4 Major Types of College Degrees

What is a College Degree?

College degrees are formal recognitions of educational attainment conferred by colleges and universities after completing specific academic requirements. These degrees validate an individual’s expertise in a particular subject area and enhance their qualifications for potential job opportunities.

College or professional degrees are categorized into 4 types (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate.) based on the level of education completed and the depth of knowledge acquired. They serve as beacons of intellectual achievement, guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of their chosen disciplines.
Beyond the educational world, degrees empower graduates with the following:

• Expertise: College degrees provide in-depth knowledge and specialized skills in a particular field, equipping individuals to excel in their chosen careers.
  
• Credibility: A degree validates one’s educational accomplishments and enhances credibility in professional settings, making individuals more attractive to potential employers.
  
• Career Advancement: Many careers require a specific degree as a prerequisite for entry or advancement. Degrees often open doors to higher-paying positions and greater responsibilities.
  
• Personal Growth: And lastly, it fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, nurturing personal growth and intellectual curiosity.

If you’re looking for an article about the benefits of a 4-year college degree, read our linked article.

If you’re looking for a quick overview of the types of degrees, this video might just be the perfect one for you:

Associate Degree

The Associate degree is a foundational stepping stone in higher education, offering a balanced blend of fundamental knowledge and practical skills.

This two-year program provides individuals with an entry point into various industries, equipping them with the right skills and knowledge for their professional journey or continuing their education.

Common Associate Degrees:

Associate degrees encompass a diverse range of fields, catering to both academic and vocational pursuits. Some of the most common types of an associate degree or undergraduate degrees include:

• Associate of Arts (AA):  This associate degree focuses on liberal arts and humanities. It emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and a well-rounded education.
  
• Associate of Science (AS): This degree focuses on scientific disciplines and mathematics. It prepares students for careers in STEM-related fields.
  
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS): This degree focuses on vocational and technical skills. It equips individuals for immediate entry into the workforce.
  
• Associate of Business Administration (ABA): This degree covers foundational business concepts. It prepares students for roles in various business environments.
  
• Associate of Nursing (ASN): This degree is designed for aspiring nurses. It provides foundational healthcare knowledge and clinical skills.
  

Associate Program Length of Courses and Requirements:

• Duration: Associate degree programs typically span two academic years, equivalent to four semesters of full-time study. This condensed time frame is conducive to swift entry into the workforce or further educational pursuits.
  
• Credit Hours: The curriculum comprises approximately 60 credit hours of coursework distributed across general education requirements, major-specific courses, and electives.
  
• Course Variety: Students encounter a mix of general education subjects, such as English, mathematics, and social sciences, alongside introductory courses specific to their chosen field of study.
  
• Hands-On Learning: Many Associate degree programs emphasize practical skills through hands-on experiences, lab work, internships, or cooperative education opportunities.
  

Associate Degree Admission Requirements and Advantages:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is typically required to enroll in an Associate degree program.
  
• Placement Tests: Some institutions may require placement tests to assess student’s readiness for college-level coursework, particularly in math and English.
  

The Associate degree journey is a dynamic and empowering route that opens doors to immediate employment opportunities or further educational pursuits.

Whether one enters the workforce with practical skills or continues their educational journey, the Associate degree is a sturdy foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.

Bachelor’s Degree

A Bachelor’s degree program represents a comprehensive educational odyssey that focuses on a chosen field of study, cultivating a well-rounded understanding and honing critical skills.

This four-year undergraduate degree is a journey that is a key stepping stone, preparing individuals for many career paths, graduate studies, and personal growth. In recent years, there have also been a rise in online accelerated bachelor’s degrees. These are degrees that often offer shorter lengths. You can check out our separate article about it if you want to know more.

Common Bachelor’s Degrees:

Bachelor’s degrees span various subjects, catering to diverse interests and aspirations. Some of the most common Bachelor’s degrees include:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA): This focuses on the humanities, social sciences, and arts. It fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural understanding.
  
• Bachelor of Science (BS): This is centered on scientific and technical fields. It emphasizes empirical research, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
  
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): This is geared towards business disciplines. It equips students with managerial, financial, and entrepreneurial skills.
  
• Bachelor of Engineering (BEng): This degree is designed for aspiring engineers; it covers various engineering disciplines and prepares graduates for innovative technical roles.
  
