Types of Degrees

College degrees are generally categorized into five main types: vocational, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Each degree level equips students with specific skills and knowledge, preparing them for various career paths. As the degree level increases, typically from associate to doctoral, the depth of study intensifies.

Vocational Degree

Vocational degrees, also known as career or technical education, are specialized programs that equip individuals with practical skills and knowledge required for specific careers. These degrees focus on hands-on training and typically take less time to complete than traditional undergraduate programs, preparing students for real-world job tasks.

• Certificates that provide focused training the prepares people for work in specific trade areas.
• Classes are less likely to transfer towards a Bachelor degree.
• Time frame: 1-2 years
• Program examples: carpentry, plumbing, cosmetology
• School examples: Emily Griffith or Pickens Technical College

Associate Degree

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree awarded after a course of post-secondary (after high school) study lasting two to three years, providing a level of academic qualification above a high school diploma and below a bachelor’s degree. These degrees, which can be obtained from community colleges, junior colleges, online universities, or some four-year institutions, offer a practical option for students wanting to jumpstart their careers or serve as a pathway to a four-year degree.

• A two-year undergraduate academic qualification typically obtained from community college or junior college, providing foundational knowledge in specific field of study
• Time frame: 60 credits
• Program examples: Business, Engineering, Psychology
• School examples: Community College of Denver, Community College of Aurora

Bachelor Degree

A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate degree awarded by colleges and universities upon completion of a course of study lasting three to six years, depending on the institution and academic discipline. These degrees, which are the most common type of degree earned by students in the US, provide a comprehensive education in a specific field of study and are often prerequisites for further education and professional careers.

• A four-year undergraduate academic qualification earned from college or universities signifying the completion of a comprehensive program of study in a specific field.
• Time frame: 120 credits or more
• Program examples: Business, Engineering, Psychology
• School examples: Metropolitan State University of Denver, University of Colorado – Denver

Master and Doctorate Degrees

A master’s degree is a postgraduate (after Bachelor’s degree) academic degree awarded by universities or colleges upon completion of a course of study demonstrating mastery of a specific field of study or area of professional practice. A doctoral degree, often considered the highest degree one can earn in a given field, is also a postgraduate academic degree usually after a Master’s. It is typically granted after multiple years of graduate school and usually requires a dissertation, a lengthy academic paper based on original research.

• A master’s degree is a postgraduate academic qualification typically requiring one to two years of study beyond a bachelor’s degree.
• A doctorate (PhD, EdD, etc.) is the highest academic degree requiring original research and the completion of a dissertation, usually taking several years beyond a master’s degree.

Now that we know of the types of degrees, let’s consider their value next.