Is a Master's Degree Higher Than a Bachelor's Degree?

Thinking about pursuing higher education? Perhaps you're curious about the different types of degrees you could get. Specifically, you're wondering whether to pursue a bachelor's degree or a master's degree.

Bachelor's degrees are a lower level of degree than master's programs. Students just starting college after high school typically pursue bachelor's degrees. On the other hand, students already holding a bachelor's degree are eligible to pursue a master's degree.

Which Is Higher in Education: A Bachelor's or a Master's Degree?

There are two main classes of degree: undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees. Bachelor's programs are a type of undergraduate degree, while master's programs are a type of graduate degree.

Graduate degrees are higher than undergraduate degrees, so master's programs are higher than bachelor's programs. They are more advanced degrees that provide more in-depth information regarding particular subjects.

Depending on your field of study and career goals, it may be recommended that you pursue a master's degree after completing your bachelor's degree. This can lead to a wider range of career opportunities, helping you pursue advancements and pay increases.

What Are the Four Types of College Degrees?

Bachelor's and master's degrees are only two types of college degrees. There are four levels altogether: associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral. Let's take a closer look at each one:

Associate

Associate degrees are the lowest level of college degree. They provide technical training for certain careers or general education courses that can transfer into bachelor's degree programs. Most associate degrees consist of about 60 credits and take about two years to complete.

Bachelor's

Bachelor's degrees are required for a wide variety of careers. They typically consist of a wide range of courses, including technical training and internship opportunities. They typically take four years to complete and consist of at least 120 credits.

Master's

Master's degrees are optional for any student holding a bachelor's degree. They may be required for some career paths, particularly those involving leadership or management roles. Depending on your chosen field, master's degrees can range from 30 to 60 credits and typically take one to three years to finish.

Doctoral

Doctoral degrees, also known as postgraduate programs, are the highest level of degree you can pursue. These degrees are typically research-intensive and are a good choice for those hoping to become college professors, researchers, or top-level executives in any field. They commonly take anywhere from four to seven years to complete and vary widely in terms of credit requirements.

What Is a Bachelor's Degree?

A bachelor's degree, as noted, is a type of undergraduate degree. You need to have a high school diploma or equivalent to pursue a bachelor's degree.

Common types of bachelor's degrees include Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Bachelor's degrees offer many specializations ranging from English and humanities to healthcare and technology.

Depending on your area of study, you may be able to apply work experience credits toward your degree program. This can save you time and money in the long run.

What Is a Master's Degree?

A master's degree is a graduate-level degree that provides advanced education that can make you a better job candidate and increase your earning potential. You need to have a bachelor's degree to pursue a master's degree.

Types of master's degrees include Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Students may choose to pursue a master's degree in the same field as their bachelor's degree, or they may choose a different field.

How Long Does a Master's Degree Take?

A master's degree typically takes anywhere from one to three years to complete. Students studying part-time may take longer, while those taking a heavier course load and transferring more credits may finish sooner.

How Long Does a Bachelor's Degree Take?

Bachelor's degrees are also called four-year degrees because they usually take about four years to complete. However, this will depend on your field of study, your course load, and whether you study full time or part time.

Typical Coursework for Bachelor's Degree Programs

Bachelor's degrees consist of the following types of courses:

• general education courses
• core courses
• electives

Specific courses required for the degree will vary widely depending on the major you choose.

Typical Coursework for Master's Degree Programs

Master's degree programs typically consist of specialized coursework in a specific field, though some general courses may be required depending on the program.

Again, exact courses will vary depending on your major.

Should I Pursue My Master's Degree After My Bachelor Program?

Getting a master's degree is always a good option to consider. It will cost extra time and money, but it can help you pursue a wider variety of high-paying jobs and will almost always make you a more desirable job candidate.