Our Certificate & Online Programs

Our Certificate & Online Programs

The terms diploma and certificate refer to academic credentials awarded to students who complete vocational (or job-training) programs in different subjects. Both diplomas and certificates are available at community colleges, technical and vocational schools, and select undergraduate colleges and universities. Although some institutions use the terms interchangeably, diploma programs tend to be longer and more comprehensive than certificate programs.

Certificates and diplomas are each designed for completion within two years, making them both shorter alternatives to the associate degree. They are a popular educational pathway among high school graduates who wish to receive relevant job training and enter the workforce without completing a full degree program, as well as established professionals seeking higher salaries and more advancement opportunities. The popularity of certificates and diplomas has risen in recent years. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 955,000 undergraduate certificates were conferred during the 2017-18 academic year.

On-Campus Full time

Benefits

• Unrestricted access to libraries, computer labs, writing centers, and other on-campus resources that may be off-limits to distance learners
• Coursework will incorporate hands-on training, usually in the form of labs and/or practicum sessions
• Students can regularly meet with professors, academic advisers, and other faculty members, as well as fellow students

Evening / Weekend classes

Benefits

• Evening and weekend courses may be ideal for students with jobs, childcare responsibilities, and other weekly commitments
• Studies have found that as many as 20% of all students are better learners at night
• Fewer meetings on a weekly basis provide students with more time to study and prepare for scheduled classes

Hybrid / Blended

Benefits

• Many students find that hybrid or blended programs are 'happy mediums' that balance online and on-campus learning
• Most programs utilize playback technology that allows students to access course lectures and activities for online, home-based study sessions.
• Fewer face-to-face meetings will reduce costs related to commuting to/from and parking on campus, and may also eliminate the need for students to live on or near their campus