Associate degrees are two-years programs that prepare students for careers or a bachelor's degree program. Associate degrees available include the Associate of Applied Science, Associate of Science, Associate of Arts and Associate of Occupational Studies. These degrees are commonly available in technical schools and community colleges. Graduates with an associate degree can typically find jobs in the automotive industry, heath services and information technology.
Four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs that prepare graduates for entry-level careers in numerous fields, along with an opportunity to pursue a graduate degree program. A Bachelor of Arts degree focuses on liberal arts and covers topics involving English, communications, the humanities and history. Students enrolled in a Bachelor of Science degree can choose programs in engineering, business and science. Pre-professional programs at the bachelor's degree level are available in medicine and law. Students pursuing careers in the visual and fine arts can enroll in Bachelor of Fine Arts programs.
Students pursuing advanced educational opportunities can enroll in a master's degree program. The curriculum in master's degree programs offers higher-level education and training. While common degree titles include Master of Science, Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts, students interested in business can also enroll in a Master of Business Administration program. To complete a master's degree program, students are often required to complete a thesis and present it in front of faculty members. A thesis is an original piece of work that presents a student's research in a specific area.
A doctoral degree is the terminal degree in many fields and prepares students for research and academic careers in colleges and universities. While some doctoral programs require students to complete a master's degree, others accept applicants with a bachelor's degree (but may require them to complete additional courses). The most common degree title is a Doctor of Philosophy, but other titles include Doctor of Education and Doctor of Medicine. Students often have opportunities to perform research or work as a teaching assistant while they complete the program.