[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke”] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Key Takeaways[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”check” marker-color=”secondary”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]College degrees are divided into four main levels: associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with each level preparing students for different career paths and offering varying earning potentials.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate programs typically last two years and prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce, while bachelor’s programs require around four years and open up additional career opportunities.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s curriculum focuses on specialized skills and typically takes two years beyond a bachelor’s, while a doctorate — the highest level of education — requires 4-6 years of postbaccalaureate coursework and extensive original research.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-flex] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Considering a college degree? First, you’ll need to understand the types of degrees and college degree levels.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Different degrees set you up for different career paths. For example, you can’t become a psychologist with just a bachelor’s degree — you’d need a master’s or doctorate in psychology. And you usually can’t become an engineer without at least a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typically, as your university degree level rises, your earning potential increases and the unemployment rate decreases. That’s one more reason it’s important to understand the different types of degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Types of Degrees Are There in College?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are many types of [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/”]degrees you can earn[/hen-ui-link] in college. College degree levels can be broken down into two categories: undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Here are the college degrees in order from lowest ranking to highest:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate degree (undergraduate)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor’s degree (undergraduate)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master’s degree (graduate)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctoral degree (graduate)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While a doctorate is the highest education level, some fields may stop at a master’s. The phrase “terminal degree” refers to the highest degree in a field. Before we discuss each degree level in greater detail, we’ll start by providing a brief explanation of each type of college degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is an Associate Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree is a two-year undergraduate program that gives you foundational knowledge and skills in a specific field. While these degrees offer fewer opportunities than bachelor’s degrees, they can qualify you for some entry-level positions, particularly in healthcare. Many people choose to earn their associate at a community college.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is a Bachelor’s Degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s degree is a four-year undergraduate degree offered by colleges and universities. You’ll complete general education courses along with classes [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/how-to-choose-your-major/”]in your chosen major[/hen-ui-link]. You can also add a minor, which is a secondary area of study. Bachelor’s degrees are widely seen as essential for many professional careers.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is a Master’s Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s degree is a graduate-level credential that typically takes two years to finish, though programs can range from 1-3 years, depending on your pace of study. These advanced degrees help you build specialized knowledge and skills in a specific field, often leading to higher-paying positions, leadership roles, or further study at the doctoral level.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is a Doctorate Degree?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctorate, also known as a Ph.D., is the highest academic degree you can obtain. Depending on the program and your pace of study, these degrees can take anywhere from 2-8 years of rigorous study and original research. A doctorate will prepare you for high-level roles in academia and research or in professional fields like law or medicine.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Associate Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Program Length: 1-2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Number of Credits: 60[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/”]associate degree programs[/hen-ui-link] prepare you to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation. These programs can be found at technical and [hen-ui-link href=”/magazine/pros-cons-community-college/”]community colleges[/hen-ui-link] and typically last 1-2 years.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree can also serve as the foundation for a bachelor’s program. You may even be able to [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/transfer-credits-online-colleges/”]transfer some of the credits[/hen-ui-link] you earned for your associate degree toward a four-year degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some associate degrees require you to complete an internship or practicum in addition to taking classes. This is particularly common among healthcare and tech degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/applying-to-college/how-to-apply-for-college/”]apply for an associate degree program[/hen-ui-link], you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent, like a GED certificate. Some schools may require you to submit standardized test scores, such as ACT or SAT scores, as well.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Featured Associate Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Can You Do With an Associate Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree prepares you for vocational, allied health, and support roles. For example, you can become a medical assistant, paralegal, or vet tech with an associate degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/highest-paying/associate-degree-jobs/”]highest-paying careers with an associate[/hen-ui-link] degree pay over $80,000 per year. See the table below for popular jobs that require associate degrees and their salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Popular Associate Degree Jobs[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Dental Hygienist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dental-hygienists.htm” target=”_blank”]$94,260[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]9%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Diagnostic Medical Sonographer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm” target=”_blank”]$82,570[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Web Developer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]$95,380[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Computer Network Support Specialist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]$61,550[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Respiratory Therapist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/respiratory-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$80,450[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]13%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Occupational Therapy Assistant[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapy-assistants-and-aides.htm” target=”_blank”]$66,050[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]21%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Physical Therapist Assistant[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapist-assistants-and-aides.htm” target=”_blank”]$60,050[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]19%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Paralegal[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm” target=”_blank”]$61,010[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]1%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Health Information Technologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/health-information-technologists-and-medical-registrars.htm” target=”_blank”]$67,310[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]16%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Veterinary Technician[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-technologists-and-technicians.htm” target=”_blank”]$45,980[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]19%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ style=”text-align:right” class=”text-sm”]Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Associate Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Colleges can offer three kinds of associate degrees:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate of Arts (AA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate of Science (AS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate of Applied Science (AAS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Arts, humanities, and creative