Diploma vs. bachelor's degree: How do they differ?
Securing a job often depends on the level of education you've attained. Malaysia is no different. Diploma courses and degree programmes are the 2 common qualifications here that teach and train people in a specific field. Knowing the difference between the 2 can help you decide which is right for you.
A diploma course is a shorter programme that focuses on imparting specific job skills. But a bachelor's degree is a longer and more comprehensive educational path that covers a broader range of subjects.
This article explains the intricacies of a diploma and bachelor's degree in Malaysia. We'll look at each course, point out the main differences, and advise on choosing the best one. Here is what this article covers:
- What is a diploma?
- What is a bachelor's degree?
- Diploma vs. bachelor's degree
- Diploma vs. certificate
- International credentials equivalencies
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a diploma?
A diploma is a certificate awarded to students when they finish a specific programme of study. In Malaysia, you can get a diploma from community colleges, technical schools, or vocational schools that focus on specific fields. Mind you, this is different from the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) certificate (high school diploma) you received when you completed secondary school.
Usually, a diploma takes 2 to 3 years to complete in Malaysia. This makes a diploma certificate appealing to those seeking a more focused and efficient entry into their dream career fields. It may, however, take longer to get a diploma if you study part-time while working. Finishing a diploma is similar to completing the first year of a bachelor's degree, and it allows you to enter into the second year of a degree programme.
There are various diploma courses in Malaysia, from entry-level to graduate diplomas. Each diploma has a different focus that can help you pursue different job opportunities. Government and well-known institutions like universities provide formal diplomas. While non-governmental organisations, companies, or societies provide informal diplomas.
Jobs that often need a diploma include:
The cost of pursuing a diploma course can vary widely, depending on factors such as the type of diploma programme and the field of study. For example, a healthcare diploma may have different costs than one in business or technology.
It is essential to consider the institution, programme duration, specific subject, diploma, and career goals when estimating the expenses. For more accurate and current information, it is recommended to research specific institutions or programmes in your chosen field.
What is a bachelor's degree?
A bachelor's degree is a programme that includes coursework related to a specific area of study. It is often the first degree you complete in a university. After obtaining your bachelor's degree, you can move up to the postgraduate level and pursue a master's degree and then a doctorate degree. A bachelor's degree is often what people think of when they talk about a university degree.
Typically, a bachelor's degree in Malaysia takes a minimum of 3 years of full-time study to complete. However, some academic degree programmes can even take 4 or 5 years. Depending on the university and the course, an honours degree may require additional time.
There are also many types of bachelor's degrees based on your focus. Some common bachelor's degree programmes include education, business, architecture, engineering, and biology.
The cost of a bachelor's degree course depends on the university and the subject you choose to study. After you finish your bachelor's degree, you may go on to study further to improve your skills and boost your career. You may also start working right away.
Common career options requiring a bachelor's degree include:
Diploma vs bachelors degree
The key difference between a diploma programme and a bachelor's degree is the cost and time commitment. The learning outcomes, career prospects, and the overall nature of each programme also differ substantially.
Below is a list of the similarities and key differences between diploma and bachelor's degree programmes in Malaysia:
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degrees typically require the completion of a post-secondary STPM or GCE A-Level certificate. Most diploma programmes do not require this. Certain bachelor's degree courses, such as engineering, medicine, or law, also require the applicant to achieve high grades in various secondary school subjects.
Time commitment
Diploma programmes are completed in less time, often less than 3 years. You can sometimes complete a diploma alongside a full-time or part-time job, so it may take you longer. Bachelor's degrees typically require at least 3 to 5 years of full-time study.
Coursework
Bachelor's degrees often offer more practical knowledge and advanced skills than most diploma courses. They usually give you a wider understanding of the subject and focus on theory and practical skills relating to a future career path.
Both programmes allow you to focus on a subject you are interested in and can boost your career prospects. Both also typically require some level of education before you start, such as finishing post-secondary school for a bachelor's degree and secondary school for a diploma programme. Finally, you can often study both programmes part-time, allowing you to work while studying.
Diploma vs. certificate
A certificate confirms that a person has completed a series of classes or training in a specific skill. Earning a certificate may take a few weeks to a few months. Diplomas and certificates are both educational credentials, but they are not the same. Here is how they differ and what they have in common:
Differences between diplomas and certificates
There are several key differences between a diploma programme and a certificate. In Malaysia, the time it takes to earn a diploma or certificate differs greatly. Diploma programmes can take 2 to 3 years, while certificate programmes are shorter, often lasting only a few weeks to a few months. There are also formal certificates that typically range from 12 to 18 months long.
A diploma usually offers a broader level of education than a certificate programme. The institutions or organisations that give out diplomas and certificates also differ. Recognised educational institutions, such as universities, government institutions, or colleges, often provide diplomas. Educational and non-educational entities, like companies or non-profit organisations, can provide certificates.
