Degrees vs. Certifications in Tech: Which is Better?

This one is always a hot conversation wherever you find aspiring or seasoned techies and I am so excited to give own take on this topic having pursued both and also having worked with professionals who explored these paths exclusively and also combined. Anyone who has wanted to work in tech or in IT has at one point or another found themselves having to choose whether they were going to pursue a certification or a degree.

A Little Background

I studied Computing in High School at A level so I knew that I wanted to pursue something IT-related in University. So whilst I was waiting for my A Level results, my dad came home one day and told me that he had found a college in town that offered specialised IT programmes and he wanted me to choose a diploma I would be able to complete by the time university opened. That was going to be about 6 months.

So I looked at the flyer and there were programmes like Web Design, Programming, Databases, Networking just to name a few. I went on and picked out Networking. I wish I could have given a very convincing reason why I picked this track but looking back, I suspect it was possibly the thrill of getting to learn how computers can communicate with each other – something I hardly ever got the opportunity to do practically whilst in high school. My dad didn’t really care what I picked. He just needed me occupied and “doing something meaningful” with my time. I was also working for him during this time, by the way, so my days were very full and that’s an experience also loaded with stories (for another day, of course) having worked for my dad since I was about 12.

Anyway, so for six months before I started college, I studied for this Networking diploma. I wrote exams but unfortunately failed one of the modules and never got around retaking it. So I never got the Diploma. I had since started university, was now busy with pursuing that and just moved on from that program. Fast forward to my internship year, I found myself working for an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and had to revisit the ghosts of my past – my incomplete Networking diploma. Of course it wasn’t an issue but I remember wishing I had just completed the program and earned my certificate to, you know, strengthen my CV.

Whilst working at this ISP, I got interested in the work we were doing because internet usage was on the rise. The learning possibilities and opportunities were plenty! I was encouraged by my supervisor to take up a Certification program in Networking. It made sense to me so I signed up for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification. I really enjoyed those classes but, again, I did not end up taking my Certification exam. Sigh! By the time I was due to take the exam, it was time to go back to Uni and start my final year and I just didn’t manage to allow myself to work around scheduling to take the exam since I learnt in another town 4 hours away. I wouldn’t say they were complex logistics. To be honest, if I wanted to, I would have. That’s the bottom line.

After University I got a Graduate Trainee position at a bank and one of the things that actually stood out for one of the interviewers who was going to be my future boss was that I had CCNA training and was looking to be certified. However, once work began, I was initially placed with the team that was supporting the banking applications. I did serve my time doing networking and infrastructure support but my interest was now in the banking applications so I ended up doing that.

Now, by this point in my career, I had met many people who were working in or studying in tech. When I was at that college in town studying for the Networking diploma, I had classmates who were working full time jobs and did not have degrees. They were upskilling through this program at this college and had other similar qualifications or short courses gained by this point. When I was going through my internship at the ISP, a number of my colleagues were in full time permanent roles and did not have degrees. Some of them were studying towards degree programmes whilst working and others were studying for some certifications or short courses. They were amazing at their work, trained me even and the fact that they did not have degrees was hardly ever an issue because, they got the job done.

When I joined the bank, I had colleagues in our IT office who did not have degrees but, they not only trained me, they were also getting the job done. Again, a number of them were also studying towards a degree or some certification or short course. I also had to work with external consultants who were vendors of the applications we used in the bank and from speaking to some of them, they did not have degrees. Some had taken the paths of certifications whilst working and learning on the job.

Now, back to the question: Which is better – a degree or a certification? I had to give you my own back story and experience so that you understood my take on this.

First of all, for the benefit of those reading this and they don’t have a background in the terminology. Let’s get that out of the way.

According to Oracle, IT certifications are credentials that IT professionals earn to verify that they have the skills and knowledge to perform a specific role within information technology. Certifications give professionals at all levels of experience the opportunity to develop deep knowledge of a particular area of IT and demonstrate their skills and expertise. Most software and hardware technology manufacturers and vendors have developed different kinds of certification programs to be able to develop the skills and knowledge of professionals who use their products and services.

Amazon, Oracle, Microsoft, Linux, Cisco, Google, IBM are just some of the vendors who have certifications sort after by a lot of tech professionals across the globe. Certifications, for the most part, verify that you are competent in a particular knowledge area, that you went through relevant training and passed some level of testing of the necessary skills. Completing and attaining a certification can taking anything from a few days to usually 6 months.

A technology degree, on the other hand, is a program of study that spans between 2 to 4 years focusing on principles, processes and technologies used to drive past, present and future innovations and discoveries in different areas of technology. Unlike certifications, technology degrees typically have a minimum standard of requirements for entry to study which may be particular subjects of study at high school level like Mathematics, Computing, Physics, Accounting, Business Studies, work experience or a combination of both. I know that in some countries, subjects of study at university level are irrelevant but, in others, including Zimbabwe, these would definitely affect whether or not you qualify.

