An undergraduate degree is an academic credential earned by a student who has completed a program of study at a college or university after finishing high school. It represents the first level of higher education and typically includes two main types: associate degrees and bachelor's degrees.
- An associate degree usually takes about two years to complete and can either lead directly to entry-level jobs or serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree.
- A bachelor's degree generally requires about three to four years of full-time study and involves both general education courses and specialized courses in a chosen major. It is the most common undergraduate degree and serves as a foundation for many careers or further graduate study
Undergraduate degrees are considered postsecondary education, meaning they are pursued after secondary education (high school). They provide a broad educational foundation and prepare students for professional work or advanced degrees such as master's or doctoral programs
. In summary, an undergraduate degree is the first academic degree a student earns after high school, encompassing associate and bachelor's degrees, and is essential for career preparation or graduate education.
