Classification of combinations of certificates, diplomas and degrees awarded

Usage

The Classification of combinations of certificates, diplomas and degrees awarded uses the hierarchy of educational credentials specified in the Classification of highest certificate, diploma or degree to create two separate hierarchies; one branching from 'No high school diploma or equivalency certificate' and the other from 'With high school diploma or equivalency certificate.' However, in a number of instances the levels are not entirely hierarchical when comparing programs across different types of institutions.

With the exception of high school diplomas or equivalency certificates, the qualifications in the categories of this classification pertain to the highest certificate, diploma or degree obtained, and do not refer to certificates, diplomas or degrees 'ever obtained' or that which is 'most recent'. Where 'highest' appears in brackets in the category name, it may be omitted when the context provides clarification.

While the categories of this classification represent Canadian awards and qualifications, this standard does not exclude equivalent qualifications obtained from accredited educational institutions or government bodies in other countries.

The phrase 'high school diploma or equivalency certificate,' is synonymous with 'secondary school diploma or equivalency certificate.'