Five Benefits of Studying a Diploma Course
1. Employers value skills more than Degrees.
2. Diplomas let you enter the job market quicker.
3. You could potentially earn a higher salary.
4. Diplomas are more affordable.
5. Flexible learning.
Employers Value Skills More than Degrees
A recent study by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation demonstrates that employers are gearing up for a world of work where workplace skills are more valued than a Degree from a traditional Higher Education Institution (HEI). Diplomas provide you with career-orientated skills that increase your chances of securing a job. Employers value people who can walk into a new job, ready to go.
Diplomas let You Enter the Job Market Quicker
There are two reasons why you will be able to start working and earning a salary sooner with a Diploma. The first is study duration. Diploma courses, on average, require 12 months of study time to complete. Like Alison, some online learning platforms offer Diploma courses that will take eight to ten hours to complete. A Degree is a three-year commitment (at least).
The second reason is that Diplomas provide you with practical, usable and most importantly, employable skills. This means that you are more job-ready than a degree-holder after you’ve gained your qualification, and a company won’t need to invest as many resources in upskilling you. According to Gartner, a global research and advisory company, 70% of employees feel that they haven’t mastered the skills needed to do their jobs. Companies invest $350 billion globally in training. Hiring new starters with employable skills save employers time and money.
You Could Potentially Earn a Higher Salary
In some countries and professions, people with Diplomas and Certificates earn more than those with a bachelor’s degree. According to data from Georgetown University’s Center on Education, workers holding Diplomas in computer and information services, electronics, and business or office administration earn more than employees with Bachelors Degrees.
Diplomas are More Affordable
Degrees are expensive. In the UK alone, a University Degree costs approximately £9250 per year. Diplomas are more affordable, and like Alison, some online learning platforms offer free Diploma courses. Alison has over 3000 free courses with optional paid certifications.
Affordability also means job flexibility. The lower cost of Diplomas allows you to master more than one set of skills which improves your chances of finding a job or making a career change.
Diplomas Allow for Flexible Learning
Diplomas are lower maintenance and often have less contact teaching hours and more practical application. They are generally less time consuming and more flexible. This makes it easier to juggle studying for a Diploma with practical work experience, which is more valuable than any certification.
A diploma course can be started at any time of the year, so you don't need to worry about being on anyone else's clock. If you need to gain a qualification by a specific date, then diplomas are the best route for you.