Getting a higher certificate is a great option for students who want practical skills without committing to a several years of study. It gives specific knowledge to jump into a job or switch careers in less time than a degree. As the job market keeps changing and companies look for people with specialised skills, more people are turning to these programmes. A definite perk that comes with higher certificate courses is that upon completion you graduate with a standalone NQF5 qualification which opens doors to employment. A certificate holder is also able to study towards a diploma or degree later. That’s why they are often called “pathway-to-degree programmes”.
What is a higher certificate?
A higher certificate is a quick way to snag practical skills for a specific job or enhance your existing skills in a particular role. The time commitment for higher certificate programmes is lower than other programmes. They usually run for about six months to a year. They focus on hands-on training in fields like business, law, IT, healthcare and hospitality so you get practical education without diving too deep into theory. Unlike associate degrees or diplomas that take longer, higher certificates get you into the workforce fast. They’re also different from bachelor’s degrees, which are more intense and can take three to four years to finish, focusing more on theory than on practical skills.
What are the academic and career benefits?
So what are the real benefits of higher certificate programmes? They can boost your academic game, you get to explore specific subjects and pick up hands-on skills along the way. These programmes are usually wrapped up in about a year, so you can obtain those qualifications and jump into your chosen field without spending ages studying. Career opportunities with a higher certificate? Higher certificates are a fast track to getting into the job market, which is perfect if you want to kick-start or change your career quickly. Many graduates find themselves moving up the ladder or landing jobs that need those specialised skills. These programmes can lead to industry-specific certifications, which can enhance your employability and help you grow in your career.
Cost-effectiveness and accessibility
The cost of higher certificate programmes is significantly lower than traditional study options. With lower tuition and shorter study times, you can keep your living expenses down too. Since these programmes are shorter, you can jump into the job market sooner, which means you start earning money faster and spend less on your education overall. Also these programmes are often more accessible. Many institutions offer part-time and online options, which are perfect for those already in the workforce but looking to boost their skills and expertise.
Industry recognition and employment prospects
More employers in different fields are starting to see higher certificates as a big deal. These qualifications give candidates the specific skills they need to hit the ground running. In areas like IT, business, healthcare and hospitality, hiring managers are impressed by the hands-on approach of these programmes because they help employees jump straight into work and get the job done, with less need for training and mentoring. Research backs this up, showing that people with higher certificates have a higher likelihood of landing jobs.
Higher certificate vs diploma and degree?
- Learning outcomes: higher certificates offer hands-on skills that employers want right away. Diplomas mix theory with practical know-how, covering a wider range of topics. Degrees dive deep into academics and research, giving you that expert edge.
- Career paths: higher certificates can kick-start your career with specialised entry-level jobs, letting you jump into the workforce faster. Diplomas can land you mid-level jobs in tech or other industries. Degrees open doors to a variety of roles, including management and higher positions.
- Lifelong earning potential: higher certificates might help you earn quicker in the short run but they usually don’t stack up to the earning power of degrees over the long term. Diplomas can give you decent earnings with a good chance for growth. Degrees often lead to the best pay and career progression over time.
A higher certificate is a good choice if you need a job quickly, want to upskill at speed, or want to specialise in something specific. Diplomas or degrees are better suited for those seeking a wider range of career options, academic advancement or higher-level and higher-paying roles.
What are the potential drawbacks to a higher certificate?
- Narrower job options: getting a higher certificate might not cut it for landing those top-tier or management positions since some fields want a diploma or degree under your belt.
- Seen as less impressive: in certain industries, higher certificates can come off as not as valuable as degrees, which could hold you back when trying to climb the career ladder.
- More studying required: many fields, especially those that need specific skills or certifications like healthcare or engineering, often expect you to pursue further education beyond just a higher certificate if you want to grow or secure those higher-level jobs.
How to make the right choice for you
Figuring out if a higher certificate is the way to go for your education comes down to your own career dreams, financial situation and how you like to learn. If you're thinking about it, ask yourself some key questions: what skills or knowledge do I want to gain? How fast do I want to jump into the job scene? What are my big career goals down the line? Chat with academic advisors to give you advice on how useful higher certificates are in your field and help you see if this route fits with what you want to achieve both personally and professionally.
Higher certificate programmes can be a great way to pick up specialised skills quickly and get into the job market without breaking the bank. They’re also great to hone skills in an existing role. However, there might be some downsides, like such certificates not being recognised in certain industries or being viewed differently compared to traditional degrees. Do your homework and think about how these programmes fit with your career aspirations, budget, personal circumstances and learning style before you commit.
About The IIE’s Varsity College
The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE) of which Varsity College is a brand, is South Africa’s largest registered and accredited private provider of higher education. At Varsity College we understand that no two students are the same or learn the same. That’s why we make sure a student’s education is shaped around them; how they like to learn, what they are passionate about, what makes them tick, and what makes them thrive. Our Education by Design approach allows students to grow into their best, and creates a space where they can live, learn and play – their way.