Definition
A diploma is a certificate or document issued by an educational institution, such as a school, college, or university, that testifies the recipient has successfully completed a particular course of study.
Etymology and Origin
The term diploma originates from the Greek word diplōma, meaning “folded paper”. Historically, diplomas were official documents of state or letters of introduction, folded in two, and bearing an official seal. The use of the term to signify a document certifying the completion of a course of study began in the 17th century, reflecting the document’s formal and accredited recognition of academic achievement.