• Bachelor of Nursing (BSN): This degree caters to future nurses; it blends medical knowledge with hands-on clinical practice and ethical considerations.
  

Length of Bachelor’s Courses and Requirements:

• Duration: Bachelor’s degree programs generally span four academic years, equivalent to eight semesters of full-time study. This extended time frame allows for an in-depth exploration of the chosen field.
  
• Credit Hours: The curriculum comprises approximately 120 credit hours, encompassing a blend of general education prerequisites, major-specific courses, and elective subjects.
  
• Core and Elective Courses: Students encounter a combination of core courses that establish a foundation in the field alongside elective courses that provide specialization and flexibility.
  
• Research and Projects: Many Bachelor’s degree programs require students to engage in research projects, group collaborations, or practical assignments to apply theoretical knowledge.
  

Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements and Advantages:

• High School Diploma: A high school diploma or equivalent is the primary requirement for enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree program.
  
• Standardized Tests: Some institutions may require standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, as part of the admission process.
  

The Bachelor’s degree expedition is an enriching voyage that unlocks doors to many possibilities. Whether one embarks on a career immediately or chooses to pursue further education, the Bachelor’s degree journey equips individuals with a robust skill set, a deep understanding of their chosen discipline, and the confidence to thrive in a dynamic world.

As graduates enter the professional realm, they do so with a potent blend of knowledge, experience, and the spirit of intellectual exploration.

Master’s Degree

The Master’s degree represents the pinnacle of academic pursuit, enabling individuals to study in depth their chosen field and emerge as subject matter experts. This advanced journey, typically spanning one to three years, is a testament to dedication, research, and specialization.

Common Master’s Degrees:

Master’s degrees encompass a wide scope of disciplines, offering specialized knowledge and advanced skills. Some of the most common master’s or graduate degrees include:

• Master of Arts (MA): This focuses on the humanities, liberal arts, and social sciences, fostering critical analysis, research, and theoretical understanding.
  
• Master of Science (MS): This concentrates on scientific and technical fields. A master’s in science emphasizes research, experimentation, and advanced problem-solving.
  
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): This is geared towards business leadership and management. It equips individuals with strategic thinking, decision-making, and entrepreneurial skills.
  
• Master of Education (MEd): This is designed for educators. It enhances teaching techniques, curriculum development, and educational leadership.
  
• Master of Public Health (MPH): This caters to public health professionals. It allows individuals to explore epidemiology, health policy, and community health initiatives.
  

Master’s Degree Length of Courses and Requirements:

• Duration: Master’s degree programs typically take one to three years of full-time study, depending on the field, the program structure, and whether they include a research component.
  
• Credit Hours: The curriculum generally requires 30 to 60 credit hours, comprising core courses, specialized electives, and often a research or thesis component.
  
• Core and Specialized Courses: Master’s degree programs blend core courses that deepen foundational knowledge with specialized courses that delve into advanced concepts.
  
• Research and Thesis: Many Master’s programs involve original research culminating in a thesis or a comprehensive project demonstrating expertise in a specific area.
  

Master’s Program Admission Requirements and Advantages:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is a prerequisite for enrolling in a Master’s degree program.
  
• Standardized Tests: Some programs may require standardized test scores, such as the GRE or GMAT, while others prioritize professional experience, portfolios, or interviews.
  

The Master’s degree expedition is a transformative voyage that propels individuals to the forefront of their disciplines.

By immersing themselves in advanced coursework, rigorous research, and specialized training, graduates emerge as knowledgeable professionals and as innovators and thought leaders. This journey empowers individuals to shape their industries and contribute to the latest research and inventions in our society.

Doctorate Degree

The doctorate, or the doctoral degree is the apex of academic attainment, representing the highest level of expertise, research, and contribution to a chosen field. This rigorous pursuit, often requiring years of dedication, marks individuals as trailblazers in their disciplines, propelling them to the forefront of innovation and scholarship.

Common Doctorate Degrees:

Doctorate degrees encompass various fields, representing the pinnacle of scholarship and research. Some of the most common doctorate or doctoral degrees include:

• Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): This degree spans various disciplines, emphasizing original research, critical thinking, and contributions to the field’s knowledge.
  
• Doctor of Education (EdD): This doctoral degree focuses on educational leadership and administration. It equips individuals to drive educational reform and policy.
  
