The difference between a Higher Certificate in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Marketing Management
When considering further education possibilities, it is important to understand the differences between the options you are looking at like a Higher Certificate and Diploma for example. Both qualifications offer valuable knowledge and skills, but they have distinct characteristics that cater to different educational and career goals. Here we will explore the features of a Higher Certificate and a Diploma, specifically focusing on the Higher Certificate in Marketing and the Diploma in Marketing Management offered by IMM Graduate School.
Let’s look at a Higher Certificate versus a Diploma
A Higher Certificate is a skills-focussed qualification that provides a basic understanding of a chosen field. Its focus is theoretical and has an element of practical knowledge application. Higher Certificates, like the Higher Certificate in Marketing Management, take an average of one year to complete full-time with entry requirements being a Matric pass or equivalent. With the IMM Graduate School, we afford our students the opportunity to complete their Higher Certificate within a maximum of four years. After completion of your Higher Certificate, you can continue your learning with IMM Graduate School and apply to do any one of our diploma or undergraduate degree programmes.
A Diploma on the other hand is similar to a degree in the sense of theoretical knowledge but also offers the opportunity for practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. A Diploma, like the Diploma in Marketing Management, takes a minimum of three years to complete and requires a Matric exemption or equivalent. The diploma should be completed in three years but we allow our students up to eight years to complete theirs. After completing this qualification, you can continue your learning with IMM Graduate School and apply to do any one of our undergraduate degree programmes. Our BBA in Marketing Management for example, is a highly sought-after qualification. Employers in the marketing industry ask for it by name.
The IMM Graduate School’s Higher Certificate in Marketing
At level NQF 5 and offering 135 credits, IMM Graduate School Higher Certificate in Marketing is a foundational programme that offers students a framework for understanding and working in the enterprising and essential field of marketing. Students will be able to link organisational objectives with marketing opportunities and demonstrate the ability to solve basic marketing challenges that arise within the workplace.
The IMM Graduate School’s Diploma in Marketing Management
The Diploma in Marketing Management offered by IMM Graduate School is an intermediate programme that provides students with extensive knowledge of the principles, theories, methods, and application processes involved in the core marketing management function. Graduates are equipped to coordinate and contribute to the success of an organisation’s marketing function, in line with best practice.
Steps to choose the right qualification
Firstly, you want to contextualise what your career goals are. Do you want to work with people? Do you want to be recognised, relevant, and real? Secondly, what is the best qualification you can get to help you to achieve those goals? Do you want quick, practical knowledge or have a more theoretical-based qualification? Lastly, get in touch and ask questions! To get in touch with us at IMM Graduate School you can click here.
Conclusion
Choosing the right qualification is a critical step toward achieving your educational and career objectives. The Higher Certificate in Marketing from the IMM Graduate School provides a foundational understanding of marketing principles and their practical applications, while the Diploma in Marketing Management offers comprehensive knowledge and the opportunity for practical experience in the field. By evaluating your specific goals and considering the duration, entry requirements, and scope of each qualification, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations. Remember, both the higher certificate and the diploma pave the way for success, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic field of marketing.