Options for after High School
What is the Difference?
What is the difference between an AA, a Bachelor's and other degrees?
Each type of degree requires different types and lengths of learning and prepares the student for different kinds of occupations. Some focus exclusively on a specific skill or area of study while others focus on general education. Still others combine a broad liberal arts education and a focus (major) in a particular field. Different jobs or careers require different educational preparation. The level of the degree does not necessarily predict future employment, job satisfaction or income. Many other factors combine to impact those outcomes.
Each type of degree requires different types and lengths of learning and prepares the student for different kinds of occupations. Some focus exclusively on a specific skill or area of study while others focus on general education. Still others combine a broad liberal arts education and a focus (major) in a particular field. Different jobs or careers require different educational preparation. The level of the degree does not necessarily predict future employment, job satisfaction or income. Many other factors combine to impact those outcomes.
Apprenticeship: (certificate of mastery)
On the job training: Earn while you learn
Certificate Program: (certificate of mastery)
Job-focused college training in a particular field without general education requirements
Associate's Degrees: (AA; AS; AFA)
General College Education requirements with a particular area of interest...may transfer to a Bachelor's degree program.
Bachelor's Degree: (BA; BS; B.Ed; BFA)
2 year's of general college education requirements and 2 years of focused study in a major field.
Master's Degree: (MA; MS; M.Ed; MFA)
1-2 years of advanced studies in a particular field after Bachelor's level studies; generally involving research
Doctoral Degree: (M.D.; PhD; J.D; D.M.A; Ed.D.)
Highest academic degree; advanced postgraduate studies three or more years of independent research on an original topic, required for doctors, lawyers and other professionals.
On the job training: Earn while you learn
Certificate Program: (certificate of mastery)
Job-focused college training in a particular field without general education requirements
Associate's Degrees: (AA; AS; AFA)
General College Education requirements with a particular area of interest...may transfer to a Bachelor's degree program.
Bachelor's Degree: (BA; BS; B.Ed; BFA)
2 year's of general college education requirements and 2 years of focused study in a major field.
Master's Degree: (MA; MS; M.Ed; MFA)
1-2 years of advanced studies in a particular field after Bachelor's level studies; generally involving research
Doctoral Degree: (M.D.; PhD; J.D; D.M.A; Ed.D.)
Highest academic degree; advanced postgraduate studies three or more years of independent research on an original topic, required for doctors, lawyers and other professionals.
What Are Some Jobs I Can Get?
17 High-Paying Jobs That Only Require A High School Diploma
10 Great Jobs That Offer Apprenticeships
Jobs at every level in the Military
20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree (certificate programs)
26 High-Paying Jobs That You Can Get With An Associate's Degree
The 25 Most Meaningful Jobs That Pay Well
10 Great Jobs That Offer Apprenticeships
Jobs at every level in the Military
20 Great Jobs Without a College Degree (certificate programs)
26 High-Paying Jobs That You Can Get With An Associate's Degree
The 25 Most Meaningful Jobs That Pay Well
How Do I Get Started?
College Preparation (2 or 4 year/Bachelor's)
Washington State Community Colleges (certificate-2 year)
Washington State Apprenticeship Programs (certificate)
Guide to Online Schools (certificate-2 year-Bachelor/Master's)
Information on how to Join the Military (certificate-2 year-Bachelor-Master's-PhD.)
Consider Entrepreneurship (Training at the Washington Small Business Development Center)
Washington State Community Colleges (certificate-2 year)
Washington State Apprenticeship Programs (certificate)
Guide to Online Schools (certificate-2 year-Bachelor/Master's)
Information on how to Join the Military (certificate-2 year-Bachelor-Master's-PhD.)
Consider Entrepreneurship (Training at the Washington Small Business Development Center)
