By definition, a Diploma is ‘a document issued by an educational institution, such as a university, testifying that the recipient has earned a degree or has successfully completed a particular course of study.’ Whereas, a Certificate is ‘a document issued to a person completing a course of study not leading to a diploma.’

However, these definitions do not completely explain the difference between a Diploma and a Certificate. Usually, the Diploma courses cover subjects in greater depth and in a broader way, while the Certificate courses are likely to be more specialized with a tighter syllabus. Certificate programs are usually completed faster than the diploma, and may or may not have any requirements at all.

By tradition, diplomas were given to high school students after they have completed their high school studies. Though, there are some adults who decide to get their high school diploma later in their lives. For them, a General Education Development Test (GED) was introduced. A number of colleges are offering adult education classes to help adult students pass the GED. These schools often offer diplomas to students who pass certain courses.

On the other hand, Certificates are different than diplomas because they are given out to students who have passed a particular course of study. This may or may not be related to high school graduation requirements. Certificates prove that students have completed and mastered a particular skill. This skill is usually associated with a job requirement.

Unfortunately, at some institutions, the difference between diplomas and certificates can become a little confusing. Some colleges simply call their certificate programs "diploma" programs. The only difference is in the name. It’s useful to contact a potential employer and ask them if a certain college course fulfills their job requirements.