Planning for college is a journey filled with choices. One of the first questions families often face is: what kind of degree does my student need?
Understanding the different levels of college degree is essential to making smart decisions about time, money, and future goals. Whether you’re just starting out or considering graduate education, each level of degree carries unique advantages, commitments, and opportunities.
In this guide, we break down the major types of college degrees, how they differ, and how to choose the right one for your student’s academic and career path.
What Does “Levels of College Degree” Mean?
When people talk about the “levels of college degree,” they’re referring to the academic hierarchy of degrees awarded by colleges and universities. These levels include:
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctoral or professional degrees
Each degree builds on the one before it, with increasing depth of study, time commitment, and specialization. Choosing the right level is about more than academics—it can determine your job options, income potential, and how much you spend on education.
The Four Main Levels of College Degree
1. Associate Degree
Typical duration: 2 years
Where it’s offered: Community colleges, some 4-year institutions
Common types: Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
An associate degree is an undergraduate program that typically takes two years to complete. It often serves as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree or leads directly to employment in fields like healthcare, IT, or skilled trades.
Pros:
- Lower cost than four-year colleges
- Shorter time to workforce
- Transferable to many bachelor’s programs
Cons:
- May limit long-term career growth
- Some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree holders earn significantly more on average than those with only a high school diploma.
2. Bachelor’s Degree
Typical duration: 4 years full-time (longer if part-time)
Common types: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS)
The bachelor’s degree is the most common undergraduate credential. It includes general education courses, a major area of study, and often electives or minors. This degree is often required for entry-level roles in business, education, science, and the arts.
Pros:
- Opens the door to most professional careers
- Required for graduate studies
- More robust alumni and career networks
Cons:
- Higher cost and time commitment
- Can require relocation or full-time study
3. Master’s Degree
Typical duration: 1.5 to 2 years
Common types: Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS), Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (M.Ed.)
A master’s degree is a graduate-level program that allows students to specialize in a particular field. Many professionals pursue a master’s to advance in their careers or to switch to a new industry.
Pros:
- Higher earning potential
- Specialization in a chosen field
- Often required for leadership roles or teaching at the college level
Cons:
- Requires completion of a bachelor’s degree
- Graduate school costs can add significant debt
Use the FAFSA to explore federal aid eligibility for graduate students.
4. Doctoral or Professional Degree
Typical duration: 3 to 7 years
Common types: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Juris Doctor (JD), Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Education (EdD)
These terminal degrees are the highest level of academic achievement. A PhD typically leads to careers in research or academia, while professional degrees like JD and MD are required for licensed professions in law and medicine.
Pros:
- Top-tier earning potential
- Required for academic and high-level professional fields
Cons:
- Highly competitive admissions
- Long time-to-degree and high cost
- Intense workload and research obligations
Other Credentials That Aren’t Degree Levels (But Still Matter)
While not technically degree levels, these credentials can enhance a student’s education or job prospects. They are often more flexible, faster to complete, and less expensive than traditional degrees, making them appealing to working adults, career changers, and those looking to upskill quickly.
- Certificates and diplomas: These are typically short-term programs offered by community colleges, technical schools, and some four-year institutions. They focus on specific job-ready skills in areas such as healthcare (e.g., medical assistant, phlebotomy), technology (e.g., coding bootcamps, network administration), or trades (e.g., HVAC, welding). They usually take a few months to a year to complete and may lead directly to employment or licensure in that field.
- Post-baccalaureate certificates: These are advanced study programs for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. They are commonly used to strengthen a student’s academic record before applying to graduate or professional schools, or to earn credentials in a new field without pursuing a second degree. For example, someone with a BA in English might pursue a post-bac certificate in accounting or data science to shift careers.
- Microcredentials and badges: Often delivered online by accredited institutions or platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning, microcredentials focus on narrowly defined skill sets such as digital marketing, project management, or data analytics. They are stackable and often industry-recognized, offering a way to demonstrate specific competencies without a formal degree. These are especially popular in tech and business fields where rapidly evolving skills are in demand.
These alternatives can complement a college degree or serve as standalone qualifications depending on a student’s goals. However, they typically do not replace the long-term benefits of a full degree when it comes to career advancement or salary potential.
How to Choose the Right Degree Level
Choosing the right degree level depends on a variety of personal and professional factors. Here are key considerations:
1. Career Goals
- What degree is the standard for your field?
- Do you need a license or certification that requires a specific degree level?
2. Return on Investment
- Compare expected salary vs. cost of education
- Consider financial aid, scholarships, and grants
3. Time Commitment
- Are you ready to commit 2, 4, or more years to study?
- Do you plan to study part-time while working?
4. Educational Readiness
- Are you prepared for the academic rigor of graduate school?
- Do you need to strengthen your transcript before applying?
Decision-Making Checklist
Choosing a degree level involves balancing several factors. This chart summarizes key differences between the major types of degrees to help you quickly compare your options. Use it as a reference point while considering your academic goals, budget, and career aspirations.
| Factor | Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s | Doctoral |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Time to complete | 2 yrs | 4 yrs | 1.5-2 yrs | 3-7 yrs |
| Typical cost | Low | Moderate | High | Very High |
| Career access | Entry | Entry/Mid | Mid/Senior | Expert |
| Grad school required? | No | For grad | No/Yes | N/A |
| Flexibility (online) | High | High | Moderate | Low |
Choosing the Right Degree Path for You
Understanding the levels of college degree helps families navigate one of the most important decisions in the education journey. Each degree level offers unique opportunities and trade-offs. The right choice will depend on your student’s goals, finances, interests, and long-term plans.
At CBRG, we specialize in helping families make these decisions confidently. If you’re unsure which degree path is best, or how to finance it without stress, contact us to schedule a one-on-one consultation.