Graduate certifications are not as popular as getting a full master’s degree. But what are the advantages to receiving a certification instead of a full master’s degree? Individual courses for a graduate certification at a master degree level can be used towards finalizing your master’s program now or at a later date. One example for this would be someone who needs a certification for work but does not want to fully commit to a master’s program. Taking those certification classes first will allow a student to finish up their master’s degree later, if they choose to do so.
- Generally, it takes 15 credits or so to complete (Four to five classes)
- Completion time is normally one or two semesters
- You can use these courses towards a master’s degree now, or at a later time
- Saves money in the long run and can be better budgeted
- Allows you to get the accreditation needed to get back in the workforce
- Some employers see this as an advantage on resumes
- Use as a skill set for now, finalize later with your masters
- Costs will be half of what a full masters degree would be normally
- Is considered a diploma, not a degree
