Credential levels: what it means for students
What it means, who decides it and where to check the official source.
Certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, degree and post-graduate certificate describe different kinds of credentials, and each school defines its own.
In more detail
Canadian schools award several kinds of credentials. Colleges commonly offer certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas and post-graduate certificates; universities award degrees such as bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. Some colleges also offer applied degrees.
A post-graduate certificate generally builds on an earlier credential. The names are similar across schools, but entry requirements and what a credential leads to are not the same everywhere.
Comparing programs is easier when you look at the credential type first, then at the school's own description of what it covers and what it connects to.
Who decides
Provinces regulate credential standards; each school decides its programs and entry requirements.
Where to check
- Government of Ontario
Provincial education pages explain credential types.
- Government of Canada
What to ask a counsellor
- Which credential type best matches my goals, and how do I compare the same type across schools?
Questions about a term?
Bring it to a free counselling session. We explain how schools and programs work and help you prepare questions. We do not give immigration advice.
Independent advice
- Study Master Canada is an independent education counselling firm. We are an authorized agent of certain colleges and universities, directly and through recruitment partners, and the institutions compensate us. Our counselling is free to you.
- We help you choose a program and connect you with the college.
- We do not determine eligibility or funding, and we are not affiliated with any government.
- Regulated immigration work is done only by Visa Master Canada, a licensed RCIC partner, and only when you retain them directly.