Certification is a nonstatutory requirement, which distinguishes it from licensure. Licensure, a more restrictive regulation, grants individuals a legal right to practice a profession given the minimum requirements established by the profession are met. Employment or advancement in a specific career is the main purpose of enrollment in an associate degree program. Persons having this degree are deemed to have the qualifications that make them potential candidates for degree-requiring jobs. Comparison of Benefits Earnings.
Many studies verify that education beyond high school results in higher earnings.
The highest earnings benefits, however, are dependent upon certification or degree achievement. However, not obtaining the degree results in some penalty. Professional and vocational certificate holders exhibit a wide range of salary differences. For example, MDs earn more than RNs. Accreditation of a program also affects certification and licensure.