With so many different study options available, from certificate, diploma or advanced diploma, it can be hard to decipher what type of qualification is best suited to you.
Do you choose a diploma or degree? The best level of qualification for you will depend on your career goals, past work experience and time commitments. Let’s explain the Australian Qualifications Framework and take a look at what could be the right path for you.
The Australian Qualifications Framework is a system that divides qualifications into ten different levels, depending on the course complexity, how difficult the qualification is to obtain, and the level of independence students require to complete the course. It considers the depth of knowledge gained, the technical skills levels received and how knowledge is used in the real world.
Common qualifications are Certificate IV (level 4 AQF), Diploma (level 5 AQF), Advanced Diploma and Associate Degree (level 6 AQF).
Certificate IV qualifications are often undertaken by students who wish to begin their career journey with well-rounded knowledge in a single area. It’s a natural progression from other certificates such as I, II and III and provides a solid foundation for entering the workforce upon graduation or continuing further study if desired.
Certificate qualifications are heavily practical, coupled with important theoretical content. They are an excellent choice for those with limited or no experience in their chosen field as a way to start their future career with a broad range of skills.
A certificate qualification is earned when a student chooses to specialise in a single skill set or industry area. Plumbers, electricians, and other trades will fall into this category but can also include literature, business, and technological fields. The study will often be restricted to a single field and will require a large amount of practical training which can often take the form of an apprenticeship. For study other than trades, certificates are an excellent pathway to take if you do not have previous experience in the field of study or want to test the waters of an industry, for example – a Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (BSB40920)
Certificates are advantageous for many reasons, including:
Certificates are cost-effective and take the least amount of time to complete, which can be a great benefit to anyone who needs a qualification in a short amount of time. Many people who did not enjoy school find they thrive doing a certificate course suited to their interests.
Diplomas are a natural step up from a certificate and are one of the common levels of qualifications for a variety of industries.
Diplomas are ideal for those seeking a career change or school leavers looking to begin their tertiary studies. They focus on highly practical skills that are applied directly to the workplace. Those already working in the field often choose diploma qualifications to increase their skills and be a contender for senior opportunities within their industry.
Diplomas combine technical skills training with applied theory. ‘Applied theory’ refers to a more advanced way of working where critical thinking is used to make decisions grounded in real-world facts. Critical thinking skills give graduates an advantage over others who complete solely theoretical training.
Diplomas, while similar to certificates, often take slightly longer to complete but are more technical and in-depth. Studying for a diploma requires a thorough look into your chosen field, and some experience in your chosen field is preferred. Vocational education in the form of a diploma will allow you to practice the skills you are learning while you study.
Benefits of a diploma include:
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An advanced diploma builds on the diploma qualification, with learning materials and more advanced outcomes than a diploma. It’s a highly regarded course for those looking at securing senior management or leadership positions in the future.
Advanced diplomas offer an excellent choice for those with significant work experience in their industry, looking to formalise and upskill their expertise. A great way to fast-track your career, advanced diplomas focus on practical education alongside theoretical, conceptual and problem-solving skills. The course provides students with advanced skills such as planning, decision making and critical analysis. Therefore, Advanced diploma graduates are eligible for highly skilled and challenging roles in their chosen industry.
An advanced diploma sits at level 6 of the Australian Quality Framework. This is just below a bachelor degree at level 7 AQF and above a diploma at level 5 AQF
Degrees come in many different forms including associate’s (two years full-time), bachelor’s (three to four years full-time), master’s (two years beyond a bachelor’s degree), and doctoral, which is completed several years after a master’s degree. Studying for a degree can in some specific fields lead to more opportunities, as degrees cover a broader range of theoretical knowledge over a longer study period. Degrees are in allocated slots of semesters or trimesters, with mostly face-to-face and some online learning options available.
Degrees can be beneficial because:
A degree is not the most cost-effective study option however it is a worthwhile long-term investment into your future and your career.
Both advanced diplomas and associate degrees are at level 6 AQF. The main difference is that advanced diplomas are highly practical and offer a real-world application. In contrast, associate degrees comprise more theoretical course material.
Employers highly regard both qualifications. advanced diplomas are often favoured over degrees due to graduates being job-ready, with the well-rounded skills needed to hit the ground running in the workplace.
Those who complete a degree often need up to 12 months to learn the practical nature of their role, to accompany the theoretical skills they received during their course.
Advanced diplomas are an excellent choice for those looking to secure a dream role and be employable from graduation (or even while doing the course). The advanced skills received means that graduates are more likely to be considered for senior roles or promotion opportunities as they arise.
Modern technology has made it increasingly easier to undertake study online. Students can make their education flexible for their situation. If maintaining a job while studying is a requirement for you, studying online will allow you to do so. You’ll be able to work during the day and study after hours or on weekends. Like traditional study, online courses can also be done part-time or full-time, meaning the length of completion is up to the student.
Each level of study has many differences and similarities. It is crucial to consider these differences when making your decision. Before deciding on which level of qualification is best for you, make sure you weigh up the benefits of each and how they will help you, including how online study will benefit your overall work/study/life balance.