I believe both certifications and degrees have their place and, because I have seen people thrive having chosen either of these tracks or both, I don’t place one above the other. However, I believe that there are some pros and cons to consider when you find yourself at a crossroads of having to choose what path to take. Mainly because, this is an investment in time, money and other resources.

Pros and Cons of Degrees

Let’s start with degrees. Because a degree program offers a comprehensive education, covering a broad range of topics within a field, it provides a strong foundation and a holistic understanding of a particular discipline. For example, a degree in Computer Science (which I studied, by the way) doesn’t just teach you how to code – it also includes core modules of study in algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and often elective modules in areas like artificial intelligence or cybersecurity.

This broad exposure can be beneficial for someone looking to explore different areas of tech before settling on a specific niche. Remember my experience as a Graduate Trainee at the bank? I had the opportunity to explore working in different fields encompassing hardware and software but even though I had pursued Networking certifications in the past, I had the understanding of other areas like databases and programming from University to allow me to settle comfortably working in Applications Development and Support.

Moreover, degrees often come with opportunities for professional networking. Universities host career fairs, have alumni networks, and provide other resources that can help students connect with potential employers. These connections can be invaluable when starting your career. I can tell you from personal experience that the relationships I established in university, far outlasted those I formed at that college in town where I was taking the Networking Diploma and also where I took my CCNA training during my internship year. In fact, my first job at the bank after university was a result of me getting an interview because a former classmate had a relationship with the hiring manager and passed on my CV for consideration and I ended up being invited to an interview.

However, degrees are not without their downsides. They require a significant time and financial commitment. The cost of tuition, learning resources, and other fees can add up quickly, and not everyone can afford to take four years off to study full-time. Additionally, the pace of technological change means that some of what you learn in the first year of a degree program might be outdated by the time you graduate.

When I started my undergraduate program in 2006 at Midlands State University, laptops were rare. I don’t even remember any of my classmates having one. There was no social media and we had to book some time in the labs to use the computers and internet services provided by the school. By the time we were in our 4th year, things were different. Everyone had to have a laptop, we now had mobile phones that could access the internet and there was now Wifi at the university campus. I’m sure, now, if I was to go back, the experience would be completely different again. That’s how fast things just change in the tech world and adds on the pressure to stay “skilled-up” and relevant.

Pros and Cons of Certifications

Certifications, on the other hand, are typically more focused and can be completed in a shorter time frame. This makes them an attractive option for professionals who want to upskill quickly or pivot to a new area of tech without committing to a multi-year degree program. It’s possible to take up a certification program whilst working in a full time role or even studying for a degree. This is what I tried to do with my Networking Diploma and CCNA certification before and during my university studies. Had I completed either or both of these, I believe it would definitely have given my CV an edge as a new graduate looking for a job. I could have even landed a job before completing my degree!

Certifications can also be a way to demonstrate proficiency in specific tools or technologies that are in high demand. For instance, certifications in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data analytics can make a candidate stand out to employers looking for those specific skills. Another advantage of certifications is their cost. While some certifications can be pricey, they are generally less expensive than a full degree program. Many employers also offer reimbursement for certification exams, which can further reduce the financial burden.

However, the narrow focus of certifications can also be a drawback. They don’t provide the same broad educational foundation that a degree does, which might limit career flexibility in the long run. Imagine if I had stayed on pursing the CCNA certification without a degree or diploma in Networking? I would have been limited to just working on Cisco technology and would not have had the opportunity to explore my love for application support and database technologies. Additionally, the value of a certification can vary depending on the issuer, training delivered and the specific technology. Some certifications are highly respected, while others might not carry much weight with employers.

So, which is better?

The answer really depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If you’re just starting out and can afford the time and money, a degree might be the best option as it provides a strong foundation and opens up a wide range of career opportunities. If you’re new to or are already working in tech and want to specialise or transition to a new area, certifications can be a quicker and more cost-effective way to achieve your goals.

It’s also worth noting that the decision doesn’t have to be either this or that. Many professionals benefit from a combination of both. You might start with a degree to build a strong foundation and then pursue certifications later to stay current with new technologies or to specialise in a particular area. I know a lot of people who have done this and the reverse as well. Remember my colleagues who didn’t have university degrees? Well, I can tell you now that most of them eventually studied for and earned degrees. This hybrid approach can offer the best of both worlds, providing a broad educational background along with specific, up-to-date skills. It also prepares professionals for supervisory, management and other higher up executive roles in tech.

This was such a long read so let’s wrap it up!

In conclusion, both degrees and certifications have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on your career stage, financial situation, and professional goals. For some, a degree will provide the comprehensive education and networking opportunities needed to launch a successful career. For others, certifications offer a more flexible and affordable way to gain the skills and credentials needed to advance or change career paths. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and both paths can lead to a fulfilling and successful career in tech. The key is for you to embrace continuous learning. Whether you choose a degree, certifications, or both, staying curious and committed to learning will always keep you one step ahead in this ever-evolving world of tech.