What does degree type mean refers to how educational institutions classify academic qualifications by level, duration, focus, and structure-such as associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees. This classification determines eligibility for jobs, advanced study, and professional licensing.
Universities assign degree types based on national standards and institutional frameworks. For example, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) emphasizes humanities and social sciences, while a Bachelor of Science (BS) focuses on math, engineering, or natural sciences. These distinctions affect course requirements, credit hours, and expected outcomes.
The term "degree type" does not refer to grades or GPA. Instead, it defines the category of credential earned. A degree type may also indicate whether the program is research-based (e.g., PhD) or professionally oriented (e.g., MBA).
Institutions use degree types to organize academic pathways. The U.S. Department of Education's Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes standardize fields of study, ensuring consistency across colleges and universities. For example, a degree in computer science falls under CIP code 11.0701, which specifies both the subject area and the appropriate degree type.
Each degree type corresponds to a specific amount of coursework and time commitment. An associate degree typically requires two years of full-time study and 60 credits. A bachelor's degree takes four years (120 credits), a master's degree adds another 30-60 credits beyond the bachelor's, and a doctorate may require five or more years of advanced research and dissertation work.
Some programs combine degree types. A dual-degree program might award both a BA and a BS in different disciplines simultaneously. Others offer integrated degrees, such as a combined bachelor's and master's program completed in five years rather than six.
Below is a breakdown of major degree types by level and purpose:
| Level | Type | Duration | Typical Credits | Common Fields |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Associate | 2 years | 60 | Healthcare, IT, trades |
| Undergraduate | Bachelor's (BA/BS) | 4 years | 120 | Business, engineering, psychology |
| Graduate | Master's (MA/MS/MBA) | 1-3 years | 30-60 | Education, public policy, finance |
| Graduate | Doctoral (PhD, EdD) | 4-7 years | 60+ | Research, academia, clinical practice |
Not all degrees are created equal. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a professional degree focused on leadership and management, while a Master of Science (MS) in data analytics emphasizes technical skills and statistical modeling. The type determines the curriculum, faculty expectations, and career trajectory.
Some degree types are region-specific. In the UK, a Bachelor of Science (BSc) is awarded for scientific subjects, while a Bachelor of Arts (BA) covers liberal arts. In contrast, U.S. institutions often use the same degree name regardless of discipline-e.g., a BA in biology or philosophy.
Employers use degree type to screen applicants. A job posting requiring a "master's degree in cybersecurity" excludes candidates with only a bachelor's degree-even if they have relevant experience. Similarly, medical schools require a bachelor's degree with specific prerequisite courses, not just any degree.
Further education also depends on degree type. A student seeking admission to a PhD program must hold a master's degree in a related field. Some programs accept a bachelor's degree with strong performance, but most require formal graduate training.
A non-obvious distinction: degree type affects visa eligibility. International students on F-1 visas must enroll in a degree program recognized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Only certain degree types qualify for STEM OPT extensions, which allow work authorization in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
People often confuse degree type with grade level or academic performance. A student with a 3.8 GPA in a Bachelor of Science program still holds a BS degree-regardless of their grade point average. The degree type remains unchanged even if the student graduated with honors.
Another misconception is that all master's degrees are equivalent. A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in creative writing is not interchangeable with a Master of Public Health (MPH). The former prepares artists and writers for teaching or publication roles; the latter trains professionals for health policy and epidemiology careers.
I once reviewed a job application where the candidate listed "Bachelor's in Psychology" but had completed only 90 credits. The institution had not yet conferred the degree. The hiring manager rejected the application because the degree type was incomplete-proof that institutions verify credentials before accepting them.
While "what does degree type mean" focuses on classification, related terms differ in meaning. A diploma is a certificate of completion, not a degree. A certificate program may last less than a year and does not count toward a degree. A degree is formally awarded by an accredited institution after meeting all requirements.
Some programs offer "non-degree" options. For example, a university may offer a graduate certificate in project management without granting a master's degree. These are useful for skill-building but do not replace a degree type in employment or academic advancement.
Knowing what does degree type mean ensures accurate communication in applications, job searches, and academic advising. It clarifies expectations and prevents misunderstandings about qualifications.