Classification of highest certificate, diploma or degree

22 - Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree (highest)

This category includes persons who have obtained a certificate, diploma or degree beyond the high school (secondary school) level from a postsecondary institution or a vocational certificate, diploma or degree awarded by provincial/territorial or federal authorities, such as a Journeyperson's designation in the trades or certain teaching and nursing certificates. Possession of a postsecondary qualification does not imply that the person has also completed a high school (secondary school) diploma or equivalency certificate. Persons who have a high school diploma or equivalency certificate as their only completed educational credential are excluded from this category.

221 - Postsecondary certificate or diploma below bachelor level (highest)

This category includes persons who have obtained a college, CEGEP or university certificate or diploma below the bachelor level and who have not obtained any higher certificates, diplomas or degrees. It also includes persons who received an apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma. Included are persons who have received a vocational certificate or diploma awarded by provincial/territorial or federal authorities, such as a Journeyperson's designation in the trades or some non-university teaching and nursing certificates. Also included are university certificates or diplomas below the bachelor level that are commonly connected with professional associations in fields such as accounting, banking, insurance or public administration. The certificates and diplomas referred to in this category do not require a bachelor's degree as a prerequisite.

222 - Bachelor's degree or higher (highest)

This category includes persons who have obtained a bachelor's degree, or a certificate, diploma or degree that typically has a bachelor's degree as a prerequisite, from a degree-granting institution. This includes persons who obtained a bachelor's degree; a degree in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine or optometry; a master's degree; or an earned doctorate. It also includes persons who have obtained a university certificate or diploma above the bachelor level.