GEAR UP

Certificate

People who go straight into the workplace usually do not have any formal credentials beyond a high school diploma. However, some people on this path might complete an apprenticeship or other on-the-job training. Most technical colleges award certificates showing completion of a program of study. Some also award associate degrees.

Associate Degree

Most community, technical, and career colleges award this two-year degree. Students can continue for four years at some colleges to earn a bachelor’s degree or enter the workforce.

Bachelor’s or Baccalaureate Degree

Most four-year colleges award bachelor’s degrees. Students typically complete four- or five-year programs in a specific academic discipline. The two most common bachelor’s degrees are a B.S. (Bachelor of Science) and a B.A. (Bachelor of Arts).

Graduate Degree

Many careers require specialized training and education beyond a bachelor’s degree. Students attend graduate or professional school to receive this training and earn a graduate or advanced degree. This type of credential student is to continue in a specific field of study for typically an additional two years. The two most common are Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Doctoral And Professional Degree

These credentials are the highest levels of education one can attain. A doctorate or doctoral degree is a research-oriented degree focused on scholarly development. The most common is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Despite the name, a PhD covers many disciplines, not just philosophy. A professional degree is application-oriented, such as a Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) in medicine, Juris Doctor (JD), or Doctor of Juridical Science (SJD) in Law.