claim status as in-state students.

However, a growing number of institutions have begun to offer flat tuition rates for all online students, regardless of whether they live in- our out-of-state. Additionally, students may save money on tuition thanks to state authorization reciprocity programs, which reduce the tuition rates for out-of-state students that live in the same general region as the school where they are enrolled. One example of this is the Midwest Student Exchange Program, a reciprocity agreement that lowers tuition for students from nine different Midwestern U.S. states; in order to qualify for reduced tuition under this program, students attend MSEP partner schools.

There are other reasons for attending in-state schools, including:

• Proximity to the student's family home, which may allow them to live with their parents while earning their diploma or certificate.
• Notable diplomas or certificates at local institutions that are not offered everywhere.
• Positive name recognition for an in-state college or university.
• Attending classes with friends and/or family members.
• Access to on-campus resources.
• Unique scholarships, grants, and/or fellowships.

What's the Difference Between Public and Private Schools?

When it comes to selecting a certificate or diploma online program, most — if not all — available options will be offered at public two- and four-year colleges and universities. In many cases, two-year community and technical colleges will provide the largest assortment of options. However, there are a small number of private junior colleges in the U.S., and one of these institutions may be the most suitable option for obtaining a certificate or diploma.

The biggest difference between public and private schools is funding. Public colleges and universities are financed by the federal government. Private colleges, on the other hand, receive the bulk of their funding through donors and grants, as well as tuition, campus housing, administrative fees, and other campus costs. As a result, private schools tend to be smaller in size and student population; classes rarely exceed 30 students.

In contrast, public universities tend to be larger in size and student population. Tuition is another significant difference. According to NCES data from the 2017-18 academic year, average annual tuition rates nationwide were $17,797 for public schools and $46,014 for private schools. Additionally, many private schools do not offer the same level of athletics and extracurricular programs as public schools.

These differences are important to consider — but for most students seeking an online diploma or certificate, most (if not all) institutions offering their desired credential will be publicly funded institutions.

What's the Difference Between For-Profit and Nonprofit Schools?

A for-profit school is defined as any degree-granting institution that operates as a profit-seeking business. In doing so, the school markets its product (education) to the public and seeks positive financial returns for the school's shareholders. Not-for-profit schools, by comparison, do not generate returns for investors; instead, all profits are channeled used to pay faculty salaries, support on-campus facilities, create student resources, and cover other institutional costs.

The term 'for-profit institution' has made headlines in recent years. Many have been criticized for below-average academic programs and poor student outcomes associated with employment, salary, and debt default (or the inability to keep up with student loan payments due to low employment). Some for-profit schools have also been accused of predatory marketing tactics that target lower-income students and promise career success through their degree programs.

It should be noted this bad press has been primarily concentrated on a small number of institutions; roughly 60 have been closed in the last decade, but more than 100 remain open to the public. Academic experts have also identified a few benefits associated with attending for-profit colleges and universities. Tuition, for example, is typically lower at for-profit schools.

The NCES notes that the average student at a for-profit institution paid $26,261 in tuition during the 2017-18 academic year; this number is slightly higher than the average annual tuition price at a four-year public university, and much lower than the average tuition price found at private colleges. Admission rates are also much higher at for-profit schools, making them more likely to accept students than not-for-profit institutions with stricter admission requirements.

Here's a good rule to follow: any college that has current accreditation, publishes somewhat favorable student outcomes, and offers a diploma or certificate program in the student's desired field should be considered an acceptable choice, regardless of whether the institution generates a profit for investors or not. More information about accreditation can be found later in this guide.

Is an Online Certification as Good as an On-Campus Certification?

Due to the relatively low number of credits in diploma and certificate programs and recent advances in educational technology, the differences between online and on-campus programs are minimal. Online learning is more popular with today's students.

71.4% OF ACADEMIC LEADERS VIEW LEARNING OUTCOMES – THE SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE A STUDENT IS EXPECTED TO ATTAIN – FROM ONLINE CLASSES AS COMPARABLE OR SUPERIOR TO FACE-TO-FACE COURSES

Attitudes toward online learning have shifted among both students and faculty members in the last few years. While a select number of employers still prefer to hire those who receive their certificate or diploma from brick-and-mortar institutions, companies as a whole have also changed their tune about online students.

For those seeking a certificate or diploma online, name recognition is an important consideration; some schools have earned positive reputations in certain industries, and those who receive diplomas or certificates from these institutions will likely be considered for top jobs in their industry regardless of whether they studied online or on-campus. Curriculum is another key factor, particularly in fields that tend to include a large amount of hands-on training. A good rule of thumb is to prioritize online programs that closely — if not identically — mirror the diploma and certificate curricula found at the school's brick-and-mortar campus.

Why Accreditation is Key

Accreditation is essential when choosing where to earn an online diploma or certificate. Accreditation is a comprehensive vetting process that evaluates degree-granting institutions based on their academic programs, faculty members, student outcomes, and available resources on and off campus. The accreditation process can take several months — up to a year, in some cases.

In the United States, three types of accreditation are awarded to colleges and universities. The first is regional accreditation, which is normally reserved for academic institutions; a total of six regional accreditors confer this type of accreditation to schools nationwide. The second, national accreditation, is normally bestowed upon technical colleges, vocational schools, and for-profit institutions. There are 10 regional accreditors that have been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. While they employ similar measures, regional accreditors are considered better than national accreditors in terms of the standards they adhere to when evaluating schools.

The third type of accreditation is programmatic accreditation, which is awarded to specialized schools or subdivisions at larger colleges and universities. More than 1,200 community and junior colleges nationwide are accredited by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Additionally, diploma and certificate programs in select fields — such as nursing or health education — may also receive programmatic accreditation. Online and blended programs do not require any special accreditation distinction; instead, students should defer to their school's regional/national and/or programmatic accreditation status.

Two official bodies recognize accreditors: the Department of Education (DOE), which is part of the federal government; and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), a non-profit organization. These bodies awards do not award accreditation on their own, but rather monitor and evaluate accrediting agencies. Both the DOE and the CHEA maintain full lists of all recognized regional, national, and programmatic accreditors.

Applying to Certificate and Diploma Programs

Every certificate and diploma program feature a different application process. Prospective learners should plan to dedicate several months in order to complete all of the necessary application requirements. This final section will cover some of the most critical steps.

What You Need to Apply: