Difference Between Diploma And Degree In Engineering – CollegeLearners.com (2023)

The Difference Between Diploma and Degree In Engineering is a real eye opener for those who are about to graduate or are about to take admission in a University for engineering. The article is meant for all those who want to know the difference between a diploma course and degree program in engineering.

Degree courses ask you to dedicate your long time, efforts, and finance in order to get a certified degree. Diploma and Degree variate in terms of the difficulty level as well. It’s also a psychological fact that degrees are considered a better option than diploma courses. The degree is a four-year course, while the diploma is a two-year course. Degree courses are more expensive than diploma ones. Degree holders have higher job potentials and salary packages than diploma holders. The best & latest information on difference between diploma and degree in mechanical engineering, diploma vs degree salary can be found in the article below.

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what is diploma course?

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Adiplomais a certificate or deed issued by an educational institution, such as college or university, that testifies that the recipient has successfully completed a particular course of study. The word diploma also refers to an academic award which is given after the completion of study in different courses such as diploma in higher education, diploma in graduation or diploma in post-graduation. Historically, it can also refer to a charter or official document,thusdiplomatic,diplomatanddiplomacyvia theCodex Juris Gentium Diplomaticus.

The diploma (as a document certifying a qualification) may also be called atestamur,Latinfor “we testify” or “certify” (testari), so called from the word with which the certificate begins;this is commonly used in Australia to refer to the document certifying the award of a degree.Alternatively, this document can simply be referred to as a degree certificate or graduation certificate, or as aparchment.The certificate that aNobellaureate receives is also called a diploma.

The term diploma is also used in some historical contexts, to refer to documents signed by a King affirming a grant or tenure of specified land and its conditions (seeAnglo-Saxon ChartersandDiplomatics).

diploma in engineering

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TheDiploma in EngineeringorDiploma in Technical Educationis a program focused on practical and skills-oriented training. It is a technical course that only covers the essentials when ranked with an undergraduate engineering degree. It aims to provide students with industry or job related engineering knowledge, scientific skills, computing and analysis, mathematical techniques, a sound knowledge of English to communicate in the field and ability to apply problem-solving techniques.

Its duration is minimum 3 years. Many countries in the world recognize it as equivalent to pre-engineering or bridging course when considered for continuing studies in engineering related bachelors or associate degree programs. After successful completion of diploma in engineering course, students can either continue further engineering studies in undergraduate level or get employment as junior engineers, sub engineers, associate engineers, technicians, technologists, supervisors, superintendents, foremen, machinist, workshop technicians, draftsman, station technicians (energy, thermal, aeronautical), automobile technicians, maintenance and service technicians, equipment mechanics and technicians,CAD/CAMprogrammer, agricultural overseers, instrument technicians, junior instructors, manufacturing, tool and die designers, electricians…etc.

In some countries, one can apply for this diploma after completion of10th grade(Secondary School Certificate).

Disciplines

Diploma in engineering can be obtained in many disciplines such as:

  • Aeronautical engineering
  • Architecture/Architectural engineering
  • Automobile/Automotive engineering
  • Ceramic Engineering
  • Civil engineering
  • Chemical engineering
  • Computer engineering/Computer Science and engineering
  • Environmental engineering
  • Electrical engineering
  • Electronics engineering
  • Telecommunication/Communication engineering
  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Electronics and Telecommunication/Communication engineering
  • Food technology/engineering
  • Glass Engineering
  • Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning engineering
  • Information technology/engineering
  • Instrumentation and Control engineering
  • Mechanical engineering
  • Mining/Mining and Mine Survey Engineering
  • Industrial and Production engineering
  • Marine engineering
  • Materials engineering
  • Mechatronics engineering
  • Manufacturing engineering
  • Petroleum engineering
  • Polymer engineering
  • Plastic technology/engineering
  • Printing technology/engineering
  • Software engineering
  • Rubber technology/engineering
  • Textile engineering
  • Tool and Die engineering

Difference Between Diploma And Degree In Engineering

Difference Between Diploma And Degree In Engineering – CollegeLearners.com (3)

Engineering Qualification: Entrance Requirements

To pursue any kind of qualification in engineering, you will need to have a relatively strong background in maths and science. The advantage of applying to study an engineering diploma is that you don’t need a traditional matric certificate to apply. You are just as qualified to apply with a technical certificate (or N3 certificate). If you have no matric at all, you are also not out of options. Many tertiary institutions offer bridging certificates for students with a Grade 9 qualification or higher.

The entrance requirements for each of these qualifications are as follows:

  • Bridging Certificates

There are three engineering certificates that you can get before applying to study engineering, the N1 certificate, for which you will require grade 9 with maths and science, the N2 certificate, for which you will have to have completed the N1 certificate. In order to study towards the N3 certificate, you will have to have successfully completed the N1 and N2 certificates.