fields typically offer an AA, whereas social sciences and natural sciences often award an AS. Many applied and vocational programs offer an AAS degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The type of degree matters if you’re planning to transfer into a bachelor’s program. Colleges normally offer fewer transfer credits for an AAS degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Popular Associate Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-accounting/”]Accounting[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-business-administration/”]Business Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-management/”]Business Management[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-computer-science/”]Computer Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-criminal-justice/”]Criminal Justice[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Cybersecurity[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-early-childhood-education/”]Early Childhood Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-education/”]Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graphic Design[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare Management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-information-technology/”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-marketing/”]Marketing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-medical-assisting/”]Medical Assisting[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-medical-billing-and-coding/”]Medical Billing and Coding[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-pre-nursing/”]Pre-Nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Psychology[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-social-work/”]Social Work[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Bachelor’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Program Length: 4 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Number of Credits: 120[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/”]bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-link] program prepares you for many career paths. You’ll generally spend four years earning a bachelor’s degree at a college or university. You’ll take general education classes, electives, and upper-level courses in your major, providing you with a well-rounded academic foundation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some colleges offer[hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/accelerated/”]accelerated bachelor’s programs[/hen-ui-link], which take less time — often 2-3 years. [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/online-degree-completion-programs/”]Degree-completion programs[/hen-ui-link]can also speed up the timeline by awarding you credit for previous college coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can earn your bachelor’s [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/”]degree online[/hen-ui-link] as well. An online degree from an [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]accredited college[/hen-ui-link] meets the same standards as an in-person degree. You’ll need a high school diploma for admission and may also need to submit SAT or ACT scores.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Featured Bachelor’s Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In diverse industries like business, tech, and education, a bachelor’s degree can prepare you for many entry-level careers. Some of the [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/highest-paying/bachelor-degrees/”]highest-paying jobs with a bachelor’s degree[/hen-ui-link] include roles in finance, management, and tech.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduates with a four-year degree can also benefit from the[hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/in-demand-jobs-requiring-undergraduate-degree/”]high demand[/hen-ui-link]of many well-earning fields, like software development and engineering. See the table below for roles you can apply for with a bachelor’s degree and their salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Popular Bachelor’s Degree Jobs[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Software Developer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]$133,080[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]17%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Mechanical Engineer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm” target=”_blank”]$102,320[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Microbiologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm” target=”_blank”]$87,330[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Technical Writer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/technical-writers.htm” target=”_blank”]$91,670[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Registered Nurse[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm” target=”_blank”]$93,600[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Human Resources Specialist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/human-resources-specialists.htm” target=”_blank”]$72,910[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Special Education Teacher[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm” target=”_blank”]$64,270[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]0%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Graphic Designer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm” target=”_blank”]$61,300[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]2%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Social Worker[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm” target=”_blank”]$61,330[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Substance Use, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselor[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm” target=”_blank”]$59,190[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]19%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ style=”text-align:right” class=”text-sm”]Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Bachelor’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There are many types of bachelor’s degrees you can earn, depending on what your major is and what your school offers. Some of the most common types of bachelor’s degrees you’ll see include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Arts (BA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Science (BS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The two most popular degrees are a BA and a BS. These degrees cover all arts and sciences majors and some education and engineering degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Popular Bachelor’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-business-administration/”]Business Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-business-management/”]Business Management[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-civil-engineering/”]Civil Engineering[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/affordable/online-bachelors-communications/”]Communication[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-programming/”]Computer Programming[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]Computer Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-counseling/”]Counseling[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-criminal-justice/”]Criminal Justice[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-education/”]Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/affordable/online-bachelors-english/”]English[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-film/”]Film[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-finance/”]Finance[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-graphic-design/”]Graphic Design[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Health Informatics[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Health Sciences[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-history/”]History[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-human-resources/”]Human Resources[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-information-technology/”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-marketing/”]Marketing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-mathematics/”]Mathematics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-nursing/”]Nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-organizational-psychology/”]Organizational Psychology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-political-science/”]Political Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Public Policy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/affordable/online-bachelors-social-work/”]Social Work[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-supply-chain-logistics/”]Supply Chain and Logistics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Master’s Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Program Length: 1-3 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Number of Credits: 30[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/”]master’s degree[/hen-ui-link] can help you gain specialized skills and qualify for higher-paying roles. As a graduate student, you’ll work closely with experts in your field to explore advanced topics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While a master’s degree typically takes two years, some universities offer accelerated one-year master’s programs. You can also enroll in a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/accelerated/bachelors-to-masters/”]bachelor’s-to-master’s program[/hen-ui-link] to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in less time.