College Degrees

Before you choose a major

Degrees influence more than coursework — they shape careers, timelines, and opportunities. This resource helps you compare degree paths and understand how different choices affect long-term outcomes.

Degree Levels You Can Earn

Choosing the right degree level helps you align your education with your career goals, time commitment, and experience level. Whether you’re starting out or advancing your career, there’s a degree path that fits your needs.

Undergraduate Degrees You Can Earn

Undergraduate degrees are typically the first level of college education. They focus on building foundational knowledge, practical skills, and career readiness.

Associate’s Degree

A short-term undergraduate program designed to help you enter the workforce quickly or continue your education.

What to expect:

• Typically completed in 2 years
• Often offered by community colleges and online institutions
• Can lead directly to entry-level roles or transfer into a bachelor’s program

Common outcomes: Career readiness, skill-based roles, or a pathway to a bachelor’s degree.

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Bachelor’s Degree

A comprehensive undergraduate degree that provides both general education and in-depth study in a chosen field.

What to expect:

• Typically completed in 4 years
• Combines core coursework with major-specific classes
• Required for many professional and managerial roles

Common outcomes: Career advancement, higher earning potential, or eligibility for graduate study.

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Graduate Degrees You Can Earn

Graduate degrees build on undergraduate education and are designed for specialization, leadership, research, or advanced professional practice.

Master’s Degree

An advanced degree that allows you to deepen expertise or pivot into a specialized field.

What to expect:

• Typically 1–2 years beyond a bachelor’s degree
• Focused, career-oriented or research-based programs
• Often required for leadership or specialized roles

Common outcomes: Career advancement, specialization, higher responsibility, or increased earning potential.

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Doctorate Degree

The highest level of academic achievement, focused on advanced research or professional expertise.

What to expect:

• Typically 3–7 years beyond a bachelor’s or master’s degree
• Emphasis on original research, scholarship, or professional practice
• Required for certain academic, research, or executive roles

Common outcomes: Expert-level positions, academic careers, research leadership, or professional authority.

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