Bachelor’s degree

Bachelor's degree is an academic degree awarded by universities and colleges upon completion of a course of study lasting three to seven years. The term "bachelor" in the 12th century referred to a knight bachelor, who was too young or poor to gather vassals under his own banner. By the end of the 13th century, it was also used by junior members of guilds or universities.

History

The history of the bachelor's degree dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe, where the degree was bestowed upon young men who had completed a certain level of education. The term "bachelor" was used to denote that these individuals had reached a "baccalaureate" level of education, which was a precursor to the modern bachelor's degree.

Types of Bachelor's Degrees

There are several types of bachelor's degrees, including the Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS). Each of these degrees has a different focus, with the BA typically focusing on the humanities, the BS on science and mathematics, the BFA on arts, and the BAS on applied sciences.

Bachelor's Degree Programs

Bachelor's degree programs typically require a student to complete a specific number of credits, which are earned by taking a variety of courses. These courses may be in a specific major field of study, as well as in general education areas such as English, mathematics, and social sciences. Some programs also require students to complete a senior project or thesis.

Benefits of a Bachelor's Degree

Earning a bachelor's degree can provide numerous benefits. It can open up a wider range of job opportunities, as many employers require a bachelor's degree for certain positions. It can also lead to higher earnings, as individuals with a bachelor's degree typically earn more than those with only a high school diploma. Additionally, earning a bachelor's degree can provide a foundation for further education, such as a master's degree or doctorate.

See Also

• Master's degree
• Doctorate
• Associate degree
• Higher education