When considering earning a college degree to improve available career opportunities, you should first find out whether you require a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or an eventual doctorate in your chosen field. Academic disciplines and departments vary widely in how they deliver employment training. With foresight and preparation, students can approach an academic program with strategies that offer multiple job-related options.
Faulkner University offers academic programs online and at campuses throughout Alabama. Here, we help you understand the differences when it comes to master’s degree vs. bachelor’s degree programs.
Comparing Master’s Degree vs. Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Students almost always earn a bachelor’s degree before a master’s degree. A bachelor’s degree is commonly required for admission to a master’s program. The bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate degree, while the master’s is a graduate degree. Full-time students can usually earn a bachelor’s degree within four years. Graduate students may earn a master’s degree in two, three, or more years, depending on the discipline.
Higher education is organized to help students continually build on their base of knowledge. Bachelor’s degree students learn how to write academic papers and how to present materials. They develop intermediate math skills and are introduced to scientific theories and knowledge. In addition, bachelor’s degree students focus on one major area of study, such as biology, history, or business. Within these majors, students develop higher-level skills and understanding of the subject matter.
The master’s degree takes this learning to the next level. Master’s students are often required to write a thesis and present research findings. The content of their courses assumes that students have already mastered introductory material and have a basic understanding of the subject. Master’s degree programs may require students to earn a bachelor’s degree in specific subjects to qualify for admission.
How Do University Degrees Impact Career Opportunities?
Some occupations require employees to have a college degree. For example, many states require that teachers in the public school system earn a master’s degree in education. While a bachelor’s degree in business or accounting can be an avenue to securing a satisfying job, some positions require applicants to earn an MBA.
Salary Differences Between Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Holders
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), education pays. In 2022, employees earned more in wages and salary with university degrees. Median weekly earnings for full-time workers over the age of 25 were $853 for high school graduates, $1,432 for those with a bachelor’s degree, and $1,661 for those with a master’s degree. When comparing master’s degree vs. bachelor’s degree salaries, there are significant salary differences. Whether or not employees have earned a college degree also impacts their opportunities for advancement and promotion.
Another factor that students may want to account for when considering a bachelor’s degree vs. a master’s degree is the cost of each degree. The degree may be seen as a financial investment that students make in themselves, their future job satisfaction, and potential career paths. In this way, the amount of investment can be weighed against potential future gains, both in financial and personal satisfaction.
Earn a Career-Advancing Degree at Faulkner University
Faulkner University in Alabama offers several types of degree programs on our campuses in Montgomery, Birmingham, Mobile, and Huntsville. We also provide online academic programs and hybrid learning opportunities. Whether you are looking to start your bachelor’s degree or ready to move on to your master’s, Faulkner University has the tools and resources to help you grow. For more information about our degree programs, request information today.