Difference Between Postbaccalaureate and a Graduate Certificate?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between a Postbaccalaureate degree and a Graduate Certificate. A Postbaccalaureate degree is typically considered an additional Bachelor's degree, while a Graduate Certificate signifies completion of a specific program without conferring a degree. The conversation highlights the availability of Graduate Certificates in engineering, contrasting with the limited options for Postbaccalaureate degrees in the same field. Participants emphasize the importance of researching individual institutions for specific program requirements and restrictions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of higher education degree classifications
  • Familiarity with Postbaccalaureate and Graduate Certificate definitions
  • Knowledge of program accreditation standards
  • Experience with academic program search tools
NEXT STEPS
  • Research accredited Postbaccalaureate programs in engineering using ABET's program search tool
  • Explore Graduate Certificate options in engineering at local universities
  • Investigate the specific requirements for obtaining a second Bachelor's degree
  • Compare the benefits of pursuing a Graduate Certificate versus a Master's degree in your field
USEFUL FOR

Individuals considering further education in engineering, academic advisors, and anyone seeking clarity on the differences between Postbaccalaureate degrees and Graduate Certificates.

YoshiMoshi
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What'd the difference between a Postbaccalaureate and a Graduate Certificate? Is it possible to get a Postbaccalaureate in engineering? I can't find a university that offer a Postbaccalaureate in engineering, but plenty of schools that offer a Graduate Certificate in engineering.
 
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YoshiMoshi said:
What'd the difference between a Postbaccalaureate and a Graduate Certificate? Is it possible to get a Postbaccalaureate in engineering? I can't find a university that offer a Postbaccalaureate in engineering, but plenty of schools that offer a Graduate Certificate in engineering.
Very likely, a postbaccalaureate degree is another Bachelor Degree, in addition to the Bachelor Degree you earned in something else at an earlier time.
 
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Can you recommend a search tool for postbaccalaureate degrees by major? I'd be interested in searching for schools in my state that have such a program in engineering.
 
I missed some of the meaning for the topic. Some certificates may require the person have at least undergraduate degree - specified in some subject or maybe not in specified subject. I am just guessing that such a certificate (which must go along with other requirements) might be a "postbaccalaureate certificate". The terminology is not something I have found in use but maybe in fact IS in use.
 
YoshiMoshi said:
Can you recommend a search tool for postbaccalaureate degrees by major? I'd be interested in searching for schools in my state that have such a program in engineering.
One should find the information from EACH institution. Some restrictions are enforced for people seeking second bachelors' degrees. Certificates, maybe not so much restrictions - just other requirements.
 
one place to start is to find the accredited programs in your state
https://amspub.abet.org/aps/category-search

Then google schools of interest to find which ones have post-bacc type programs, or at least admit students for second bachelors degrees.
Jason
 
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Whether it makes more sense to get a bachelors or a grad degree depends on your educational background and what field you want to go into. What is your situation?
 
I was just wondering really what the difference was. I think a postbac would be silly for me at this point because I already have a MEng. Thanks for the help.
 
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YoshiMoshi said:
What'd the difference between a Postbaccalaureate and a Graduate Certificate?
Again maybe we or just I misunderstand. "Certificate" and "Degree" are not the same thing. "Degree" means one graduated from a program of education, or of education and training. "Certificate" means person is permitted to do something specifiable, based on satisfying the qualifications for the certificate.
 

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