Find Diploma and Certificate Programs

While many people choose to pursue an associate or bachelor's degree after graduating high school, those options are far from the only choice available. Certification programs, typically offered at community colleges, technical colleges, online schools, and some public and private universities, are a great choice and oftentimes a requirement prior to entering a variety of industries.

Types of Degrees

For students looking to pursue a degree after graduating high school, an associate degree (2 years) or bachelor's degree (4 years) are the main options. But for those looking to enter an industry that is more about technical, hands-on experience than it is about academic study, entering a program that leads to an industry-specific certification may be a better choice. Industries as diverse as cosmetology, mechanics, and nursing all require the completion of a certification program or exam before one can begin to practice in their industry.

Admission Requirements

Some certification programs come after a student has completed an associate or bachelor's degree, like in nursing. But many other certification programs only require a high school diploma or equivalent before beginning the course. Each school and program has its own specific requirements, making it important to explore several options before settling on a specific school.

Career Opportunities After Earning A Certification

The range of career opportunities available to someone with a certification is extremely diverse and include:

• Mechanic
• Dental Assistant
• Beauty Specialist
• Firefighter
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.

Post Graduate Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a Diesel Service Technician and Mechanic was $48,690 in 2021 ¹ while Dental Assistants made a median salary of $38,660 in 2021. ²

Note that the average salary varies widely not only depending on career chosen, but on geographical location and employer. Conditions in your area may vary.

References

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Careers associated with these educational opportunities often require additional degrees and certifications not offered as part of the educational opportunities presented by this website.
• Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary.