University Lingo Explained

Certificate

A certificate program is typically 6 months - 1 year long and is a great option for entry-level employment, where you gain foundational skills/knowledge in your area of interest.

Diploma

Diploma programs typically take 2 - 3 years to complete, and offer students handson, technical training in their area of interest. You can use a college diploma to access many positions in your field, or as a pre-requisite for other College and University programs.

Undergraduate / Bachelors Degree

An Undergraduate or Bachelors Degree is the first level of university studies you can take after finishing high school. These programs are typically 3 - 5 years long.

Graduate / Masters

These programs allow you to further specialize in your field of study and can only be achieved if you have completed an undergraduate program. Most graduate programs have a pre-requisite and are typically 1 to 2 years long.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

This program is the next step to becoming a physician after completing your undergraduate program. These programs typically take 4 years to complete and are followed by a Residency Program (which range from 2 - 8 years depending on your area of specialty).

Practicums, Internships, Placements

Practicums, internships and placements all provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience before graduation, and to use the skills they’ve been learning in the classroom in a real setting with patients and clients. Each program is different, and not all schools require this to graduate.