Length: A master's degree typically takes one to two years to complete, while a certificate can be completed in as little as a few weeks or months.
Level of study: A master's degree is a higher level of qualification than a certificate. Master's degrees are typically research-based, while certificates are more focused on practical skills.
Prerequisites: To be admitted to a master's program, you must have a bachelor's degree. Some master's programs also require applicants to have relevant work experience. To be admitted to a certificate program, you may only need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
Cost: Master's degrees are typically more expensive than certificates.
Career opportunities: A master's degree can lead to a wider range of career opportunities than a certificate. Master's degrees are often required for jobs in academia, research, and management. Certificates can be beneficial for people who want to gain new skills or advance in their current careers.
In summary, a master's degree is a higher level of qualification that typically takes longer to complete, requires a bachelor's degree for admission, is more expensive and leads to a wider range of career opportunities than a certificate.