Diplomas are courses that cover a single subject and are generally more professional qualifications than certificates. For these qualifications, students complete modules on a certain topic, which normally involves a combination of classroom and practical learning. Students often obtain diplomas if they wish to work in a particular industry and this can be an excellent option for individuals who wish to complete further training but have no interest in gaining a university degree. Students can also earn a diploma when undertaking an apprenticeship, which they can study for while completing on-the-job learning.
A diploma typically takes between one and two years to complete. You can usually study for a diploma full-time through a technical school or vocational college, with the exact fees depending on the subject and industry. Completing a diploma can give you a more comprehensive understanding of a specific subject, alongside allowing you to develop more advanced skills, which can enable you to enter the industry of your choice at a higher level than if you just had a certificate.