Tertiary education, also known as post-secondary education, is any level of education pursued beyond high school. It includes undergraduate and graduate credentials such as certificates, diplomas, or academic degrees. Tertiary education is non-compulsory and provided in a specialist institution, usually a college, polytechnic, or university. The World Bank defines tertiary education as including public and private universities, colleges, technical training institutes, and vocational schools. Higher education is taken to include undergraduate and postgraduate education, while vocational education beyond secondary education is known as further education in the United Kingdom or included under the category of continuing education in the United States.

Tertiary education generally culminates in the receipt of certificates, diplomas, or academic degrees. UNESCO stated that tertiary education focuses on learning endeavors in specialized fields and includes academic and higher vocational education. Tertiary education benefits not just the individual, but society as a whole. Graduates of tertiary education are more environmentally conscious, have healthier habits, and have a higher level of civic participation. Also, increased tax revenues from higher earnings, healthier children, and reduced family size all build stronger nations.

Tertiary education can take place at community colleges, colleges, universities, technical schools, and vocational schools. Online options are also available. When pursuing tertiary education, students have the opportunity to apply for internships and network with professionals so that once they earn their degree or certificate, they may have already connected with the people they wish to work with in their career.