Returning to college for a degree can open up new opportunities for your future. There are four types of college degrees to know: associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral. Each degree has different requirements and will prepare you for different paths.

For example, to become a paralegal, applicants are expected to have an associate’s degree and/or a certification to apply. However, to become a full-fledged lawyer, you would at least need a master’s degree.

Whatever your academic or professional goals may be, it’s important to know your degree options and all their possibilities.

The College Degree Levels

Associate Degree

• Level: Undergraduate
• Usual Time to Complete: 1-2 Years
• Usual Credits Required: 60 Credits

Benefits of an Associate’s Degree: An associate degree can be a quick pathway to higher earnings and better job opportunities compared to just a high school diploma. It often serves as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree, providing foundational knowledge and skills.

Types: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Careers: Graduates with an associate degree can pursue careers such as dental hygienist, paralegal, registered nurse (RN), web developer, and HVAC technician. These roles typically require specialized training and can offer competitive salaries.

Typical Earnings Compared to High School Diploma: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), individuals with an associate degree earn about 20% more per week than those with only a high school diploma.

Bachelor’s Degree

• Level: Undergraduate
• Usual Time to Complete: 4 Years
• Usual Credits Required: 120 Credits

Benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree opens doors to a wider range of job opportunities and higher earning potential. It provides in-depth knowledge in a specific field and is often required for entry into many professional careers.

Types: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Careers: With a bachelor's degree, graduates can pursue careers such as software developer, financial analyst, marketing manager, elementary school teacher, and healthcare administrator. These positions often require a blend of technical skills, critical thinking, and practical experience.

Typical Earnings Compared to High School Diploma: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn about 64% more per week than those with only a high school diploma.

Master’s Degree

• Level: Graduate
• Usual Time to Complete: 1-3 Years
• Usual Credits Required: 30-60 Credits

Benefits of a Master’s Degree: A master’s degree allows for specialization in a specific field, leading to advanced career opportunities and higher earning potential. It can also be a requirement for certain professional roles and academic positions. Graduates often gain a deeper understanding of their field, enhanced research capabilities, and improved professional skills.

Types: Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (MEd)

Careers: Graduates with a master’s degree can advance into roles such as clinical psychologist, data scientist, education administrator, nurse practitioner, and business consultant. These careers often require advanced expertise and leadership skills.

Typical Earnings Compared to High School Diploma: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals with a master’s degree earn approximately 20% more per week than those with a bachelor’s degree.

Doctoral Degree

• Level: Graduate
• Usual Time to Complete: 2-10 Years
• Usual Credits Required: Varies Based on Program

Benefits of a Doctoral Degree: A doctoral degree represents the highest level of academic achievement, leading to expert status in a field. It opens opportunities for high-level research, academic, and professional roles, and significantly enhances earning potential. Graduates typically gain advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and the ability to contribute original research or innovations to their field.

Types: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), Juris Doctor (JD), Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Careers: With a doctoral degree, individuals can pursue careers such as university professor, research scientist, psychologist, medical doctor, and lawyer. These positions are often highly specialized and command significant respect and compensation.

Typical Earnings Compared to High School Diploma: The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that individuals with a doctoral degree earn about 80% more per week than those with only a high school diploma.

Conclusion

By understanding the different degree levels and their associated benefits, you can make informed decisions about your educational path. Each degree level offers unique advantages and can lead to a variety of fulfilling careers, helping you achieve your professional and personal goals. Whichever degree path you choose, take comfort in knowing that this is just the start of positioning yourself for success now and in the future.