What is the difference between a degree and a diploma?

If you are unsure of which type of study program to choose – a degree or a diploma – you are on the right page.

A degree or a diploma can help, depending on your career goals, interests, and educational background.

Diploma vs degree programs

What is a diploma course?

A diploma course is a short-duration academic program or training which focuses on specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in a particular area of study. It prepares students who are about to start their career in a specific domain and is completed within 1-2 years.

Types of diploma programs

There are two types of diploma programs:

Undergraduate level: You should have completed 10th or 12th to be eligible for an undergraduate diploma program. You can pursue an undergraduate diploma if you are certain about the particular skillset you wish to acquire rather than exploring various study fields.

Postgraduate level: You should have completed your undergraduate (bachelor’s degree) to be eligible for a postgraduate diploma program. This will help you enhance your preexisting knowledge and skills.

Also read: PG Diploma courses in Canada

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Advantages of diploma courses

These are the following advantages of diploma courses- 

• Enrollment into diploma programs is comparatively easy because of less stringent requirements and eligibility than a degree program.
• It has a flexible curriculum with more focus on practical skills. If your main motive is skill development, then a diploma is a better choice. 
• It allows you to build an impressive portfolio through hands-on experience.
• It is of shorter duration, so you can finish a diploma course in a couple of years and get into a job.
• It is more affordable than degree programs.
• Diploma courses are vocational and hence prepare you for employment keeping in mind the latest trends in the industry.

Disadvantages of diploma courses

• With a diploma, you gain expertise only in specific skills, rather than dabbling at many. 
• If you want to specialize and gain in-depth knowledge, you will have to go for a full-time or master's degree. 
• Employers give more preference to graduates or master's degree holders when it comes to jobs. A diploma may not carry the same prestige or recognition as a degree does.
• Diploma holders are likely to receive a lower salary than degree holders.
• As a diploma holder, climbing the corporate ladder can be difficult if you do not keep upskilling yourself.

What are degree programs?

A degree program is a formal academic program that has a vast curriculum and offers theoretical and practical knowledge on a broad range of topics. It usually spans 3-4 years and is for a longer duration than a diploma. 

If you wish to explore multiple disciplines before committing to one, then pursuing a degree would be a better choice. It is a prerequisite for most careers and is also necessary for advancement in jobs, increased pay, and gaining knowledge and expertise.

Degree programs can vary in length, intensity, and specialization depending on the degree level and specific discipline.

Want to discover the best course and destination to study abroad? Connect with Edvoy today!

Types of degree programs

There are four types of degree programs:

Associate: An associate degree prepares you to enter the workplace immediately upon graduation. These programs are mostly taught at community and technical colleges and typically last 1-2 years. You may have to complete an internship or practicum in addition to taking classes.

Bachelor’s: A bachelor's degree is for 3 years (Arts, Humanities) or 4 years (Engineering, BPT), depending on the discipline. It provides foundational knowledge in various fields. It is a prerequisite for most careers.

Master’s: A master's degree is 2 years long and you can pursue it only after completing a bachelor's degree. It offers in-depth knowledge in a particular area, such as a master's in business administration or a master's in psychology.

Doctorate: A doctoral degree is the highest level of education you can pursue. Doctoral degrees can be pursued after a master’s degree is completed. It involves conducting original research and contributing new knowledge to the field.

Read more: Reasons a masters degree could be right for you

Advantages of degree programs

• A degree equips you with both practical and theoretical knowledge.
• A degree makes you a ‘jack of all trades’; it provides a comprehensive and all-rounded development.
• Having a degree offers you better job prospects and also gives you a competitive edge in the market.
• With a degree, you can expect a higher salary as compared to a diploma holder.
• After a bachelor’s you can pursue higher education degrees such as a master’s and doctorate or enroll yourself in a PG diploma course.
• Pursuing a degree provides you with an opportunity to network and build connections.
• A degree not only helps you achieve academic excellence, it also helps in personal growth. You tend to improve your communication skills, critical thinking, and negotiation skills.

Also read: Highest paying masters degree

Disadvantages of degree programs

• Pursuing a degree can be quite expensive. You might have to take loans and manage finances accordingly. 
• Due to the extensive curriculum, degrees span over 3-4 years, making it time-consuming. You must stay committed to studying.
• Degrees are academically rigorous. It’s important to find hobbies and stress busters to enjoy your studies.
• While most employers prefer degrees, some prefer skills. Diplomas are preferred over degrees for careers in digital marketing, photography, fashion design, etc.
• Having a degree does not guarantee a job. You must keep working on your skills and networking to be able to secure a stable and secure job. 
• There is a possibility that you might select the wrong degree and subsequently decide to change your career direction.

Read more: Will my arts degree get me a job?

Are you unsure between choosing a degree or a diploma? Edvoy is here to help. Book a session to get expert guidance for free.

FAQs:

1. What is the difference between a diploma and a degree?

The major distinctions are in the length of the course and the learning objectives. Degrees are a longer form of education that usually offer thorough information on a wide range of topics, whilst diplomas are for a shorter duration and offer hands-on training and practical experience.

2. How long does it take to earn a diploma or degree?

Depending on the type (undergraduate or postgraduate), a diploma program can be finished in 1-2 years and a degree program in 3-4 years. It varies according to the field of study and educational institution.

3. What is the cost of earning a diploma or degree?

The cost of earning a diploma or degree can vary widely depending on several factors such as the type of institution (public vs. private), the location (in-state vs. out-of-state or international), the duration of the program, and the field of study. However, it usually ranges from USD 18,000 to USD 165,800.

4. What are the job prospects for someone with a diploma or degree?

Compared to others, those with degrees are in greater demand and have better career prospects. Degrees in the humanities and arts are less likely to lead to opportunities than those in technology, healthcare, and engineering. Job prospects can be greatly enhanced by gaining practical experience through internships and other appropriate work experience.

5. What are the different levels of degrees?

The associate's (usually 2 years) and bachelor's (usually 3-4 years) degree levels provide foundational knowledge, while the master's (usually 1-3 years) and doctoral degrees (highest, involving research) degree levels provide advanced knowledge and research capabilities.

6. Diploma vs degree: which is better?

While degrees are better for occupations requiring in-depth specialization in a particular topic, diplomas are better for fields that demand more practical experience than academic understanding. For instance, an MBA or degree in engineering will be helpful, as well as a diploma in media and public communication.