Bachelor's Degree (Undergraduate):
* Purpose: Provides a foundational education in a chosen field of study. It equips students with a broad understanding of core concepts and principles. It's often the first degree someone earns after high school.
* Duration: Typically takes 3-4 years of full-time study.
* Depth of Study: Offers a general overview of a subject area. It focuses on developing fundamental knowledge and skills.
* Career Implications: Provides entry-level qualifications for many professions. Some jobs require a Bachelor's degree as a minimum requirement.
* Research: Usually involves limited independent research, perhaps a small capstone project or thesis in some programs.
Master's Degree (Graduate):
* Purpose: Builds upon the foundation of a Bachelor's degree. It provides specialized knowledge and advanced skills within a specific area of study. It's designed for those who want to further their expertise or pursue a career requiring advanced knowledge.
* Duration: Typically takes 1-2 years of full-time study (can vary depending on the program and the amount of prior coursework).
* Depth of Study: Offers in-depth knowledge and specialized skills in a chosen field. It delves deeper into specific topics than a Bachelor's degree.
* Career Implications: Often leads to more advanced roles, higher salaries, and greater career opportunities. Some professions require a Master's degree.
* Research: Often involves significant independent research, culminating in a thesis or substantial research project.
In short: A Bachelor's degree is a foundation, while a Master's degree is specialized, advanced learning built on that foundation. You generally need a Bachelor's degree to be eligible for a Master's degree program.