diploma

/dəˈploʊmə/

/dɪˈplʌʊmə/

Other forms: diplomas

A diploma is a document people receive when they graduate from a school or program. It is a symbol of academic success. You often see framed diplomas displayed in a doctor's office.

Are you working toward a diploma? Then you must be in school. People receive high school and college diplomas, which they usually receive during a graduation ceremony. You could also get a diploma for a shorter series of classes in something like pottery, skydiving, or marksmanship. Even a dog could get a diploma for passing obedience school. Any time someone gets a diploma, you can be sure they finished a course or program of learning.

Definitions of diploma

1. noun

   a document certifying the successful completion of a course of study
   synonyms: sheepskin

   types:

   HND, Higher National Diploma

   a diploma given for vocational training that prepares the student for a career in a particular area; good students may progress to a course leading to a degree

   type of:

   certificate, certification, credential, credentials

   a document attesting to the truth of certain stated facts