Are you considering higher education but unsure which option best suits your goals? From certificates to master's degrees, each level of education offers unique benefits and opportunities. This guide will help you understand the different degree levels and certifications available in Canada, so you can choose the path that aligns with your career aspirations.
Certificates
Certificates in Canada are ideal for individuals seeking specialized training and practical skills for immediate career application. UFred offers focused Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) certificates that emphasize real-world applicability, designed to meet industry demands and prepare graduates for professional advancement. UFred also offers Master's certificates that will allow those with an existing Master's degree to focus on an area of business that is closely aligned with their goals.
OHS certificates
1. What they are: Short-term programs offering foundational knowledge in specific occupational health and safety fields, from certificates in Integrated Disability Management to Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Systems.
2. Duration: Dependent on the program, but typically completed in 6 to 12 months, earned through UFred's flexible, online model.
3. Career outcomes: Equip graduates for roles such as health and safety coordinators, compliance officers, and more. Many certificate holders also use these programs as a stepping stone for further education.
Master's certificates
1. What they are: Programs for those with an MBA who would like to specialize in a leadership stream and gain relevant skills for their specific role/career ambitions.
2. Duration: Typically completed in 7 months, through UFred's flexible online model.
3. Career outcomes: Equip graduates for business leadership roles in their field, providing in-depth knowledge on the areas of business most relevant for their goals.
Learn more about certificates, diplomas, and degrees offered through the School of Occupational Health & Safety.
Diplomas
Diploma programs go beyond certificates, offering a deeper dive into specific subjects. They’re ideal for those seeking a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Diploma programs are designed to equip students with industry-relevant skills and prepare them for entry-level positions or further academic pursuits. UFred’s Safety, Health, and Environmental Management (SHEM) diploma program is designed to meet the demand for skilled professionals in workplace safety.
1. What they are: Intermediate programs that balance academic and applied learning.
2. Duration: Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on the field of study.
3.Career outcomes: Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in various industries such as safety management, compliance, and environmental health, if they choose to pursue UFred's SHEM program. A diploma can also be used as a stepping stone for further academic achievements.
Associate degrees
Associate degrees represent a significant milestone in post secondary education, offering a two-year undergraduate-level program that combines general education courses with specialized coursework. Associate degree programs are available at community colleges and some universities, including UFred, providing students with a solid academic foundation and the option to transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree program later. These programs are popular among individuals seeking to explore different academic disciplines or pursue career advancement opportunities. UFred’s Associate of Occupational Health and Safety (AOHS) and Associate of Business Administration (ADBA) programs are designed to provide foundational knowledge and practical skills for career growth or further education.
1. What They Are: Programs combining general education courses and specialized coursework.
2. Duration: Typically completed in 2 years.
3. Career Outcomes: Popular among those exploring academic disciplines or seeking roles in business administration. It can be used as a stepping stone towards a bachelor degree.
Bachelor degrees
Bachelor's degrees are the cornerstone of undergraduate education in Canada, typically requiring three to four years of full-time study to complete, more if you're pursuing your studies part-time. Universities and colleges nationwide offer bachelor's degree programs that cover a broad spectrum of disciplines. Students can choose majors, minors, specialties, and elective courses based on their academic interests and career aspirations. A bachelor's degree enhances job prospects and lays the groundwork for advanced studies at the graduate level.
1. What they are: Undergraduate programs covering broad disciplines, with options for majors, minors, and electives.
2. Duration: Typically 4 years full-time, with part-time options available.
3. Career outcomes: Prepare graduates for diverse fields such as business or for pursuing advanced degrees like a master’s.
Learn more about master's certificates and degrees offered through the UFred School of Business.
Master’s degrees
A master’s degree allows students to specialize at the graduate level, enhancing skills and opening doors to leadership roles. UFred’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Executive MBA programs are tailored for professionals seeking career advancement through practical and relevant coursework.
1. What they are: Graduate programs focusing on advanced knowledge and specialized expertise in various disciplines.
2. Duration: Anywhere from 2 - 4 years. UFred’s master’s programs are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible online study options to fit busy schedules.
3. Career outcomes: Graduates often pursue senior leadership roles or specialized positions in industries such as business administration, healthcare management, and more.
The UFred advantage
Whether you’re pursuing a certificate, diploma or degree, you can count on UFred for quality programs taught by highly experienced professors who care about your success. Our programs are designed with flexibility in mind, offering convenient payment options, a 100% online model and the ability to structure your studies around work and personal commitments. Join thousands of students who have taken the next step towards a brighter future.