Certificate, Diploma, or Degree: Finding the Right Fit

There are a variety of program options to choose from in college. Do you know which one is best for you?

With so many programs and options to choose from, deciding what credential is right for you can be tough. Allow us to break down the differences between certificates, diplomas and degrees to help you find the right fit!

So, what are certificates?

Ranging from 1-2 years, Certificate programs are like taking the fast track to joining the workforce. These programs develop your skills and knowledge to help you excel in specific tasks and roles in your field.

Ontario College Graduate Certificate (OCGC) programs build on the knowledge and experience you acquired through your postsecondary studies and allow you to enhance your existing skills and gain better practical experience to gain a competitive career advantage.

Think of Graduate Certificates as the cherry on top. If you just graduated, you’ll get an even bigger leg up on the competition by earning a specialisation. For example, if you graduated from AC’s Advertising and Marketing Communications program with an Advanced Diploma, you’ll be eligible to earn a Graduate Certificate in Brand Management. Piece of cake, right?

Sweet. What’s a diploma?

Diplomas are 2- or 3-year programs that provide solid knowledge and practical experience. These bad boys set you up for a long, successful career in their specific field. They come in two different flavours: regular or advanced.

Regular diplomas help prepare you for a specific field of work and include a broad base of study, which enables graduates to pursue various career specialties. Advanced diplomas deepen your knowledge, skills, and attitudes to empower you to work within a broad range of technical and/or management functions across many occupational areas.

Essentially, Advanced Diplomas are more specialised than its regular counterpart because they often have a co-op or internship component. You’ll be able to put your skills to the test and practice what you learned out in the real world, with other industry professionals.

Alright, explain degrees.

A bachelor’s degree is the first designation you'll pursue if you’re studying at the university level but you can get one in College too. Yessiree! Algonquin College is proud to offer dozens of degree programs. Get the best of both worlds!

Degrees provide theoretical and practical experience. Over the course of four years (minimum), you’ll be hard at work, learning both theory and practical hands-on experience. Complete with co-op terms and applied research, what’s not to love?

We know we’ve given you lots to consider but, just know that no matter what path you choose, you have a bright future ahead of you.