University certificates do not require as many courses as bachelor degree programs, so they typically take less time to earn. Courses are selected by the university to represent a focused study in a certain discipline and usually can be completed in one or two years.
Most university certificates require a student to complete credit courses that can be later applied to fulfill the requirements of a bachelor's degree if the student wishes to further his education. Some university certificates are not credit programs, but they are still recognized achievements.
Many universities are now offering certificates completely online through distance education and individualized study. This allows students to work in the comfort of their own homes and at their own pace to complete their certificates while still getting the support of a professor and classmates through online collaboration.