• Doctor of Medicine (MD): This caters to medical professionals or individuals in the healthcare industry. It involves extensive clinical training, research, and the practical application of medical knowledge.
  
• Doctor of Psychology (PsyD): This is tailored for aspiring psychologists. It emphasizes clinical practice and practical applications of psychological principles.
  
• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA): This is geared toward business professionals. It focuses on advanced research in business theory, strategy, and management.
  

Doctorate Degree Length of Programs and Requirements:

• Duration: Doctorate or doctoral programs vary significantly in duration, often spanning two to six years of full-time study. The length is influenced by factors such as the field of study, research complexity, and the individual’s progress.
  
• Credit Hours: Unlike undergraduate and Master’s programs, Doctorate degrees are not typically measured in credit hours. The emphasis is on original research, comprehensive examinations, and completing a dissertation or thesis.
  
• Research and Dissertation: Central to Doctorate programs is the completion of a substantial research project, often as a dissertation or thesis. This research showcases original contributions to the field.
  
• Comprehensive Examinations: Many Doctorate programs require comprehensive exams that assess the breadth and depth of a student’s knowledge in their field of study.
  

Doctoral Degree Admission Prerequisites and Advantages:

• Master’s Degree: Most Doctorate programs require a Master’s degree in a related field as a prerequisite for admission.
  
• Statement of Purpose and Recommendations: Applicants to doctoral programs typically need to submit a statement of purpose outlining their research interests and goals, along with letters of recommendation.

The Doctorate degree ascent is an awe-inspiring journey that pushes the boundaries of knowledge, shapes industries, and contributes to a greater understanding of the world.

By immersing themselves in rigorous research, analytical thinking, and the pursuit of original contributions, Doctorate graduates emerge as leaders who influence their fields and leave an indelible mark on academia, research, and society.

This exceptional commitment is a testament to the power of human intellect, curiosity, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Popular Online College Degrees or Programs

Gone are the days when people studied online or remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the global epidemic we all experienced in 2020, several schools converted their face-to-face learning to online learning. This allowed students to graduate in front of their phones, laptops, or monitors without stepping on their schools.

Here is a list of the most popular online programs that you can take in 2023:

Business Administration

A degree in Business Administration is designed to equip students with a strong understanding of organizational management, strategic decision-making, and effective leadership within the business industry.

Students take subjects like finance, marketing, human resources, and operations management. The focus lies in developing analytical skills to evaluate market trends, financial data, and consumer behavior, enabling graduates to devise and execute strategies for sustainable growth.

Computer Science

A degree in Computer Science revolves around systematically studying algorithms, programming languages, data structures, and computer systems. The primary focus is on cultivating problem-solving skills and technical expertise to design and develop innovative software solutions.

Computer Science graduates are equipped to analyze complex problems, create efficient algorithms, and implement software applications that drive technological advancements. They are one of the important players shaping the digital landscape by creating new software, enhancing existing systems, and addressing computational challenges across industries.

Marketing

A degree in marketing focuses on the study of consumer behavior, market research, branding, and advertising strategies. The focus is on understanding how to effectively communicate with target audiences, create impactful campaigns, and drive customer engagement.

Marketing graduates develop the skills to analyze market trends, gather consumer insights, and design marketing initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences. Mastering the art of strategic messaging and brand management enhances brand visibility, customer loyalty, and business growth.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science degrees are centered around studying ecosystems, natural resources, environmental sustainability, and the impact of human activities on the planet. The focus lies in understanding complex environmental challenges and developing innovative solutions to address pollution, climate change, and resource depletion.

Environmental Science graduates are equipped to conduct research, implement conservation strategies, and advocate for sustainable practices that safeguard the environment for present and future generations.

Finance

A degree in finance emphasizes the study of financial markets, investment strategies, risk management, and corporate finance. The focus is on mastering financial analysis, evaluating investment opportunities, and making informed decisions to maximize returns and minimize risks.

Finance graduates have the skills to analyze economic trends, manage assets, and optimize financial resources for individuals and organizations. Their expertise is instrumental in guiding investment decisions, managing portfolios, and contributing to the financial stability of businesses and individuals.

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner degrees focus on advanced nursing practice, patient care, and healthcare management. Graduates gain in-depth clinical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and expertise in providing evidence-based care.

