Why You Should Consider Getting a Diploma or Certificate Instead of a Degree

For years, the most common way to start a career was getting a four-year degree. Now, with people changing jobs and careers more often, there are alternate options you can explore.

What if you're already on an established career path and it's time for a change? A four-year degree is always an option, but there are also certificates and diplomas that can be valuable - and that lead you on a path to fulfillment in less time than traditional routes.

Diploma vs. Degree

A diploma is achieved after you complete the required work in a specified area or skill. It doesn't require the general courses like a degree does; instead, it focuses more on classes and training relating directly to the specific area of study and can typically be achieved in a year or less.

A degree involves core general education classes, while also focusing more in-depth on the area of specialty. A degree is ideal for someone looking to move beyond entry-level positions or to compound their education with additional higher education.

Determining your career goals is an important first step in helping you decide whether to pursue a diploma or a degree program.

Advantages of getting a diploma

Some diplomas can be completed in as few as 8 months.

Depending on the program, some diplomas can be completed in as few as eight months, allowing you to join the workforce more quickly than those pursuing a bachelor degree.

Learning is flexible

Most diploma-focused education courses can be started at any time of the year because unlike traditional degrees, they don't necessarily have to follow a higher education calendar. Many can also be taken online. In addition, it is possible for you to finish a diploma while still maintaining employment.

Diplomas help you stand out from the competition

Many university degrees will focus on theory-based knowledge. A diploma gives you the opportunity to understand the skills you need while allowing you to put these skills into practice. This will enable you to jump straight into the workforce with the necessary knowledge and capabilities to be a contributing team member in an office or private practice facility.

Finding the Right School for You

If your looking to jump-start your career in the health care industry, Concorde Career Colleges offers programs with diplomas and Associate degrees at an accelerated pace. To find out more contact our Admissions office today!