What are the levels of college degrees?

Associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Professional degrees (e.g., JD, MD) are licensure-track credentials for specific fields.

How long does an associate degree take?

Typically about two years of full-time study and around 60 semester credits.

How many credits are in a bachelor’s degree?

Most U.S. bachelor’s programs require about 120 semester credits, usually completed in four years.

How long is a master’s degree?

Commonly one to three years, with roughly 30–60 credits depending on the program.

What is a doctoral degree?

The highest academic degree, often combining advanced coursework with original research leading to a dissertation (or an advanced practice project). Timelines vary by field.

College Degree Levels (U.S.)

Overview of associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional degrees—definitions, common titles, typical length/credits, example jobs, and .edu sources.

Associate Degree (≈2 years; ~60 semester credits)

Definition: Two-year undergraduate degree offering general education and/or applied career preparation.

Popular titles: AA, AS, AAS

Example jobs: Dental hygienist, radiologic technologist, paralegal, network support specialist

Sources: University of Washington · Portland Community College

Bachelor’s Degree (≈4 years; ~120 semester credits)

Definition: Four-year undergraduate degree combining general education and a major field of study.

Popular titles: BA, BS, BFA, BBA, BSN

Example jobs: K–12 teacher* , accountant, software developer, civil/mechanical engineer, RN (BSN)

Sources: Arizona State University · University of Maryland Global Campus

Master’s Degree (≈1–3 years; ~30–60 credits)

Definition: Graduate degree focused on advanced specialization via coursework and/or thesis/project.

Popular titles: MA, MS, MEd, MBA, MPH, MSW, MPA, MEng

Example jobs: Speech-language pathologist, school counselor/assistant principal, data scientist (often preferred), epidemiologist

Sources: Northeastern University · Ohio State University

Doctoral Degree (≈4–7+ years; field-dependent)

Definition: Highest academic degree; advanced coursework plus original research (dissertation) or advanced practice project.

Popular titles: PhD, EdD, PsyD, DNP

Example jobs: University professor/researcher, superintendent, clinical psychologist, advanced nursing leadership

Source: University of Illinois College of Education

Professional Degrees (Licensure-Track; length varies by field)

Definition: Graduate/professional credentials that prepare graduates for licensed practice in specific fields.

Popular titles: JD, MD/DO, PharmD, DDS/DMD, DPT, DVM, PA (master’s)

Typical lengths (examples): JD ≈3 yrs; MD 4 yrs + residency; DPT ≈3 yrs; PharmD ≈4 yrs

Example jobs: Attorney, physician, pharmacist, dentist, physical therapist, veterinarian, physician assistant

Sources: Harvard Law School (JD) · Stanford Medicine (MD) · UCSF (PharmD) · USC (DPT)

*Most states require a bachelor’s plus an approved teacher-prep program and state licensure for K–12 teaching.

College Degree Levels (U.S.)

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