The focus lies in preparing advanced practice nurses to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and develop treatment plans. Nurse Practitioners are integral members of healthcare teams, addressing patients’ holistic needs, promoting health and wellness, and contributing to improving healthcare delivery.

Engineering

Engineering degrees encompass various disciplines, each focusing on designing, creating, and innovating solutions to real-world problems. Whether it’s civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or another engineering field, the emphasis is on applying scientific principles, mathematics, and technical expertise to develop practical and efficient solutions.

Engineering graduates are equipped to design infrastructure, create new technologies, optimize systems, and contribute to advancements that enhance the quality of life and drive progress across industries.

Cybersecurity

A degree in Cyber Security protects digital assets, data, and information systems from cyber threats and attacks. The focus lies in understanding hackers’ tactics, implementing preventive measures, and developing strategies to detect and respond to security breaches.

Cybersecurity graduates possess the skills to analyze vulnerabilities, develop secure networks, and safeguard sensitive information, playing a vital role in protecting organizations from growing cybercrime threats and ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of digital resources.

Healthcare Administration

Healthcare Administration degrees focus on managing and leading healthcare organizations, institutions, and facilities. The focus is on developing healthcare policy, finance, quality improvement, and operational management skills.

Graduates are equipped to oversee healthcare delivery, optimize resources, navigate regulatory frameworks, and ensure the efficient functioning of healthcare systems. Healthcare administrators are critical to improving patient care, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving strategic initiatives that shape the healthcare landscape.

Data Science

Data Science degrees center on extracting insights from large and complex datasets to inform decision-making and drive innovation. The focus is on mastering data analysis techniques, statistical modeling, and machine learning algorithms.

Data Science graduates possess the skills to collect, clean, analyze, and visualize data, providing actionable insights that guide strategic planning, enhance business processes, and contribute to informed decision-making across industries.

Project Management

A degree in Project Management emphasizes planning, executing, and controlling projects to achieve specific goals within defined constraints. The focus is on developing skills in project planning, resource allocation, risk management, and communication.

Project Management graduates are equipped to lead cross-functional teams, manage timelines, budgets, and resources, and ensure successful project outcomes. Their expertise contributes to effective project execution, efficient resource utilization, and the realization of organizational objectives.

Accounting

Accounting degrees revolve around the study of financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting. The focus lies in understanding financial transactions, analyzing financial statements, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations.

Accounting graduates possess the skills to interpret financial data, provide accurate financial insights, and guide organizations in making informed financial decisions. Their expertise is essential for maintaining financial transparency, facilitating budgeting, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Animation and Graphic Design

Animation and Graphic Design college degrees center on visual storytelling, digital artistry, and creative communication. The focus is on mastering design principles, digital tools, and techniques to create captivating visuals for various media platforms.

Graduates possess the skills to conceptualize and produce animations, illustrations, and graphics that engage audiences, convey messages, and contribute to effective visual communication in the entertainment, marketing, and advertising industries.

However, if the degree you’re looking for isn’t on the list, it might be among the college degree you need to avoid. We’ve prepared a separate article for that!

Most Affordable College Degrees in the US

Studying may cost you a lot of money, depending on the course/degree/program you are enrolling in. I prepared a tuition fee range for the most affordable degrees available in the US.

1. IT: $10,500 to $39,000 / year

2. Marketing: $30,000 to $70,000 / year

3. Finance: $24,000 to $75,000 / year

4. Public Relations: $36,500 to $131,000 / year

5. Computer Science: $13,000 to $47,000 / year

6. Public Administration: $10,000 to $38,000 / year

7. Health and Human Services: $11,000 to $28,000 / year

8. Economics: $24,000 to $62,000 / year

9. Business Administration: $15,000 to $55,000 / year

10. Criminal Justice: $28,000 to $38,000 / year
    

However, the prices of most professional degree programs may vary depending on the university or school you want to enroll in, which state you live in, or what type of degree you are going for. Just a quick reminder: please conduct research or consult the school you wish to enroll in when planning a degree. One of the best places to look for potential salaries is by visiting Glassdoor.

Now that we’re talking about salaries, here is an article that talks about the best paying college degrees.

Certifications, Training, etc.

Aside from the different types of college degrees, one can pursue certifications and training before deciding to pursue their dream program. Here are the best certifications and trainings out there:

Course Careers

Course Careers is a platform or service that offers courses and educational content related to various career paths or industries. These courses help individuals acquire specific skills, knowledge, and expertise relevant to their chosen career fields.

