By Saurabh Goel

The career potential of any professional depends much on the degree they pursue. It is not only the university alone that matters, but also the degree’s global acceptance and the scope of the job.

This is why professional persons should be aware of the variety of degrees offered in the course curriculum. Before embarking on an educational program, students should know the degree they get from colleges and universities based in the USA.

Undergraduate

Undergraduate studies in the United States encompass two primary degree types:

Bachelor’s degree

A Bachelor’s degree is a foundational component of higher education in the U.S., typically extending over four years. These years are often designated as freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior years.
The structure is designed to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for both entry-level positions in various fields.

This degree is pursued directly after completing high school and is required for advanced studies in a range of disciplines.

Duration: 4 years
Program Structure: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior
Purpose: Preparation for professional roles and advanced education
Fields of Study: Broad, including arts, sciences, business, and more

Associate degree

Associate degrees serve as an introductory level higher education option, typically completed in two years. These degrees are particularly focused on equipping students with practical skills and foundational knowledge necessary for immediate employment in various professional sectors such as nursing, programming, and design.

Duration: 2 years
Focus: Vocational training and foundational academic education
Common Degrees: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS).
Fields of Study: Technical and paraprofessional roles

Postgraduate

A Master’s degree represents an advanced academic pursuit allowing graduates to specialise further in their chosen field of study. Only undergraduate degree holders can opt for a master’s degree. This degree typically follows the completion of an undergraduate degree and offers a deeper, more rigorous exploration of a specific discipline.

Students choose to pursue a Master’s degree to enhance their expertise, increase job opportunities, or prepare for doctoral studies.

Duration: 1 to 2 years
Program Structure: Structured around core courses, electives, and a capstone project or thesis.
Purpose: Provide advanced knowledge and skills and prepares students for further academic research.
Fields of Study: Business Administration, Engineering, Public Health, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, etc.

Doctorate

A doctorate, or doctoral degree, represents the pinnacle of academic achievement in many fields. It is the highest level of degree one can earn, signifying deep expertise and a substantial contribution to one’s field of study. Only postgraduate degree holders can opt for a doctorate degree.

Individuals who earn a doctorate are recognised as experts and often pursue careers in academia, research, or high-level professional practice.

Duration: 2 to 6 years
Program Structure: Advanced coursework, comprehensive exams, teaching responsibilities, internships, and a dissertation or thesis that contributes new knowledge or theories to the field.
Purpose: Develop an individual’s expertise to the highest academic level, preparing them for specialised, scholarly, or professional positions.
Fields of Study: Every academic and professional discipline, including Physics, Literature, Engineering, Psychology, and Education.

Professional Degrees

Professional degrees are specialised programs designed to prepare students for specific careers by providing the necessary skills and credentials required to enter various regulated professions.

Unlike traditional academic degrees, professional degrees focus more on practical training and are often mandatory for licensing or certification in fields such as healthcare, law, and education.

Duration: 3 to 4 years after undergraduate studies.

Program Structure: These programs combine rigorous coursework with hands-on training.
Purpose: Equip students with the specialised knowledge and skills needed to meet the professional standards and legal requirements of specific careers.

Fields of Study: Juris Doctor (JD), Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Master of Education (MEd), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), etc.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of degrees offered in the United States is essential for students planning their career journeys. Each type of degree—be it a bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, or professional degree—has its distinct role and serves various career goals.

As the employment landscape keeps evolving, staying updated on these options will empower students to make informed decisions that shape their future.

(Author is CEO & Co-Founder, Amber)