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Canada is one of the world’s top five study abroad countries, and it’s easy to see why. Home to some of the world’s top academic institutions, international students will love its competitive post-graduation work opportunities and Canada’s welcoming and inclusive environment. International students also come to Canada because the country’s education system offers diverse and flexible post-secondary study options. However, it can be confusing to understand the difference between degreesÌý±¹²õ. diplomasÌý±¹²õ. certificates. We’re here to explain these terms, and help you choose the right study path for your goals.

Universities, Colleges, and Vocational Schools

First, let’s take a quick look at different kinds of postsecondary institutions.

Universities: From small liberal arts universities to research-focused institutions, international students studying in Canada can choose the university that most closely aligns with their goals. Universities in Canada offer a range of degrees that are respected and recognized around the world, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate degrees (PhDs).

Colleges: Colleges offer an applied, technical education to give students the tools to excel in a specialized field. With smaller class sizes, students can get more one-to-one time with their instructors and benefit from a hands-on approach.

Vocational Schools: Vocational schools offer job-ready programs designed to prepare students for success in a specific occupation. These schools may also be known as career, technical, or trade schools.

Degrees vs Diplomas vs Certificates

Now, let’s look at the differences between degrees, diplomas, and certificates in Canada.

Degrees

A student can earn a degree at the university level, although some colleges also now offer bachelor’s degrees.

Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree is the first level of study a student will pursue if they’re studying at a university. Many colleges now also offer bachelor’s degrees. Most bachelor’s degrees are four years of full-time study, although there are some three-year bachelor’s degrees and two-year associate’s degrees.

• Length: 3 to 4 years
• Study level: undergraduate
• Academic prerequisites: high school diploma
• Offered by: universities and some colleges

Learn more about

Master’s Degree

A student can pursue a master’s degree after they finish a bachelor’s degree for further specialization in their field of study. A master’s degree can be course-based, like a Master of Business Administration (MBA), or research-based.

• Length: 1 to 2 years
• Study level: graduate
• Academic prerequisites: a bachelor’s degree
• Offered by: universities

Doctorate/PhD

After completing a master’s degree, a student can opt to obtain a doctorate degree or PhD, the highest level of education in Canada and at most universities around the world. These programs are usually research-based and students will need to secure a research supervisor at their chosen university.

• Length: 3 to 7 years
• Study level: graduate
• Academic prerequisites: a master’s degree
• Offered by: universities

Diplomas

Diplomas set students up for success in a specific field or occupation and are offered at the college level. When considering degree. vs diploma, think about what your career goals are, and how much getting hands-on experience in your field matters to your career growth. There are three types of diplomas a student can earn in Canada.

Regular Diploma

A regular diploma sets students up for success in a specific field or occupation.

• Study level: undergraduate
• Length: two years
• Academic prerequisites: high school diploma
• Offered by: colleges

Advanced Diploma

An advanced diploma is more specialized than a regular diploma because it often has a co-op or internship. This is a unique opportunity for you to apply your skills to real-world scenarios, network within the industry, and start building your resume.

• Length: 3 years
• Study level: Undergraduate
• Academic prerequisites: high school diploma
• Offered by: colleges

Graduate Diploma

Students can pursue a graduate diploma after completing a regular or advanced diploma, or a bachelor’s degree. A graduate diploma offers students a combination of classroom training and hands-on experience.

• Length: 1 to 2 years
• Study level: graduate
• Academic prerequisites: regular/advanced diploma or a bachelor’s degree
• Offered by: colleges

Diplomas can prepare you for many future-facing careers. Accelerate your career with one of these Canadian short-term study programs.

Certificates

Certificates are granted after a student finishes a short course. A student will often pursue a certificate program for professional development, or to build on a previously earned credential.  

• Length: usually less than a year
• Study level: undergraduate
• Offered by: universities, colleges, and vocational schools
• Academic prerequisites: high school diploma

Read our blog post, Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit: Validity and Application 101, to learn about which postsecondary programs meet (PGWP) eligibility requirements.

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Now that you have a better understanding of what degrees vs diplomas, vs certificates, offer, you’re a little more ready for your own study abroad journey. Whether you choose a short upskilling program, or dive into a degree, your future is waiting. Here’s to taking your next step!

Ready to start your study abroad adventure in Canada? Explore top programs on ApplyBoard!