There are 2 types of certificates. You receive an academic certificate after finishing a course of study, while a legal certificate allows you to legally work in a certain field. Jobs that require a legal certification include hotel managers, nurses, web developers, dental assistants, automotive mechanics, and machinists.
The cost of diplomas and certificates is another difference. It is usually cheaper to earn a certificate than it is to earn a diploma because of the shorter study duration.
Similarities between diplomas and certificates
Both diplomas and certificates usually have some entry requirements. For example, a diploma course may require you to finish secondary school before enrolling.
Certain certificate courses may also require some form of educational background, such as one or 2 credits in SPM. Checking what qualifications, you need for the course you are interested in can help you make your choice.
International credentials equivalencies
The international equivalent of a diploma
A diploma is a certificate or document that an educational institution, like a college or university, issues to show that a student has completed a course of study. The term “diploma” can refer to various levels of qualifications in different countries.
Each country has its educational system and may use the term differently. For example, in some countries, a diploma may be equivalent to a secondary school qualification. In others, a diploma may refer to a postgraduate degree.
In many countries, a diploma is like an associate degree programme in the U.S. or a Higher National Diploma in the UK. Both usually take 2 years of full-time study to complete.
The international equivalent of a bachelor's degree
Like diplomas, bachelor's degrees have different names across the world, but they refer to the same level of education.
You may be wondering, is a bachelor's degree an undergraduate degree? Yes, it is typically the degree you earn after completing undergraduate studies, which usually lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country and course of study.
For instance, in France, a bachelor's degree is known as a “license,” while in Germany, it's called a “Bakkalaureus” or simply “Bachelors.” In Australia, it is also referred to as a bachelor's degree programme.
Despite the name differences, these degrees are often equivalent in international contexts when considering job qualifications and continuing education pathways. Exact equivalencies can vary slightly based on factors such as the specific subject studied, the course duration, the university's reputation, and the educational policies of each country.
Conclusion
Diploma and degree programmes in Malaysia each have their unique characteristics. A diploma focuses on teaching specific skills and trades and is part of vocational or technical education. It also usually requires a lesser time commitment. This makes it ideal for those who want to develop employable skills fast.
A bachelor's degree is an extensive academic programme. It equips you with comprehensive knowledge of a specific subject. This in-depth education cultivates expertise and fosters critical thinking skills. It also prepares you for a dynamic and evolving professional landscape.
Certificates take even less time to earn. These are typically awarded when you complete a set of courses or receive practical training. These focused programmes offer a quicker way to gain specific skills, making them a practical choice for those seeking a swift entry into the workforce or a targeted enhancement of their professional capabilities.
Internationally, qualifications that are equivalent to diplomas and bachelor's degrees vary by name but often represent a similar level of education. Regardless of your preference, all these courses provide valuable learning to enhance your skills, open new professional career paths, and increase your employability in the job market.
FAQs
- Is a diploma higher than a bachelor's?
No, a diploma is not higher than a bachelor's degree. You usually get a diploma after 2 to 3 years of study, often in a specific vocational or technical field.
A bachelor's degree is a higher education qualification. You are given a degree after 3 to
5 years of full-time university study. It equips you with a broad knowledge base. You also develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a specific subject area. - Does a diploma count as a degree?
No, a diploma is not equivalent to a degree. It is a certificate given by an educational institution after completing a specific course of study. It takes less time to complete than a degree. Diplomas often focus on vocational training or technical skills.
A degree, such as a bachelor's degree or master's degree. It is a higher educational qualification awarded after completion of several years of study in a particular field. A degree often provides a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the subject area than a diploma. - What are some diplomas and certificates equivalent to Malaysia's bachelor's degree?
The bachelor's degrees earned in the U.S., UK, Australia and Canada are equivalent to Malaysia's bachelor's degree. In Malaysia, a bachelor's degree involves 3 to 5 years of full-time university study. A bachelor's degree in the UK, Australia, or Canada is also an undergraduate degree requiring 3 to 4 years of study. - Can I pursue further studies with a diploma?
Yes, diploma holders can pursue further study in related subjects. Earning a diploma can often be a stepping stone to further education. Diploma credits can transfer to higher education levels, like a bachelor's degree. This depends on the institution's policies, rules and requirements. Check with the specific community college or university you are interested in. - What jobs do not require a diploma?
Many jobs in Malaysia do not need a diploma. Some examples include home health aides, personal trainers, construction workers, and truck drivers.
While these jobs may not need a formal diploma, they often need other skills. These skills include interpersonal skills, physical endurance, or specific technical skills. Some of these jobs may also need on-the-job training or certain certifications. - What jobs do not require a bachelor's degree?
Many jobs do not require a bachelor's degree. Examples of these include:
- real estate agents
- executive assistants
- electricians
- dental hygienists
- web developers
- paralegals
- HVAC technicians
These jobs may need a secondary school qualification, on-the-job training, or apprenticeships. A bachelor's degree may not be necessary. But you still need specific skills or certifications to do the job well. The specific job requirements also vary according to the position and location.
