Difference between a Graduate Certificate and Masters Degree

A master’s degree is generally a two-year, full-time program beyond a bachelor’s degree in a particular field of study. Most master’s degrees require the completion of 30 to 36 credits in their chosen area of specialization.


A graduate certificate is a short program of study in a particular subject. It consists of three to seven courses that can be completed in as little as a year or less. Graduate certifications allow students to pursue continuing education credit, enter a new field, or gain skills in a specific area. Graduate certificates do not lead to an academic degree.

So, if you are thinking of going for a postgraduate study, choose the one that you need for your career growth.