Post Secondary Education and Associated Degrees

Disponible en Español.

First and foremost, it's important to understand what college is. Simply put, college is a post-secondary educational institution where students can earn a degree or certification in a particular field of study. These institutions can be public or private, and they offer a wide range of programs and majors. College can be a great investment in your future, as it can open up opportunities for better paying and more fulfilling careers.

When it comes to college degrees, one of the biggest decisions a student can make is whether to pursue a two-year or a four-year degree. Both options have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on the student's individual goals and circumstances.

So you want your child to go to college? So does the University of Arizona!

2 year College Degrees

Example: Pima Community College

Also known as an associate degree, is typically awarded by community colleges
Can be completed in a shorter amount of time and at a lower cost than a four-year degree.
Graduates enter the job market or transfer to a four-year college.

4 year College Degree

Example: University of Arizona

Known as a bachelor's degree, is typically awarded by colleges and universities.
Takes around four years to complete and often requires full-time enrollment and more rigorous coursework.
Requirement for most advanced positions, and it can lead to better earning potential and career opportunities.

Types of Degrees: Associate

Associate degrees may be a requirement for an entry-level career
Can also serve as a stepping stone to earning a bachelor’s degree
Full-time- 2 years
Offered by: Community Colleges
Careers: Teaching assistant, Auditing clerk, Technicians, Administration Assistant

Types of Degrees: Bachelor

Types: Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, etc
Take between 4-5 to complete or a minimum of 120 credits
You to take courses from a variety of focus areas before deciding which track to pursue
Offered by: Colleges, University
Careers: Software developers, Financial Managers, Researcher, Teacher

Types of Degrees: Masters

Want to further your knowledge in the subject, and/or specialize in a particular area
Extra qualifications can help you stand out from first-degree graduates and impress employers
Offered by: Universities
Careers: Lawyers, doctors, teachers, librarians and physicists

Types of Degrees: Doctorate / PHD

Doctorate is usually the most advanced degree someone can get in an academic discipline
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a doctoral research degree
Typical length of a PhD is three to four years full-time
Careers: Doctor, Mathematician, Statistician, Scientist