Difference between Diploma and Graduation
Diploma and Graduation are both certifications awarded by educational institutions after successful completion of a course or program.
The main difference is that diploma is a certificate or academic degree awarded to an individual by an educational institution, organization or a governing body while graduation denotes the completion of a degree program from a recognized university.
Before we move to the differences, let’s understand what are Diploma and Graduation:
- Diploma: A Diploma is a certification awarded by a college or university after successfully completing a specific course or program of study. It is an educational qualification designed to impart specialized knowledge and practical skills in a particular field.
- Graduation: Graduation is the successful completion of a degree program, and earning of a bachelor’s degree or undergraduate degree from a college or university. It is an academic qualification that signifies the completion of studies and demonstrates a student’s proficiency in a particular subject area.
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Now, let’s move to Diploma vs Graduation:
Major differences between Diploma and Graduation
| Diploma | Graduation |
|---|---|
| A Diploma course typically lasts for 1-3 years. | A Graduation course is a full-time course that takes 3-4 years to complete. |
| Diploma is an undergraduate-level certification. | Graduation is a higher level of study that leads to a Bachelor’s degree. |
| A Diploma course focuses on a specific subject. | Graduation offers a broader range of subjects, including general education requirements such as science, math, and humanities. |
| A Diploma opens up employment opportunities in various fields at an entry-level. | A Graduation degree provides better job prospects, higher salary, and opportunities for advancement in management or higher education. |
| Admission to a Diploma course often requires a high school diploma or GED. | Admission to a Graduation degree requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with standardized tests like SAT, ACT or equivalent entrance exams. |
That’s it.
Note that sometimes, the question might also be asked as “distinguish between Diploma and Graduation”.
Also see:
- Difference between ITI and Diploma
- Difference between Diploma and Advanced Diploma
- Difference between Polytechnic and Diploma
Final words
Diploma and Graduation courses vary significantly in duration, intensity of study and scope of the curriculum. While both offer good career prospects, a Graduation degree offers a broader range of employment opportunities and serves as a stepping stone for higher education. On the other hand, a Diploma provides professional education in a specific field and offers faster entry into the job market.
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