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most master’s programs require students to complete a minimum of 30 credits. Admission and graduation requirements vary depending on the program. For example, many arts and sciences master’s programs require [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/test-prep/best-gre-prep-resources-services/”]GRE scores[/hen-ui-link], while business programs typically require GMAT scores.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Featured Master’s Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With a master’s degree, you can qualify for management-level careers and specialized roles in a field like healthcare, research, and social services. The [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/highest-paying/highest-paying-careers-masters-degree/”]highest-paying master’s degrees[/hen-ui-link] include MBAs and nurse practitioner degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learn more about the earning potential and demand for popular master’s degree jobs below.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Popular Master’s Degree Jobs[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Physician Assistant[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physician-assistants.htm” target=”_blank”]$133,260[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]28%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Nurse Practitioner[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm#tab-5″ target=”_blank”]$129,210[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]40%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Political Scientist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/political-scientists.htm” target=”_blank”]$139,380[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]3%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Industrial-Organizational Psychologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm” target=”_blank”]$94,310[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Marriage and Family Therapist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$63,780[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]16%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Occupational Therapist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$98,340[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Economist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/economists.htm” target=”_blank”]$115,730[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Speech-Language Pathologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/speech-language-pathologists.htm” target=”_blank”]$95,410[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]18%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Statistician[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/mathematicians-and-statisticians.htm” target=”_blank”]$103,30[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]12%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Historian[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/historians.htm” target=”_blank”]$74,050[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ style=”text-align:right” class=”text-sm”]Source: BLS[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Here are some of the most common types of master’s degrees you can earn:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Arts (MA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Science (MS)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Business Administration (MBA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Education (M.Ed.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Fine Arts (MFA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Laws (LL.M.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Public Administration (MPA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Public Health (MPH)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Public Policy (MPP)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master of Social Work (MSW)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MA and an MS are among the most popular master’s degrees. Humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences fields typically award an MA or an MS. Other popular options include an MBA and an M.Ed.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Popular Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]Business Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Communication[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/”]Computer Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-counseling/”]Counseling[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-creative-writing/”]Creative Writing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Criminal Justice[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-data-science/”]Data Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-economics/”]Economics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-education/”]Education[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Engineering[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-finance/”]Finance[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-healthcare-administration/”]Healthcare Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-healthcare-informatics/”]Health Informatics[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]History[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-human-resources/”]Human Resources[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-information-technology/”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-library-information-science/”]Library and Information Science[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-marketing/”]Marketing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Network Security[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-nurse-practitioner/”]Nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Political Science[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-psychology/”]Psychology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-health/”]Public Health[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-public-policy/”]Public Policy[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-masters-social-work/”]Social Work[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-supply-chain/”]Supply Chain Management[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Teaching[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Doctoral Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Program Length: 2-10 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typical Number of Credits: Varies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In many fields, a doctorate is the terminal degree. There are a few different types of [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/doctorate/”]doctoral degrees[/hen-ui-link] you can earn.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Professional doctorates train you for a professional career. For example, law school and med school are two common professional paths. A Ph.D., on the other hand — the most common type of doctorate — emphasizes theory and research.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In a doctoral program, you’ll take graduate-level seminars and courses, take comprehensive exams, conduct original research, and defend a dissertation in front of a faculty committee.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most applied doctorates take 3-5 years to earn, while a Ph.D. typically requires 4-6 years of study, if not more. In certain fields, you can earn your doctorate online.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some doctoral programs require a master’s degree for admission, whereas others admit applicants with just a bachelor’s degree. You may need to submit standardized test scores depending on the program.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Featured Doctoral Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What Can You Do With a Doctorate?