Certificate: A Guide for Malaysian Students

2023-08-28 | 2 MINS READ

What is Certificate?


A Certificate is an academic qualification that is lower than a Diploma. Certificate programmes are focused on equipping students with foundational knowledge and practical skills on specific subjects. With it, you can enter the workforce or progress to a Diploma.


Structure and Assessment of Certificate Programmes


The aim of a Certificate programme is to help you gain a basic understanding of specific subjects pertaining to your field of study. It is usually 1-1.5 years long and includes a combination of coursework and exams. Some programmes may require you to do your industrial placement/internship.


Your Pathway to Certificate Programmes


Take note of the following general entry requirements:

  • SPM/O-Levels: Min. 1 credit (1C) (SPM Holders must have a pass in Bahasa Melayu and Sejarah)
  • UEC: Min. 1 credit (1B)


Advantages of Certificate Programmes


  1. Low Entry Requirement
  2. If you have done poorly in SPM, you may consider choosing a Certificate programme as it only requires a minimum of 1-2 credits in SPM.

  3. Stepping Stone for Higher Education
  4. Want to do a Diploma but are barred from direct entry due to poor grades? Don’t worry. Although this is a longer route, you can progress to a Diploma after completing your Certificate programme.


Disadvantages of Certificate Programmes


  1. Limited Career Advancement
  2. Certificate programmes are generally geared towards providing you with the basic knowledge on specific subjects related to your field of interest. Because of that, your career opportunities may be limited compared to those who possess higher-level qualifications.

  3. Narrow Skill Set
  4. While joining a Certificate programme allows you to hone a particular set of skills related to a specific niche in the industry, it might also mean acquiring a narrower skill set compared to programmes with more comprehensive curricula such as Diploma and Degree courses.


So, What’s Next?


If you need more guidance on which programme/university you should choose, get in touch with us for your FREE education counselling!

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