When you think about going to college, a degree is often the first thing that comes to mind. But if you’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree, going back for another degree isn’t the only option. Undergraduate certificate programs offer a faster, more focused way to gain in-demand skills. 

Whether you want to boost your resume, pivot your career, or specialize in a specific area, a certificate can help you get there faster and more affordably. In this article, we’ll break down what undergraduate certificates are, how they compare to degrees, and what options are available online at UT Permian Basin. 

Certificate vs. Degree: Key Differences Explained 

Certificate and degree programs share the same aim—to educate and provide valuable credentials. In terms of tuition, per-credit-hour rates for undergraduate certificate programs generally track with undergraduate degree tuition. Certificate courses are also frequently included as part of related degree programs and are often taught by the same renowned faculty. But a certificate program differs from a degree program in several key ways: 

Focus: Specialization vs. General Education 

A certificate program provides focused skills in a specific discipline, helping you improve your performance in a related job and add a valued credential to your resume. An undergraduate degree provides a broad, interdisciplinary education through a general education component.  

Time to Completion 

Certificate programs are usually far shorter than degree programs, requiring fewer credits and less time to complete. Some certificate programs take as little as one semester to complete, while bachelor’s degree programs generally take around four years. Certificate programs are designed to equip you with valuable professional skills and knowledge in a condensed timeframe.  

Cost Comparison 

Undergraduate certificate programs may cost as little as a few thousand dollars, while a bachelor’s degree may cost tens of thousands of dollars. 

Financial Aid Availability 

Only select certificate programs are eligible for federal financial aid, while most degree programs qualify. There are other types of financial aid available for either kind of program as well. For more information on financial aid options, contact our financial aid office. 

Undergraduate and Graduate Options 

Certificate programs are available at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Undergraduate certificates offer foundational skills, while graduate certificates provide more advanced, specialized knowledge. Admission requirements are often similar to degree programs, but some certificate options may allow you to enroll without pursuing a full degree.While certificate and degree programs can complement each other, they aren’t the same. Many careers still require at least a bachelor’s degree as a baseline qualification, and some employers only offer promotions or leadership roles to those with advanced degrees. 

While a certificate won’t replace a degree, it can improve the likelihood of advancing your career by: 

  • Enhancing your resume 
  • Building relevant skills 
  • Making you more competitive in your field 

You’ll get the most value from a certificate when you pursue it after, alongside, or in preparation for a degree program. 

Explore UT Permian Basin’s Undergraduate Certificates 

UT Permian Basin has introduced online undergraduate certificate programs in several in-demand fields, and we plan to continue adding more. As a university, we identify professional needs and skill gaps and develop new programs to address them. Our current programs include: 

Certificate in Spanish for First Responders  

Our 9-credit online program addresses the pressing need for Spanish-speaking first responders in the United States through an exploration of topics such as: 

  • Advanced Grammar and Syntax 
  • Hispanic Civilization 
  • Spanish for Health Professionals 

Undergraduate Certificate in Digital Marketing  

Our 12-to-18 credit online program can be added to any of our online BBA programs and helps students grasp the rising importance of the digital space in sales and marketing through an exploration of topics such as: 

  • Advertising 
  • Branding 
  • Analytics 
  • Social media 

Frequently Asked Questions About Undergraduate Certificates 

Curious whether an undergraduate certificate is right for you? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about certificate programs and how they compare to traditional degrees. 

  • What is an undergraduate certificate program? 
    An undergraduate certificate is a short, focused academic program designed to help you build specific skills in a particular subject area. It typically requires fewer credits than a degree and can often be completed in less than a year. Many certificates are offered online and can be stacked with a degree or pursued on their own. 
  • How does a certificate differ from a degree? 
    While both certificates and degrees offer valuable credentials, certificates are more specialized and take less time to complete. Degrees offer a broader, more comprehensive education and are often required for long-term career advancement. Certificates are ideal for skill-building, career shifts, or enhancing your current qualifications. 
  • Can I use a certificate to start or advance my career? 
    Yes! Certificate programs are designed to help you gain job-ready skills that can improve your resume and make you more competitive in the workforce. They’re especially useful if you’re looking to enter a new field, gain a promotion, or build additional expertise in your current career path. 

 
Enjoy The Unmatched Convenience of Online Learning at UTPB 

All of our undergraduate certificate programs are delivered in an online, asynchronous format that offers you unparalleled flexibility and convenience. These programs put you in charge of your own schedule, empowering you to complete your coursework at your own pace from practically any location on the planet. This is especially beneficial if you have ongoing professional and/or personal commitments.  

We don’t require campus visits for any of these programs. What’s more, you have access to an extensive network of online support services. We do everything we can to ensure your online certificate experience is as hassle-free as possible. 

Experience the many advantages of an online undergraduate certificate from UT Permian Basin!  

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