Higher certificates: are they the right study choice for you?

For many people, further study feels out of reach because of time or financial constraints. A higher certificate can change that. These short, practical programmes give you a recognised qualification while equipping you with job-ready skills in less time than a degree or diploma.

With employers increasingly looking for candidates who can add value from day one, higher certificates have become a smart stepping-stone for school leavers, career changers and professionals wanting to upskill. But are they worth it for your future? Let’s take a closer look.

What is a higher certificate?

A higher certificate is a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 qualification that focuses on industry-specific, hands-on learning. Unlike degrees, which often take three or more years to complete, a higher certificate usually takes 6-12 months of full-time study, with many institutions also offering part-time and online options providing more flexibility.

These programmes are designed to prepare you for the workplace quickly. Popular study areas include:

• Business administration
• Information technology
• Marketing and communication
• Hospitality management
• Healthcare support
• Law and legal studies

Instead of heavy theory, the emphasis is on practical skills you can apply immediately in your job. This makes them a good fit if you want to enter the workforce faster or sharpen your abilities in your current role.

Academic and career advantages

1. A recognised qualification

Graduating with a higher certificate means holding a formal, accredited qualification that employers recognise. It is not just a skills course, but a launching pad into further study or employment.

2. A pathway to further study

Many students use their higher certificate as a gateway to a diploma or degree. If you did not meet the entry requirements for a degree after school, completing a higher certificate can provide an alternative route to get there.

3. Career flexibility

Whether you are looking for an entry-level job, switching industries, or testing out a career field before committing to a longer qualification, a higher certificate offers flexibility without long-term pressure.

Cost-effective and accessible

For many students, affordability is a deciding factor. A higher certificate typically costs less than a diploma or degree, and the shorter study period means you also save on living and commuting expenses.

The accessibility of these programmes makes them attractive. Many institutions provide online or part-time options, making it possible to study while working. This means you can earn, gain work experience and upskill at the same time.

Employment prospects and industry recognition

Employers in sectors such as IT, business, hospitality and healthcare are increasingly valuing higher certificates. Why? Because these graduates often require less training and can start contributing immediately without much hand-holding.

Industry reports show that candidates with higher certificates are more likely to secure employment quickly, particularly in roles that require practical, technical or service-oriented skills. For example, someone with a Higher Certificate in IT Support can often move into entry-level tech support roles faster than someone with no formal qualification.

Higher certificate vs diploma vs degree

When choosing your study path, it helps to understand the differences:

• Higher Certificate: practical, entry-level, 6-12 months. Focused on specific skills for immediate employment.
• Diploma: more comprehensive than a certificate, blending theory and practice. Typically 2-3 years. Prepares you for mid-level roles.
• Degree: in-depth academic study, usually 3+ years. Best for professional and management roles with higher long-term earning potential.

If your goal is to enter the workforce quickly or upskill in a targeted area, a higher certificate may be your best option. If you want long-term growth in senior positions, a diploma or degree might be the better route.

Possible drawbacks

While higher certificates offer many benefits, they also have some limitations:

• They may not qualify you for management or specialised professional roles.
• Certain industries still place greater value on diplomas and degrees.
• You may need to continue your studies later if you want to advance into higher-level positions.

Understanding these trade-offs upfront can help you make an informed decision.

How to decide if a higher certificate is right for you

Before committing, consider:

• Your career goals: do you want to enter the workforce quickly, or are you aiming for a long academic journey?
• Your financial situation: would a shorter, more affordable qualification work better for you right now?
• Your learning style: do you prefer practical, hands-on learning over long theoretical study?

Speaking with a career advisor or admissions consultant can help match your personal goals to the right qualification.

The Emeris approach

At Emeris, the IIE programmes are designed with flexibility, relevance and support in mind. We offer flexible study options, personalised academic support and industry-aligned learning that prepares you for both immediate employment and long-term career growth. With Emeris, you gain more than a qualification – you gain confidence, connections and a clear direction for the future.

Our focus is on helping you thrive in your chosen path, with real-world skills and the confidence to apply them.

Final thoughts

A higher certificate can be an excellent option if you want to enter the workforce quickly, specialise in a focused area, or move on to further study. It is cost-effective, widely recognised by employers, and gives you an NQF-accredited qualification that carries weight in the job market.

But it's important to weigh the benefits against potential limitations and think carefully about your long-term career goals. With the right choice, a higher certificate can certainly open doors and provide a strong foundation for your future.