Google Certificates

Google Certificates are educational programs offered by Google in collaboration with various learning platforms. These programs are designed to provide practical, job-ready skills in specific technology and digital marketing areas.

Completing these courses can help you earn a Google Certificate, which can be a valuable addition to one’s resume and showcase expertise in the relevant subject matter.

LinkedIn Certificates

LinkedIn Learning offers a wide range of courses on business, technology, creative skills, and personal development.

You can complete these courses to gain knowledge and skills, and upon completion, you will receive a certificate that you can display in your LinkedIn profile. It can highlight your commitment to continuous learning and skill development to potential employers.

Coursera

Coursera is an online learning platform that partners with universities, colleges, and organizations to offer courses, specializations, and even complete degree programs online. It covers many subjects, including fine arts, science, engineering, business, and more.

Courses on Coursera are taught by instructors from prestigious institutions and are designed to be flexible, allowing learners to study at their own pace.

If you want to know more about certifications, college degrees, online programs, or bootcamps, here’s a video that might pique your interest:

A Quick Summary on the Types of College Degrees

In conclusion, the landscape of the different types of college degrees is diverse and dynamic, offering individuals a range of paths to personal growth, career advancement, and expertise in their chosen fields. The four major types of college degrees—associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctorate—are milestones in this journey, each equipping graduates with distinct skills and knowledge.

From the foundational knowledge gained in Associate programs to the specialized expertise attained through Doctorate degrees, education opens doors to diverse opportunities and shapes individuals into leaders and innovators.

The advent of online learning platforms and certificates, such as those provided by Course Careers, Google, LinkedIn, and Coursera, has further democratized education.

These platforms offer accessible and flexible avenues for continuous learning, allowing individuals to acquire targeted skills that align with current industry demands. The digital age has transformed education into a lifelong pursuit, enabling professionals to adapt, upskill, and remain relevant in an ever-evolving job market.

As we navigate a world driven by innovation and change, pursuing education remains a constant. Whether one seeks an Associate degree to enter the workforce, a Bachelor’s degree to cultivate a well-rounded understanding, a Master’s degree to become a subject matter expert, or a Doctorate to push the boundaries of knowledge, education empowers individuals to explore their potential, contribute to society, and shape the future.

The journey for the different types of college degrees may vary, but the impact of education is undeniable, shaping individuals into informed thinkers, skilled practitioners, and trailblazers in their chosen fields. If you want help picking the right college degree, the linked article will greatly help you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of College Degrees

What are the Highest and Lowest College Degrees?

Here are the highest-to-lowest types of degrees in college: Doctorate Degree, Master’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, and Associate Degree. Oftentimes, you’re required to take up the lower degree to be able to enroll in the next level. For example, a bachelor’s degree is often required to enter a master’s program.

What are some of the easiest college degrees to get into with a good salary?

It depends on what school, degree type, and country or state you live in. Here are the easiest college degrees with good salaries: Data analyst, Cloud computing, Nursing Accounting, Economics, Information Technology, and Management Information Systems.

Here are the easiest college degrees to get into that pay well:

What is the number 1 hardest college degree?

For me, it’s going to be Engineering Physics. Physics is a rigorous college degree due to its complex concepts, demanding mathematical foundation, and interdisciplinary nature. It challenges students with abstract theories, intricate math, and hands-on experimentation. The shift in conceptual paradigms, such as quantum mechanics and relativity, demands critical thinking. Intensive study hours, high expectations, and the need to reconcile counterintuitive notions contribute to its difficulty.

I also have a list prepared for the hardest majors in college. Watch the video below:

Is a degree really necessary to become successful?

Not really. But getting one can be an advantage. After you graduate with a degree, you can try other things, like running a business or freelancing. If those things don’t work for you, at least you have a degree or profession that you can practice or apply for.

What is the difference between a major and a degree?

A “degree” is formal recognition of educational attainment (e.g., associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate), while a “major” is a specific area of study chosen within a degree program. Degrees represent academic levels; majors focus on specialized coursework in a chosen field. For example, with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, a student might major in Biology, Computer Science, or Psychology.

What are Community Colleges?

Community colleges are higher education institutions that offer two-year or two-semester associate programs. They also offer vocational and technical training programs. If you want to know more, our article about community college degrees might help.