  • Engineering Diploma
    • N3 Certificate in Engineering Studies OR
    • National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) with Pure Mathematics
  • Engineering Degree
    • National Senior Certificate (Grade 12)
    • English or Afrikaans (60-70%)
    • Pure Mathematics (70-80%)
    • Physical Sciences (70-80%)

Level of Engineering Qualification:

As you can see, an engineering diploma is only an NQF level 6, where a degree is an NQF level 7. This is perhaps the biggest difference between the two qualifications. However, it doesn’t mean that the diploma is the worst option. You should take all of the factors into account when trying to decide which qualification is best for you.

Cost

Because of this and the fact that an engineering degree takes longer to achieve than an engineering diploma, a degree in engineering is considerably more expensive than a diploma. You are also often able to study a diploma part-time, especially at private institutions and technical colleges. This means that if you are doing a diploma you might be able to get a part-time job that will help you contribute towards your tuition.

Employment Opportunities

Typically, higher level engineering positions require you to have a degree, so you will be able to work as a professional engineer in your chosen field.However, a diploma allows you to work in a number of specialised positions and you will already have a lot of practical experience that you can apply in your work. If you have an engineering diploma, you are able to do a wide variety of jobs, such as electrical work or working as a diesel mechanic.

Duration

Adegree in engineeringwill take youfour to five years to complete, depending on the intensity of the course. Adiploma in engineeringwill take youtwo years to complete full-time, and three years part-time. After you achieve your diploma in engineering, you are required to completetwo years of in-service trainingbefore you are fully qualified in your field.

Nature of Course

Engineering degrees, while including a huge practical component, that you will have to pass to get your degree, are typically more theoretical in nature. Engineering diplomas often have a lot more focus on the practical components of the engineering industry. If you are studying towards a diploma, your course work will be a lot more “hands-on.

Because of the highly practical nature of engineering diplomas, you are able to qualify in much more specialized fields. This means that you are qualified to do a specific job and so makes you very competitive in that field.

Place of Study

Engineering degrees are only offered by universities. A diploma in engineering, however, can be attained at several different types of institutions, including:

  • TVET Colleges
  • Universities of technology
  • Private tertiary institutions

What’s the difference between a diploma and a degree

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The following article explains one of the fundamental questions many students have asked before enrolling at Techtorium NZIIT (or many other institutes):What’s the difference between a Diploma and a Degree?

Since 2004 the philosophy behind starting Techtorium has remained the same – The IT industry needs graduates that have practical, hands-on knowledge. The core skills have not changed, and graduates still need an understanding of networks, servers, and customers. Techtorium has been the leading IT institute in New Zealand for many years. Not necessarily because of their reputation as an NZQA Category 1 provider, but because of their strong links to industry partners such as Datacom, New Era IT and Fujitsu. When compared to most other tertiary institutions, Techtorium NZIIT has relatively a high number of graduates gaining employment after completing their diploma courses. With a focus on providing vocational training, the diploma courses provided focus on ‘doing the task’. So, if ‘doing the task’ (rather than ‘writing about it’) can directly lead a student from studying at tertiary level, right through to gaining their first job as an IT technician, why do we study for bachelors degrees? Is it necessary to dedicate 3 years to study? and are the skills gained different in any way?What’s the difference between a Diploma and a Degree?

Here, we hope to un-jumble the jargon and explain some of the key differences. We’ll also discuss what makes aTechtorium Diplomadifferent (or in some ways, similar) to a University / Bachelors Degree in Computer Science. Here are some keynotes:

  • Diplomas:For people who like ‘doing’ (Vocational) |Degrees:For people who like writing & are good in exam situations (more academic)
  • Diplomas:Usually take about 1 – 2 years |Degrees:Usually take 3 – 4 years
  • Diplomas:Start at Level 5 |Degrees: Also start at Level 5
  • Diplomas:Have an exit point, so you can graduate with a qualification sooner |Degrees:You’ll dedicate to 3 years to become qualified with a bachelors degree
  • Diplomas:More practical, hands-on, experience-based learning |Degrees:More academic.

Below is an example of a what’s the difference between a diploma and a degree at Techtorium. Here you can see that diplomas are NZQA accredited and lead directly into thew appropriate career path.

