* Pre-professional degree: This is an undergraduate degree (typically a Bachelor's) designed to prepare students for *entry* into a professional school or program. It provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a graduate-level professional program. Examples include:
* A Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in biology before applying to medical school.
* A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in music before applying to a conservatory for a master's degree in music performance.
* A Bachelor of Science (BS) in engineering before applying to a Master's or Ph.D. program in engineering.
The pre-professional degree itself doesn't qualify someone for professional practice; it's a stepping stone.
* Post-professional degree: This is a graduate-level degree (Master's, Doctorate, etc.) obtained *after* completing the initial professional education and licensure requirements for a profession. It's designed for those already working in the field to advance their skills, expertise, or leadership abilities. Examples include:
* A Master of Business Administration (MBA) earned after working as a manager for several years.
* A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) earned after already being a Registered Nurse (RN).
* A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) earned after having a career as a practicing artist.
The post-professional degree builds upon the existing professional education and experience. It's designed for career advancement and specialization *within* a profession, not to initially qualify someone for it.
In short: A pre-professional degree gets you *into* a profession; a post-professional degree advances you *within* a profession.