The level of further study you choose to undertake is an important life decision and not one to take lightly. With so many options, from a certificate, diploma or degree, it is important to weigh up the benefits and the practicalities of each qualification before making your decision.
Benefits of a Certificate
A Certificate qualification is earned when a student chooses to specialise in a single skill set or industry area. Plumbers, electricians, and other trades will fall into this category but can also include literature, business, and technological fields. Study will often be restricted to a single field and will require a large amount of practical training which can often take the form of an apprenticeship. For study other than trades, Certificates are an excellent pathway to take if you do not have previous experience in the field of study or want to test the waters of an industry, for example – a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice(BSB41515)
Certificates are advantageous for many reasons, including:
- Updating your skill level: With constantly changing fields, information, and technology, it can be beneficial to your career to make sure your skills are up-to-date.
- Credibility: Seeking out further qualification will demonstrate your determination and hard work, making you a more credible employee.
- Aptitude: Certificate education will help you complete on the job tasks with increased efficiency due to your advanced skill set and solid foundation.
Certificates are cost-effective and take the least amount of time to complete, which can be a great benefit to anyone who needs a qualification in a short amount of time. Many people who did not enjoy school find they thrive doing a certificate course suited to their interests.
The ins and outs of a Diploma
Diplomas, while similar to Certificates, often take slightly longer to complete but are more technical and in-depth. Studying for a diploma requires a thorough look into your chosen field, and some experience in chosen field is preferred. Vocational education in the form of a diploma will allow you to practice the skills you are learning while you study.
Benefits of a Diploma include:
- Can take a short amount of time to complete
- Skills acquired can be easily implemented in real life situations
- The cost of a diploma is often far less than that of a degree
- Institutions that offer a diploma are not concerned with huge prerequisites or complicated entry processes
- Flexibility is a key benefit to a diploma, as study can be done online and at the discretion of the student
- Courses and units are concentrated on practical skills and knowledge that will directly benefit you in the workforce, rather than theoretical knowledge
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How does a Degree measure up?
Degrees come in many different forms including associate’s (two years full-time), bachelor’s (three to four years full-time), master’s (two years beyond a bachelor’s degree), and doctoral, which is completed several years after a master’s degree. Studying for a degree can in some specific fields lead to more opportunities, as degrees cover a broader range of theoretical knowledge over a longer study period. Degrees are in allocated slots of semesters or trimesters, with mostly face-to-face and some online learning options available.
Degrees can be beneficial because:
- There is potential for higher-earning jobs with some professional careers requiring a degree
- You become desirable and marketable for jobs that exist beyond entry level
- Critical thinking and analysis skills are benefits gained when undertaking a degree
A degree is not the most cost-effective study option however it is a worthwhile long-term investment into your future and your career.
Online study provides a study/life balance
Modern technology has made it increasingly easier to undertake study online. Students can make their education flexible for their situation. If maintaining a job while studying is a requirement for you, studying online will allow you to do so. You’ll be able to work during the day and study after hours or on weekends. Like traditional study, online courses can also be done part-time or full-time, meaning the length of completion is up to the student.
Each level of study has many differences and similarities. It is crucial to consider these differences when making your decision. Before deciding on which level of qualification is best for you, make sure you weigh up the benefits of each and how they will help you, including how online study will benefit your overall work/study/life balance.