A Guide to Different Types & Levels of College Degrees
When it comes to pursuing higher education after high school, there are various types of college degrees you can obtain. Understanding these degrees and their differences can help you make an informed decision about your future. In this guide, you will learn about the different types of college degrees available, and how they can help you reach your career and college goals.
Types of College Degrees
Types of College Degrees
There are four main types of college degrees students can earn. Often college degrees are built upon each other with previous knowledge being expected to continue, each level increasing in its requirements such as credit hours and hands-on experience.
You'll find that some levels of degrees are not available at all institutions. Once you narrow down your academic pathway, you can make decisions about which school is right for you.
College degrees in order from lowest to highest:
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Degree
Associate Degree
Typical Program Length: 2 Years
An associate degree is typically a two-year program offered by community colleges, technical schools, career colleges, and some four-year universities. An associate degree provides foundational knowledge in a specific field and can be used for employment opportunities or towards a bachelor's degree.
Types of Associate Degrees - Associate of Arts (AA):
- The AA degree is primarily geared towards subjects such as English, history, social sciences, and the arts, and can be used to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program.
- Associate of Science (AS): The AS degree is usually focused on science, mathematics, or technology and can also be used to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree program.
- Associate of Applied Arts (AAA): The AAA degree is typically tailored for students pursuing careers in creative fields like graphic design, animation, and music production.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS): The AAS degree is designed to equip students with practical skills for specific careers in areas like healthcare, technology, business, and engineering.
What Can You Do With an Associate Degree?
There are lots of things you can do with an associate degree across multiple fields ranging from hands-on medical jobs to creative careers in art. Associate degrees are a great way to enter the workforce with some additional training and experience without spending as much time or money as attending a traditional four-year university.
The downside is that some associate degrees prepare you for a very specific skill set, and you would need additional training down the road to switch careers or advance in your field.
Associate degree jobs include:
- Registered Nurse
- Web Designer
- Pastry Chef
- Medical Sonographer
- Dental Hygienist
- Graphic Designer
Bachelor's Degree
Typical Program Length: 4 Years
A bachelor's degree is an undergraduate degree typically completed in four years at a college or university. It offers in-depth study in a specific discipline and provides a well-rounded education through a combination of general education courses and major-specific coursework. Bachelor's degrees are available in a wide range of fields, including liberal arts, sciences, engineering, business, education, and much more.
Types of Bachelor's Degrees
There are more than 80 recognized forms of bachelor’s degrees, but the two most common are Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.).
Main differences between a B.A. vs. B.S. degree:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) coursework focuses on the arts and humanities such as writing, art, history, philosophy, religion, etc.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) coursework generally focuses on STEM subjects as well as business and health professions. STEM subjects are any subjects that can be classified under the disciplines of science, technology, engineering or mathematics. This provides students with a wide range of available majors.
Explore the list of different STEM majors.
Once you’ve gotten your bachelor’s degree, you may consider getting a graduate degree to sharpen your skills and deepen your knowledge. Depending on your career path, you may need a graduate or professional degree.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree?
Earning a bachelor’s degree allows you to enter the job market with four years of study. While earning your degree, you will likely complete major-focused coursework, a summer internship, and find mentors.
You may find that some jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree to be considered, although this is not the case in all career fields! Spend time researching careers that interest you and see what type of education is required. Ask your mentors what their career journey looked like, and get advice from professionals in the careers you're pursuing.
Bachelor’s degree jobs include:
- Marketing Assistant
- Project Manager
- Software Developer
- Elementary Teacher
- Accountant
- UI/UX Designer
Master's Degree
Typical Program Length: 1-3 Years
A master's degree is a graduate-level degree that can require one to three years of study after a bachelor's degree. It offers specialized knowledge and expertise in a particular field and often involves research or a thesis project. Many professions, such as teaching, social work, business, art, writing, theatre, and engineering may require a master's degree for advanced positions or career advancement.
Types of Master’s Degrees
- Master of Arts (M.A.): This degree is typically awarded for studies in the humanities, social sciences, or fine arts. 
- Master of Science (M.S.): This degree is typically awarded for studies in the natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, or technology. 
- Master of Education (M.Ed.): This degree is intended for educators who want to advance their knowledge and skills in teaching, curriculum development, educational leadership, or counseling. 
- Master of Engineering (M.E): This degree is similar to the M.S. degree, but focuses more on the application of engineering principles and methods to solve real-world problems. 
- Master of Laws (LL.M): This degree is designed for lawyers who want to specialize in a particular area of law or gain an international perspective on legal issues. 
- Master of Public Administration (MPA): This degree is aimed at preparing graduates for careers in public service, government, or non-profit organizations. 
- Master of Public Health (MPH): This degree is focused on improving the health and well-being of populations and communities through research, education, and practice.
