Certificates & Diplomas
Certificates and Diplomas offer a variety of incentives to those seeking to quickly advance their career. Like degree programs, certificates and diplomas are earned by completing a number of courses in a specific field of study. However, the length of time it takes to complete a certificate or diploma program is shorter than an associate or higher degree program and the cost is less as well. The curriculum in a certificate or diploma program is specific and concentrated. Therefore, knowledge and skills acquired by certificate and diploma students will be practical and can be put to use upon employment. The entrance requirements for a certificate or diploma program are less demanding than a degree program and there are good opportunities to network with other individuals in that field.
Associate Degrees
An associate degree program is a 2-year degree program that prepares you for a chosen profession upon graduation or to continue your education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree increases your earnings potential and provides valuable career training. The courses in an associate degree program will include general education classes as well as classes in your chosen field. Community colleges, technical colleges, vocational colleges and even traditional colleges offer associate degree programs. There are two types of associate degrees: occupational and transfer. An occupational associate degree prepares you for the workforce. A transfer associate degree prepares you for a higher education and the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor's Degrees
Open the door to greater job opportunities and significant earnings potential with a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degree programs are 4-year programs comprised of general education classes and classes in a specific field of study. A high school diploma, GED, or associate degree are the education requirements for a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is a requirement for higher education pursuits including a master’s degree or doctorate. There are many options when it comes to where to find a bachelor’s degree program including community colleges, state universities, traditional colleges and even online. Bachelor degree programs are not just for the young and just starting out, more and more adults are pursuing these degrees and the promise of a brighter future.
Master's Degrees
A master’s degree is a course of study on a specific subject that usually takes 1-3 years to complete. A bachelor’s degree is required and there are some joint bachelor’s degree/master’s degree programs where both a bachelor’s and master’s degree are awarded upon completion of the curriculum, usually taking 4-5 years. A master’s degree can result in significant career opportunities and positions of great responsibility. Not surprisingly, a master’s degree can lead to increased earnings as well as benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. With a master’s degree, one can go on to pursue a doctoral degree. Master’s degrees are available in most fields and consist of a mix of classes and research. A dissertation or thesis is often required to graduate.
MBAs
An MBA or Master’s degree in Business Administration is an excellent master’s degree program for those pursuing upper management positions in business. A bachelor’s degree plus some work experience in business is required for admission into an MBA degree program. With an MBA, the prospects for career advancement and higher earnings are significant. There are many MBA’s available including: MBA in Leadership, MBA in Entrepreneurship, MBA in Accounting, MBA in Health Care Management, and MBA in Public Policy. It is possible to combine two disciplines into one MBA degree program, for instance a blend of Information Technology and Business. An Executive MBA is a possibility for MBA degree holders with sights on higher education. MBA degree programs can be completed while maintaining a job and there are many offered online.
Doctoral Degrees
A doctoral degree is the highest level of academic achievement. It usually takes no less than 3 years and in many cases more than 7 years to complete, depending on the field of study. Doctoral degrees are often a requirement for those interested in pursing a career in the academic world. A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree is the required education for entrance into a doctoral degree program. There are three types of doctoral degrees including: professional, research and honorary. The final step in a doctoral degree program is a dissertation or academic research paper which is defended in a public arena. There are some doctoral degrees for which there is no dissertation such as a medical doctor or juris doctor also known as a lawyer.