Level 5 Computer Engineering Diploma:New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Support – 1 Year, 120 Credits

***To become a SERVICE DESK TEAM LEADER***

Level 6 Computer EngineeringDiploma:New Zealand Diploma in Systems Administration – 1 Year, 120 Credits

***To become a NETWORK ARCHITECT****

Level 7 Computer EngineeringDiploma:Diploma in Cloud Management– 1 Year, 120 Credits

***To become a CLOUD ENGINEER***

“We know that not every student is interested in IT; but if they are, we’re able to recognise this talent early, and nurture their career”

Now, when we look a Diplomas vs Degrees, there are also different entry criteria. According to the NZQA, the purpose of these qualifications are to provide Aotearoa New Zealand with graduates who have attained a broad understanding of the core concepts and practical skills in Information Technology (IT), with a technical support focus. Itwill equip people for employment in roles such as computer technician, service desk or technical support, or prepare them for further study.”According towww.futureintech.org.nzthey indicate the following:

“NZQA Level 4-5: Certificate

Certificates generally take between six months to a year to complete if studying full-time. At present, Techtorium does not offer any Certificates in computing; however, we do offer courses at Level 4. Certificates can provide a broad introduction to a particular subject area, for example in IT, Horticulture or Agriculture.
Specific certificates may be required for entry into an occupation, for example: a Certificate in Electrical Trades for work as an electrician or a Certificate in Surveying for work as a surveying assistant.
Some certificates are designed as preparation for diploma- or degree-level study.

NZQA Level 5-6: Diploma

Diplomas are more advanced than certificates. They are a great way to get quickly into a job in technology and engineering as they generally take two years of full-time study. Diploma graduates are in demand in industry, especially in engineering, as they have the strong technical expertise and hands-on skills. According to the NZ Tech Industry Association, “there are more than 28,000 companies employing more than 100,000 people in IT. That’s over 5% of New Zealand’s workforce. Further to this, the job market has increased by an average of 5,300 jobs a year since that time. For a full list of all the Diploma courses available at Techtorium, please go to theNZQA website. A diploma in Science or Technology can be a flexible way to study at tertiary level. After completing a diploma, you can generally convert it into a degree by completing an extra year of study. Diplomas are often the required qualification for advanced trade and technical occupations such as information technology, for example,The New Zealand Diploma in Information Technology Technical Supportor theNew Zealand Diploma in Systems Administrationor theDiploma in Cloud Management

diploma vs degree salary

On average, people with a Certificate III or IV qualification in Australia are earning $3,200 more than Bachelor degrees graduate in their first year out of study.
A 2017 report cites that the median full-time income for a VET graduate is $56,000. Whereas, the median graduate salary for students completing a bachelor’s degree is $54,000.1Often VET graduates can earn higher salaries than many bachelor’s degree graduates.

FAQs

What is the difference between a diploma and a bachelor's degree in engineering? ›

First and foremost, a Bachelor's Degree provides a more comprehensive education in the field of engineering. While an Advanced Diploma can provide a solid introduction to the field, it may not be enough to fully prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the profession.

What is the difference between a college diploma and a degree? ›

You earn a degree through a college or university for the completion of several courses in a major of study. You earn a diploma through specific—usually hands-on—coursework in a specific field through a college, online program, or technical school.

Are you an engineer with a diploma? ›

Answer- Diploma holders cannot be called engineers because the students have only learned the basics of engineering and still require in-depth knowledge about the field.

Is a professional diploma equivalent to a degree? ›

UCD Professional Academy diplomas tend to be short, averaging 36 hours in length; designed and delivered by industry practitioners to impart directly applicable knowledge to professionals, they are not part of nor do they lead to a traditional university award such as a degree or a masters or any other award on the NFQ ...

What are 2 differences between a diploma and a degree? ›

The degree program typically includes a mix of core and degree-specific classes. A diploma primarily comprises hands-on training with few classes and is common in specific industries, like HVAC or cosmetology. Some certificate programs may also include training in the form of an apprenticeship.

What is a diploma equivalent to? ›

Diploma of Higher Education

It's the academic equivalent to an HND, meaning that receiving a DipHE is also equal to two years of full-time study at a university. A DipHE is an excellent option for students who cannot commit to a three or four-year degree.

How many years is a diploma degree? ›

Diploma programs typically take 1-2 years to complete, and you earn a certificate after completing one particular course of study and upon passing the course's final exam. Diploma programs usually take less time and money than earning a degree.

Can I call myself an engineer without a degree? ›

In the computer industry in the US, software developers don't require formal degrees or certifications to call themselves “engineers”, or have “engineer” in their title. It's always been common for developers to have degrees outside computer science and even outside the “STEM fields”.

How many points is a diploma? ›

The minimum requirements for the undergraduate qualifications are: Higher Certificate: 15 points. Diploma: 18 points. Bachelor Degree: 21 points (some exceptions may apply)

What is the highest college diploma? ›

A doctorate is the highest education level, but there are still several types of doctoral degrees. Here are some of the most common you can get: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

What level is a degree? ›

What are qualification levels?
LevelKey qualifications
6Degree apprenticeship Degree with honours (eg BSc) Ordinary degree without honours Graduate certificate Graduate diploma Level 6 NVQ
7Master's degree (eg MA, MSci, MEng, MPhil) Level 7 award Level 7 certificate Level 7 diploma Level 7 NVQ PGCE (teaching certificate)
7 more rows

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