IT Certifications vs an IT Degree: Which Do You Need?
Last updated: November 2026 · Written by the StudyWay Editorial Team
Quick answer
IT certifications prove specific, practical skills with particular technologies, such as networking, cloud, operating systems, security or programming. Major technology companies and industry bodies offer them. An IT degree gives broad, deep knowledge of computing. Certifications are faster and very job-focused, and a degree opens more long-term and senior roles. Many IT professionals have both. IT certification courses have over 70,000 searches on StudyWay.
How do they compare?
| IT certifications | IT degree | |
|---|---|---|
| What it proves | Skill with a specific technology or role | Broad computing knowledge and problem-solving |
| Time to complete | Short: you prepare for one exam at a time | Longer: a full programme |
| Focus | Very practical and job-specific | Theory plus practice across many areas |
| Keeps value by | Renewing or upgrading as technology changes | Lasting as a base qualification |
| Best for | Getting a specific job quickly, or upskilling while working | Long-term careers, senior roles and further study |
Which certification areas are popular?
- Networking: setting up and managing networks.
- Cloud and systems: working with cloud platforms and server operating systems.
- Security: security fundamentals and ethical hacking.
- Programming: certifications in specific programming languages.
- Office and productivity: skills for business software.
Choose certifications that match the job you want. Job adverts often list them.
When should I choose certifications?
- you already work in IT and want to move into a new area,
- you want a job-ready skill quickly,
- you have a degree and want to specialise,
- or the role you want asks for a specific certification.
When should I choose a degree?
- you're starting your career after A/L,
- you want broad knowledge and long-term growth,
- you plan to work abroad, where a degree is often expected,
- or you want to go on to a masters.
See Computer Science vs Software Engineering vs IT to choose a degree.
Tell us what you want to study, and institutes will contact you with options
Can I combine both?
Yes, and many people do. A common path is a diploma or degree for the foundation, plus certifications for the specific technologies you use at work. See our IT courses guide and networking and web development guide.
How do I prepare for a certification?
- take a course that follows the exam's official objectives,
- practise in labs, not just theory,
- take practice exams,
- and plan to renew or upgrade as technology changes.
Find your IT course on StudyWay
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an IT job with only certifications?
Yes, for some roles, especially in networking, support and cloud, if you also have practical skills. A degree helps with long-term growth.
Do certifications expire?
Many IT certifications need renewal or an upgrade after some time, because technology changes.
Are certifications recognised abroad?
Major industry certifications are recognised internationally, which is one reason they're popular.
Should I get certifications before or after a degree?
Either works. Many students add certifications during or after a degree to specialise.
Which certification should I start with?
Start with an entry-level certification in the area you want to work in, such as networking, cloud or security.