What is a Bachelor’s Degree?

A Bachelor’s Degree, also referred to as a baccalaureate degree, is a credential awarded after about four full-time years of college. It usually takes about 120 credit hours, or 40 courses, to complete. Some programs may also require internships or laboratory work, depending on the institution and the course of study.

Individuals who earn a Bachelor’s Degree will be qualified to hold many jobs upon graduation, but will also be able to enroll in a master’s program if they choose.

What types of Bachelor’s Degrees can students earn?

The two main types of Bachelor’s Degrees are a Bachelor of arts (BA) and a Bachelor of science (BS). In general, students who pursue a BA study the humanities, which includes art, history, literature, English and foreign languages. Students who are enrolled in a BS program tend to focus on science-related topics, such as nursing, biology and psychology. However, some institutions may offer a BS and a BA in the same subject. In this situation, a BS usually demands additional work, such as internships or a concentration.

Students can also earn a Bachelor of fine arts (BFA). This is typically given to individuals who major in performance or visual arts. Most of the coursework for these degrees is done in studios or laboratories instead of classrooms.

Specialized Bachelor’s Degrees also exist for some courses of study. For example, college attendees can earn a Bachelor’s of business administration (BBA) or a Bachelor’s of information technology (BIT).

Where can people earn this degree?

Most students earn a Bachelor’s Degree at a four-year college or university. However, online institutions are becoming increasingly popular for those who wish to pursue this credential.

What kinds of jobs require a Bachelor’s Degree?

According to a Georgetown University study, by 2018, it is estimated that almost one-quarter all of jobs will require a Bachelor’s Degree. These employment opportunities include positions from a wide variety of industries.

For example, individuals who want to become social workers will need a Bachelor’s in social work (BSW) for an entry-level position, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports. These professionals assist individuals in a variety of ways, such as directing them to available resources and helping them cope with relationship problems. Some social workers conduct research for various companies, advocate for causes or assist in policy creation.

Another job title that demands a Bachelor’s is accountant, according to the BLS. These individuals make sure that a firm’s taxes are paid on time, public records are kept accurately and the company is running efficiently. Often working for individual clients, businesses or the government, accountants are responsible for communicating and analyzing financial information.

Most financial managers have a Bachelor’s Degree in business administration, finance or accounting, the BLS states. Upon graduation, these individuals oversee investment activities, prepare financial reports and utilize budget management strategies for various companies.

Other positions that typically require candidates to have at least a Bachelor’s Degree include news reporter, advertising manager, real estate manager, computer and information systems manager, dietitian and athletic trainer, according to the BLS.

Can this degree increase salaries?

The BLS reports that individuals who decide to further their education and earn a Bachelor’s will have higher salaries than those who do not. On average, people who have a Bachelor’s Degree make about $53,300 annually. This salary is reduced to $39,572 per year for someone who holds an associate’s degree and $32,552 for an individual who has only a high school diploma.

Additionally, the BLS reports that the highest-paying positions in any field typically demand a Bachelor’s Degree or higher.

*Source Reference: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. http://www.bls.gov