Certifications and degrees both help you move forward professionally, but they serve different goals. The right choice depends on how quickly you want to work, how specialized your skills need to be, and how much flexibility you want in the future.

Certifications

Certifications focus on specific, job-ready skills and are common in fields like IT, healthcare support, business software, and skilled trades. They usually take weeks or months to complete and cost less than a degree.

They make sense if you want to enter a role quickly, upgrade your skills, or show proof of expertise in a particular area.

Degrees

Degrees provide a broader education and are often required for long-term advancement, leadership roles, or licensed professions. They take more time and commitment but offer greater career flexibility.

How employers see them

Employers often view certifications as proof of practical skills, while degrees signal broader knowledge and long-term potential. In many cases, the combination of a degree and relevant certifications is especially valuable.

Which one makes sense for you?

If speed and lower cost matter most, a certification may be the better fit. If you’re planning for long-term growth or want to keep more options open, a degree may be worth the investment. Many people use both at different stages of their careers.