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you want to become a physician,[hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guides/online-teaching-jobs/”]professor[/hen-ui-link], or lawyer, you’ll need a doctorate. In many fields, a doctorate translates into higher salaries. Lawyers, [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/pharmacy-degree/”]pharmacists[/hen-ui-link], and physicists all report median salaries of over $125,000 per year, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The following table shows the earning potential and demand for popular doctoral degree jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Popular Doctoral Degree Jobs[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Physician or Surgeon[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm” target=”_blank”]>$239,200[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]4%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Dentist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/dentists.htm” target=”_blank”]$179,210[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Physicist or Astronomer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm” target=”_blank”]$166,290[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Pharmacist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/pharmacists.htm” target=”_blank”]$137,480[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Lawyer[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/lawyers.htm” target=”_blank”]$151,160[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]5%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Veterinarian[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinarians.htm” target=”_blank”]$125,510[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]19%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Physical Therapist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm” target=”_blank”]$101,020[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]14%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Psychologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm” target=”_blank”]$94,310[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]7%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Postsecondary Teacher[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm” target=”_blank”]$83,980[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job”]Audiologist[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/audiologists.htm” target=”_blank”]$92,120[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Job Growth Rate (2023-2033)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ style=”text-align:right” class=”text-sm”]Source: BLS[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Doctoral Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctorate is the highest education level, but there are still several types of doctoral degrees. Here are some of the most common ones you can get:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Medicine (MD)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Juris Doctor (JD)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A Ph.D. is the most popular doctorate. You can earn a Ph.D. in many arts and sciences fields. Other doctorates take their names from the career path associated with the degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Popular Doctoral Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Business Administration[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Criminal Justice[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Curriculum and Instruction[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Education[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educational Administration[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educational Leadership[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Finance[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Human Resources[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Human Services[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Information Technology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Legal Studies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Marketing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Nursing[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/doctorate/best-online-doctorate-organizational-leadership/”]Organizational Leadership[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/doctorate/best-online-doctorate-psychology/”]Psychology[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/doctorate/”]Public Administration[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Public Health[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Public Policy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Social Work[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Which Degree Level Is Right for Me?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The right degree level for you depends on your specific career goals, interests, and circumstances. For some careers, an associate’s or bachelor’s degree is enough. For more specialized career paths, you’ll need a master’s or doctorate.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You should also think about what’s practical for you right now. Look at each degree’s time, cost, and commitment and decide if it’s worth the investment. Choosing a degree that aligns with your career path while being realistically achievable is key. It’s also completely reasonable to want to earn a degree that will pay off. Below, we’ll take a look at each degree level’s average salary and cost.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Average Salary by Degree Level​[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Let’s face it, college is expensive. It’s a huge investment, and it’s completely fair to want a degree that offers a strong return. Naturally, you might be wondering what kind of earnings you can expect based on the degree level you choose.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While every career path has a specific earning potential, we can still broadly look at the salary range by degree level. The table below shows median weekly earnings by degree level.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Average Total Tuition Cost by Degree Level[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Knowing the average cost of each degree level can help you decide which option is realistic to pursue and worth the investment. Tuition and fees can vary widely depending on the program, but understanding the typical cost provides a helpful frame of reference. Here’s a breakdown of average total costs by degree level:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About College Degree Levels[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What are the four types of college degrees?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The four types of college degrees are associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees. Colleges classify associate and bachelor’s degrees as undergraduate degrees and master’s and doctoral degrees as graduate degrees.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Within those categories, you can earn many types of degrees. For instance, at the bachelor’s level, you could earn a BA, BS, or BFA degree, to name a few.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is a four-year college degree called?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A four-year college degree is called a bachelor’s degree. Another term for this degree type is a baccalaureate degree.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many careers require a bachelor’s degree for entry-level roles. For example, most careers in business call for you to hold a bachelor’s degree. Many roles in tech, education, the public sector, and engineering also require you to have a four-year degree.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some career paths require a specific major. For example, in many states you’ll need a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to become a registered nurse. In other fields, your specific major matters less than the quality of your skills.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the highest degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The highest degree is a doctorate, also called a doctoral degree. In terms of university degree levels, both master’s and bachelor’s degrees rank below doctorates.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can earn a doctorate in a wide array of fields, including the social sciences, business, the humanities, education, engineering, and healthcare.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In some fields, however, a master’s degree represents the terminal — or highest — degree. For instance, a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-creative-writing/”]master of fine arts[/hen-ui-link] (MFA) is the terminal degree for creative writing.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the hardest college degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most would agree that the hardest college degree is a doctorate. As the highest education level, a doctorate requires significant expertise in the field.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many Ph.D. programs take six years or more and require you to write a book-length dissertation based on original research.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Because a doctorate represents the top of the university degree levels, it’s a relatively uncommon degree. Only around 2% of U.S. adults held a doctorate in 2022, according to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2022/demo/educational-attainment/cps-detailed-tables.html” target=”_blank”]U.S. Census Bureau[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the quickest degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/how-to-get-a-bachelors-quickly/”]fastest degree[/hen-ui-link] you can get is either a one-year associate degree or a one-year master’s degree. While other types of degrees typically take a minimum of two years, you can earn a [hen-ui-link href=”https://thebestschools.org/rankings/masters/best-online-dual-masters/”]master’s degree in one year[/hen-ui-link] with an accelerated or fast-track program.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can sometimes add a master’s degree to your bachelor’s through a 4+1 program, also known as a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/accelerated/bachelors-to-masters/”]bachelor’s-to-master’s program[/hen-ui-link]. In this case, some of your coursework counts toward both your undergraduate and graduate degrees, meaning you’ll spend the usual four years on a bachelor’s degree plus one additional year in college to leave with a master’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]