By forexlibrary 
You may feel more confused than Natalie Imbruglia in the late ’90s when choosing which postgraduate degree you want to pursue. We help you understand what graduate certificates and graduate diplomas mean and how they compare with master’s degrees.
It can be not easy to return to university, especially if you haven’t been in the program for a while. You may feel overwhelmed by the constantly expanding job market.
This transitional period doesn’t have to be frightening. There is no right or wrong way to choose a postgraduate program. Each postgraduate program is valuable and can be used for different purposes.
Let’s look at the most popular postgrad programs and see the differences between a graduate certificate and a diploma.
Graduate diploma vs graduate certificate
The key differences are time, money, and personal preference.
The big questions to ask if you are stuck between a graduate certificate and a graduate diploma dilemma include:
- How long are you willing and able to spend?
- What are their benefits?
- What path is best for you?
Graduate certificate
How long is a graduate certificate
The fastest route to graduate programs is via a graduate certificate. A grad certificate has many benefits, but the most important is its ability to give you a taste of your chosen field of study without requiring long time frames. For full-time students, a graduate certificate takes 6 months. This is a great bridge to new skills or career changes.
What is the cost of a graduate certificate
A graduate certificate is often the most affordable option. It usually costs half as much as a graduate diploma and lasts for half the time. A grad certificate is an option for those concerned about the cost of postgraduate studies. It does not require you to take on additional debt.
What is a graduate certificate
Get a certificate as a graduate if you are:
- You want to improve your industry knowledge and feel more confident at work
- You’re Uncertain about the field or industry you want to specialize in
- You want to improve your professional skills quickly.
How long does a graduate diploma take
A graduate diploma is more complicated than a certificate. It can take up to one year with full-time studies.
A grad certificate is a preview of a new area or field of study. However, a grad diploma gives you a deeper understanding of the subject and allows for comprehensive study.
What is the cost of a graduate degree
A graduate diploma takes longer and focuses more on one subject than a certificate. This means that tuition fees can be slightly higher than for a certificate. Comparing the course content of the two is key to determining if the extra learning experience is worth it.
Personal preference
Study a graduate diploma if:
- You can dedicate more time to learning and will be able to benefit from the additional courses
- You’re Confident in your future field of study
- You are interested in developing industry-specific connections and skills.
Final thoughts
What’s the consensus? Grad cert vs grad dip. Who wins?
You’ve probably already guessed it, but you have the power to make your decision.
Each has its own merits. It all comes down to personal preference and how much time you’re willing to dedicate.
A graduate certificate is a great way to start your postgraduate journey if you are looking for a quicker qualification. A graduate diploma is a better choice if you have the funds.