What is a Post-Secondary Degree? A Comprehensive Guide

A post-secondary degree refers to any form of education pursued after completing high school, including programs at universities, colleges, and technical institutes. Post-secondary degrees provide specialized knowledge and training in various fields, equipping individuals with skills and credentials that prepare them for career opportunities, advanced studies, and personal growth. These degrees are integral to career advancement, and they can vary in length, depth, and focus based on the field and level of education pursued.

In this guide, we’ll cover the different types of post-secondary degrees, their purposes, and how each can influence your career path and educational goals.

1. Types of Post-Secondary Degrees

Post-secondary education encompasses a range of degrees, each offering a distinct level of depth and specialization. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

a. Associate Degree

An associate degree is typically a two-year program offered by community colleges and some universities. It’s often designed to provide foundational knowledge in a specific field, making it a great option for students looking to enter the workforce relatively quickly or pursue further education. Common associate degrees include Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS).

• Fields of Study: Popular associate degree fields include healthcare, business, information technology, and criminal justice.
• Purpose: Many students earn an associate degree to gain job-specific skills or to transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree program.

b. Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree is one of the most common forms of post-secondary education and typically requires four years of study. This degree provides in-depth education in a chosen major, along with a broad foundation in general education subjects such as math, science, and the humanities.

• Fields of Study: Bachelor’s programs are available in virtually every field, from Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees in history, psychology, and English, to Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in fields like biology, engineering, and computer science.
• Purpose: A bachelor’s degree is often required for entry-level positions in many professional fields and is a prerequisite for advanced study at the master’s or doctoral level.

c. Master’s Degree

A master’s degree is a graduate-level program that typically requires an additional one to three years of study after completing a bachelor’s degree. Master’s programs allow students to gain specialized knowledge and skills in a focused area, often leading to advanced roles in their field.

• Fields of Study: Master’s degrees are available in areas such as business (MBA), education (MEd), social work (MSW), and various sciences (MSc, MA).
• Purpose: Many professionals pursue a master’s degree to enhance their qualifications for management or specialized roles. Some master’s programs also prepare students for doctoral studies.

d. Doctoral Degree

The doctoral degree represents the highest level of academic achievement and typically takes three to eight years to complete. Doctoral programs, such as Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Education (EdD), involve in-depth research and advanced coursework.

• Fields of Study: Doctoral degrees are offered in numerous fields, including sciences, humanities, social sciences, and professional areas like law (JD) and medicine (MD).
• Purpose: A doctoral degree is often required for academic, research, and highly specialized professional positions. It demonstrates expertise in a field and typically includes a dissertation or research project.

2. Purpose of Post-Secondary Degrees

Post-secondary degrees offer numerous benefits, including specialized knowledge, career opportunities, personal growth, and higher earning potential. Here are some key reasons why individuals pursue these degrees:

a. Career Advancement

Many careers require a certain level of education, with advanced degrees often opening doors to higher-paying, specialized roles. For example, fields like healthcare, engineering, law, and education commonly require post-secondary degrees for licensing or certification.

b. Personal and Professional Development

Pursuing a degree can build critical skills, such as analytical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and time management. These skills are valuable both personally and professionally, making post-secondary education a way to foster well-rounded development.

c. Higher Earning Potential

Statistically, individuals with post-secondary degrees earn higher incomes on average than those with only a high school diploma. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median weekly earnings increase with each level of education completed, highlighting the financial benefits of post-secondary education.

d. Access to Advanced Research and Innovation

Graduate programs, especially doctoral programs, allow students to engage in research that can contribute to advancements in their field. Doctoral students often work on innovative projects that address real-world problems, making their work impactful both academically and practically.

3. Post-Secondary Degree Options for Different Career Goals

Not all careers require the same level of education, and the choice of degree often depends on the field you wish to enter. Here’s a breakdown of which post-secondary degrees are typically needed for various career goals:

a. Entry-Level and Skilled Trades

• Suggested Degree: Associate Degree or Trade Certification
• Examples: Many technical roles, such as dental hygienist, HVAC technician, or paralegal, require only an associate degree or certification. This path is suitable for those seeking quick entry into a career.

b. Professional and Managerial Roles

• Suggested Degree: Bachelor’s Degree
• Examples: Positions in business, education, and information technology typically require at least a bachelor’s degree. Roles like project manager, teacher, and marketing specialist fall under this category.

c. Specialized and Advanced Professional Roles

• Suggested Degree: Master’s Degree
• Examples: Jobs like nurse practitioner, clinical social worker, and public policy analyst often require a master’s degree for specialized knowledge and advanced responsibilities.

d. Research, Academic, and Highly Specialized Fields

• Suggested Degree: Doctoral Degree
• Examples: Professors, researchers, and scientists generally need a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree, while lawyers (JD) and doctors (MD) also require advanced degrees to practice.

4. Choosing the Right Post-Secondary Degree

Selecting the right post-secondary degree depends on a variety of factors, including career goals, time commitment, financial considerations, and personal interests. Here are some tips for choosing the right path:

a. Identify Career Requirements

Research the education requirements for your desired field. Some professions require specific degrees and certifications, while others may be more flexible with educational backgrounds.

b. Consider Time and Financial Investment

Higher degrees often require more time and financial investment. While associate and bachelor’s degrees offer quicker entry into the workforce, master’s and doctoral programs are more intensive and costly but can lead to specialized, higher-paying roles.

c. Evaluate Personal Interests and Strengths

Think about your passions and strengths. Certain fields, like research and academia, may appeal more to those who enjoy independent study and critical analysis, while hands-on careers in healthcare and trades may be better suited to individuals with practical, applied skills.

5. The Value of Post-Secondary Education in the Modern Economy

In today’s economy, post-secondary education is more important than ever. Technological advancements, globalization, and a shift toward a knowledge-based economy have made higher education critical for long-term career success. As industries evolve, the demand for skilled professionals with specialized training continues to grow.

While not all career paths require a degree, having a post-secondary education often provides a competitive edge, increased job stability, and adaptability in a rapidly changing job market.

Conclusion

A post-secondary degree is more than just a credential; it’s an investment in your future that opens doors to career opportunities, personal development, and financial rewards. Whether you pursue an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, each level offers unique advantages that cater to different career aspirations. By understanding the types of post-secondary degrees available and aligning them with your career goals, you can make informed decisions that set you on a path to success.