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA): This degree is similar to the M.A. degree, but focuses on coursework in a specific artistic field, such as visual arts, performing arts, creative writing, or design. Many MFAs are considered terminal degrees, meaning that it is the highest degree you can earn in that subject matter.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree?
Earning a bachelor’s degree allows you to enter the job market with four years of study. While earning your degree, you will likely complete major-focused coursework, a summer internship, and find mentors.
You may find that some jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree to be considered, although this is not the case in all career fields! Spend time researching careers that interest you and see what type of education is required. Ask your mentors what their career journey looked like, and get advice from professionals in the careers you're pursuing.
Bachelor’s degree jobs include:
- Marketing Assistant
- Project Manager
- Software Developer
- Elementary Teacher
- Accountant
- UI/UX Designer
Doctoral Degree
Typical Program Length: 1-3 Years
A doctoral degree, is the highest level of education one can attain. It typically requires several years of rigorous study, research, and the completion of a dissertation or licensing examination. Doctoral degrees are primarily pursued by those interested in academic or research careers, but they can also be valuable in fields like medicine, education, law, and psychology.
Types of Doctoral Degrees
- Veterinary Medicine
- Education
- Nursing Practice
- Physical Therapy
- Psychology (Clinical, Developmental, Organizational Behavior, Forensic, Social, etc.)
- Marketing
- Educational Leadership
- Mathematics
Ph.D. Programs
A Ph.D. program is a doctorate degree that has slightly different requirements than other professional doctorates. A Ph.D. is focused on your own research and advancing theories in the field. At the end of your Ph.D. you must present your findings, typically in front of a committee, via a dissertation. A dissertation is an academic paper that summarizes all your research and findings in response to your original theory or question. The committee will ask you questions, and you must be able to defend your findings.
Professional Degrees
Professional degrees are specialized degrees designed to prepare students for specific careers such as doctor, lawyer, or veterinarian. Most professional degrees can take three to five years to complete. These degrees often have specific requirements and may require professional licensure or certification. Some examples of professional degrees include Medical Doctor (M.D.), Juris Doctor (J.D.), Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.).
What Can You Do With a Doctorate Degree?
A doctorate degree allows you to pursue advanced career pathways. The skills you learn during your doctorate program will allow you to better apply the principles of that field to the problems you face in everyday situations. For example, if you were to become a veterinarian, you would encounter unfamiliar situations that would require you to piece together theories and knowledge from your studies to make informed decisions to solve the problem in front of you.
Because students learn to think this way, you will find that many who achieve doctorate level degrees shape the minds of those around them through teaching, consulting, or other means. They make for strong leaders who can give clear direction and support to the teams they are working with.
Doctorate jobs include:
- Professor
- Principal
- Biologist
- Consultant
- Historian
- Therapist
Other Types of Degrees & Programs
Joint Degree Program
Looking to fast track your education? Consider a joint degree program, where you can earn your bachelor's at the same time as your master's degree. These special programs allow you to count some of your credits for both your undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Students who are interested in pursuing this path will find that the bachelor’s and master’s need to be related for the courses to overlap. For example, you might earn a Bachelor of Arts at the same time as a Master of Arts. It will likely take you longer to graduate, but once you do, you’ll have two diplomas ready to help you stand out!
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are short-term educational programs that focus on specific skills or knowledge in a particular field. These programs are typically offered by colleges, universities, or vocational schools and can be completed in a few months to a year. Certificates are valuable for enhancing job skills or transitioning into a new career field.
How to Choose the Degree Program That Is Right for You
Remember, the choice of a college degree depends on your interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Consider exploring different fields, researching career options, and speaking with people in your desired field to make an informed decision. Pursuing higher education is an exciting journey that can open doors to endless opportunities. If you need help deciding what you should study in college, go take ACT’s Interest Inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions About College Degree Levels
What is a two-year degree called?
A two-year degree is called an associate’s degree. These degrees can typically be completed at community colleges, trade schools, and some four-year institutions.
What degree comes after a bachelor's degree?
If you are looking to continue your education journey after a bachelor’s, you have a few graduate degree options. You can consider a master’s degree or doctorate degree. The route you choose to pursue will likely be based on your career goals and field of study.
What is the difference between a bachelor’s and master’s degree?
A bachelor’s degree is considered an undergraduate degree, meaning it will prepare you for the necessary skills needed to enter the workforce in your desired field. A master’s degree is a graduate degree where you can complete additional education to either enter a more specialized field or gain additional training to become a more advanced leader. You must complete a bachelor's degree to advance to a master’s degree.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree?
A bachelor’s degree can typically be completed in four years. If you earn your associate’s degree first and then return for a bachelor’s, it may only take you an additional two years to complete the required additional credit hours.
How many years is a master's degree?
A master’s degree typically takes an additional one to three years to complete after you earn your bachelor’s degree. You may be required to present on a capstone project or demonstrate your knowledge to officially earn your degree.