The Benefits of Earning a Certificate vs. a Degree

While deciding the best option for advancing your career, weigh the cost, schedules and projected outlooks. 

Here is a preview of the resources available in certificate and degree programs: 

Fully Online Short-Term Certificate Programs

A certificate program is a continuing education offering the skills needed for career advancement or entering into a new field. Cal State Fullerton (CSUF) University Extension offers virtual certificate programs in various fields that provide in-demand skills.   

• Business - Human Resources Management 
• Crime - Crime and Intelligence Analysis
• Fiduciary Management - Professional Fiduciary Management for Trustees
• Technology & Engineering - Geographic Information Systems 

Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Programs

Online Bachelor’s Degree-Completion Programs allow you to finish your degree at your own pace, requiring only a computer and stable internet connection. This format is beneficial for transfer students, working professionals and military service members and their spouses. 

• Online B.A. in Business Administration (BABA)
• Online B.A. in Humanities & Social Sciences 
• Online B.A. in Sociology 

Master’s Programs are flexible and include classes scheduled in the evening or an accelerated schedule between 1 ½ years to 3 years. 

• Accelerated M.S. in Applied Computer Science (AMACS)
• Accelerated M.S in Software Engineering (AMSE) 
• Fully-Employed MBA (FEMBA)
• M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling & Marriage and Family Therapy 
• Master of Social Work Flex (MSW Flex)

Which path should you choose?

The differences between certificate and degree programs are the cost, duration, and most importantly, the subject. Choose the programs that best fits your needs and goals by requesting more information or contacting CSUF University Extension.