What is a Diploma?

A diploma is a higher education program that provides advanced knowledge and practical skills learning in a specific career field. Diploma programs usually last for one- to two years. Community colleges, technical schools and some universities offer diploma programs for a diverse range of students. Working professionals returning to post-secondary education may want to pursue a diploma to enhance their career prospects.  Recent secondary school graduates may choose a diploma as their ticket to an entry-level position in their field, or as a smooth transition into continued higher education study.

What are the benefits of taking a Diploma?

There are a number of distinct benefits to obtaining a diploma. Employers seek out diploma-holders for their demonstrated knowledge and understanding of their field. Students can decide during the course of the diploma program if they would prefer to start working right away upon graduation, or if they would like to try and transfer the credits they earn in a diploma program to a longer-term degree.

What do we study in a Diploma?

There are diploma programs in most academic fields across all disciplines, from the Arts to Business, the Humanities to Technology, the Natural Sciences to Social Sciences and more. Within the discipline, there are highly specific diploma programs, designed to prepare the student for a job in that field. For example, one may choose to get a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education, an International Advanced Diploma in Business Management or a Two-Year Diploma in Hotel and Tourism Management. There are different types of diplomas – diploma, advanced diploma, graduate diploma and postgraduate diploma. The difference has to do with the pre-requisites for study.

What kind of career improvement can you expect with a Diploma?

Graduates from diploma programs can expect to see their career prospects improve almost immediately. This is because employers recognize that graduates with a diploma are more professionally familiar with the key skills, knowledge and ideas that are critical to that industry. Even students with many years of experience in their field can benefit from a diploma, as it proves that the holder is familiar with the most up-to-date methods and techniques in their field.

How much does it cost to take a Diploma?

The cost of obtaining a diploma will vary widely from one school to the other, and depending on the program. Diplomas also vary in their duration, which can also contribute to differences in tuition cost. It is helpful to check with the school offering the diploma program of interest to get more information about the price of diploma study. The school may also be able to provide information about financial assistance, if available. It is possible to contact the school of choice directly using the web form on the program page on this website.

Why take a Diploma program Online?

Ideally suited to those who are working full time, have other scheduling commitments or area living far away from the campus where they wish to obtain their diploma, online diploma programs are an excellent option. Using e-learning technology, students will follow a planned curriculum to study for their diploma online. Teachers can communicate more directly with their students, and also encourage class discussions using forums. After passing a diploma program online, graduates are awarded with the same degree as on-campus or full-time diploma students.