A certificate program is a specialized education designed to develop or strengthen specific career skills. It is a non-degree program that awards a certificate or document verifying successful completion. Certificate courses are narrowly focused and explore the actionable skills needed to work in a particular industry. They tend to focus on skills development so that students can become job-ready. Depending on the subject studied, students can learn technical skills or the know-how needed to perform work-related tasks, as well as refine key transferable skills like critical thinking, decision making, and attention to detail. Certificate programs are generally shorter and more affordable than degree programs, typically taking between a few months to a few years to complete. They are geared towards adult students and those who are looking for short-term training leading to immediate employment. Certificate programs are non-degree programs and are usually provided at two main levels: undergraduate and graduate. Undergraduate certificate programs are geared towards students with a high school diploma or GED, while graduate certificate programs are meant for students who already have an undergraduate degree.