Most good jobs today require additional learning after you finish high school: a college education, hands-on training, or a combination. Your degree or certification is proof that you have completed the required courses.  

Which Degree Is for You?

Associate degree — earned after two years (or the equivalent) of full-time study (60-70 credits) at a community college, some technical or trade schools, and some four-year colleges. An associate degree may be for you if you:

• Want to move quickly into a career.
• Already are working full or part time.
• Plan on transferring to a four-year college or university in the future.
  

Bachelor’s degree — also called a baccalaureate degree, requiring 126-132 credits at a college or university. A bachelor of arts (B.A. or A.B.) degree is awarded when you have studied a wide range of subjects in addition to your major. A bachelor of science (B.S.) degree reflects a tighter focus on your major subject. A bachelor’s degree may be for you if you:

• Have four years, or its equivalent in class time, to devote to your college education.
• Want a solid education that will serve as a good foundation for whatever you choose to do in your career or in life.
• Are considering going on to earn an advanced or professional degree.

Master’s degree — an advanced degree, requiring 30-40 credits of study in a specific field after you have received your bachelor's degree. Many students pursue their master’s degrees while working full or part time. A master’s degree is a good choice if you:

• Can spend one to three additional years in school after you earn your bachelor’s degree.
• Want to pursue a specific subject in depth.
• Are considering a career in a field that requires or rewards a master’s degree, such as business management, education, or social work.

Doctorate or professional degree — the highest degree you can earn, a doctorate (also known as a Ph.D.) requires intensive advanced study in a specific program. Plan on earning your doctorate if you:

• Can spend three to five more years in school after you get your bachelor’s degree.
• Want to teach or do research at a college or university.
• Plan a career in medicine, law, or other field that requires a doctorate.