Certificates and diplomas are two separate programs offered by educational institutions, and it can become quite confusing since some institutions use the terms interchangeably. They differ from degrees since the length of program is a lot shorter, they are cheaper and there is often more flexibility in terms of when classes take place. They do not hold the same weight as an academic degree though since the duration of the program is shorter.

Certificates normally take a year or less to finish. They are designed to certify that students have met specific requirements to perform a particular skill relating to an area of study (ranging from IT skills, business, legal, medical, and vocational training, for example). There is normally no pre-requisite course required before you can enroll in a certificate program. Students enrolled in a program normally face written, oral or practical tests in order to successfully complete their certificate.

Diplomas are another form of education that a student can take post-secondary school. High school students are also awarded a diploma (the General Education Development Test (GED)) upon completion of their schooling. A number of colleges also offer courses for adults to complete their GED. Adult education diplomas can be completed at a traditional brick and mortar college or through an online institution or a trade and vocational school. A diploma generally holds more credence then a certificate does.