What Is a Post Secondary Degree? Your Complete Guide

Navigating the world of higher education can feel like deciphering a complex code, especially when terms like “post secondary degree” are used interchangeably with others. If you’re planning your educational future, understanding exactly what constitutes a post secondary degree is the critical first step. This credential, earned after high school, is the gateway to specialized careers, increased earning potential, and profound personal development. It represents a formal qualification awarded by colleges, universities, and other institutions, signifying mastery in a specific field of study. From associate degrees to doctorates, the landscape of postsecondary education degrees is vast and varied, each designed to meet different academic and professional goals. This guide will demystify the concept, break down the different types, and explain how pursuing such a degree can strategically shape your career and life.

Defining Post Secondary Education and Degrees

Post secondary education, often used synonymously with higher education or tertiary education, refers to all formal learning that occurs after the completion of secondary school (high school). It is not a single path but an entire ecosystem of academic and vocational options. A post secondary degree is a formal award, typically a certificate, diploma, or title, conferred by an accredited institution upon the successful completion of a prescribed course of study. The core purpose of this education is to provide specialized knowledge, develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and prepare individuals for specific careers or for further academic study.

The key distinction between secondary and postsecondary education lies in depth, specialization, and autonomy. While high school provides a broad, generalized foundation, a postsecondary education degree delves deeply into a chosen discipline. Learning becomes more self-directed, with an emphasis on research, application, and theoretical understanding. Accreditation is a cornerstone of this system. It is a quality assurance process where an external body evaluates an institution or program against established standards. Choosing an accredited institution is non-negotiable, as it ensures your degree will be recognized by employers, other educational institutions, and professional licensing bodies. Unaccredited degrees can be worthless in the job market and for further education.

The Main Types of Post Secondary Degrees

Post secondary degrees are organized in a hierarchical structure, often called a degree ladder. Each level has distinct prerequisites, durations, and outcomes. Understanding this structure is essential for effective academic planning.

Undergraduate Degrees: The Foundation

Undergraduate degrees are the first level of postsecondary education degrees. They require a high school diploma or equivalent (like a GED) for admission. The two primary types are the Associate Degree and the Bachelor’s Degree. An Associate Degree is typically a two-year program offered by community colleges, technical colleges, and some universities. It serves multiple purposes: providing direct career training for fields like nursing or information technology, or fulfilling the general education requirements for the first half of a bachelor’s degree. Common types include the Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Science (A.S.), and Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.).

The Bachelor’s Degree is the most common and widely recognized undergraduate post secondary degree. It is usually a four-year, full-time program at a college or university. Students declare a major (a primary field of study, such as History, Engineering, or Business) and complete a curriculum that includes general education courses, major-specific courses, and often elective courses. The depth of study in a bachelor’s program is significantly greater than in an associate program. The most prevalent bachelor’s degrees are the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), which often focuses on humanities and liberal arts, and the Bachelor of Science (B.S.), which typically emphasizes scientific, technical, or professional fields. Earning a bachelor’s degree is a standard requirement for many professional careers and is a mandatory prerequisite for graduate-level study.

Graduate and Professional Degrees: Advanced Specialization

Graduate degrees are pursued after completing a bachelor’s degree. They represent advanced study and a high level of expertise in a specialized area. A Master’s Degree usually requires one to three years of additional study. Programs involve advanced coursework and often a thesis, capstone project, or comprehensive exams. Master’s degrees are sought for career advancement, specialization (e.g., Master of Business Administration, Master of Social Work), or as a step toward a doctorate. They are common in fields like business, education, engineering, and public health.

The highest level of academic degree is the Doctorate, or doctoral degree. These are research-intensive programs that can take four to eight years or more beyond a bachelor’s degree. The most common is the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), awarded in many academic disciplines. Ph.D. programs culminate in a dissertation, an original research project that contributes new knowledge to the field. Other doctoral degrees are practice-oriented, such as the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) for physicians, the Juris Doctor (J.D.) for lawyers, or the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). Professional degrees are a specific category of graduate degrees required to enter certain licensed professions. As detailed in our resource on Pre-Med Degree Explained: Courses and Requirements, the path to an M.D. is a prime example, involving specific undergraduate prerequisites, standardized testing, and rigorous medical school training.

Other Post Secondary Credentials and Pathways

While degrees are a central part of the landscape, they are not the only valuable form of postsecondary education. Several other credentials cater to different goals, timelines, and learning styles. Certificate and Diploma programs are short-term, focused training programs that can last from a few months to two years. They are highly practical, designed to develop specific skills for immediate entry into the workforce. Common fields include cybersecurity, paralegal studies, automotive technology, and web development. These are excellent options for career changers or those seeking to quickly gain marketable skills without the time and financial commitment of a full degree.

Furthermore, the rise of digital learning has transformed access to post secondary degrees. Accredited online college degree programs now offer the full spectrum of credentials, from certificates to doctorates, with flexibility that accommodates working adults and non-traditional students. The quality and rigor of a reputable online degree from an accredited institution are equivalent to its on-campus counterpart. For those unsure of their path, many platforms allow you to explore college degree programs to compare options, formats, and requirements in one place, making the initial research phase much more manageable.

Why Earn a Post Secondary Degree? Key Benefits and Considerations

The decision to pursue a postsecondary education degree is a significant investment of time, money, and effort. The benefits, however, are well-documented and multifaceted. From an economic standpoint, degree holders consistently experience lower unemployment rates and higher lifetime earnings compared to those with only a high school diploma. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly earnings and unemployment rates improve markedly with each higher level of education attained. Beyond finances, a post secondary degree opens doors to a wider range of career opportunities and provides greater job security. It also fosters personal growth, enhancing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that are valuable in all areas of life.

Choosing the right program requires careful self-assessment and research. Key steps in this process include:

1. Self-Reflection: Identify your interests, strengths, career goals, and preferred learning environment (online, in-person, hybrid).
2. Research Programs: Investigate specific majors and degrees that align with your goals. Look into curriculum details, faculty qualifications, and program outcomes.
3. Verify Accreditation: Ensure the institution and specific program (if applicable) are accredited by a recognized agency.
4. Evaluate Cost and Financial Aid: Understand total costs (tuition, fees, books, living expenses) and explore all financial aid options: scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal/private loans.
5. Consider Logistics: Factor in program length, schedule flexibility, location (or online platform quality), and support services like career counseling and tutoring.

It is crucial to approach this decision strategically, weighing the long-term return on investment against the immediate costs and commitments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is “post secondary degree” the same as a “college degree”?
Generally, yes. “College degree” is a common synonym, but “post secondary degree” is a broader term that also includes degrees from universities, technical institutes, and other institutions beyond high school.

Can I get a good job without a post secondary degree?
Yes, many skilled trades and tech roles value certifications and experience. However, a postsecondary education degree significantly expands your options, increases earning potential, and is a requirement for many professional and managerial careers.

How do I know if a school or program is accredited?
Check the institution’s website for accreditation information, which should list the accrediting agency. Then, verify the agency’s legitimacy through the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (or its equivalent in your country).

What’s the difference between a B.A. and a B.S.?
The distinction varies by school and major. Typically, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) requires more courses in humanities, languages, and social sciences, while a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) focuses more on mathematics, natural sciences, and technical coursework. The best choice depends on your career goals.

Are online post secondary degrees respected by employers?
Yes, if they are from a properly accredited institution. Employer acceptance of online degrees has grown tremendously, especially when the awarding school is well-known and the accreditation is reputable. The key is the accreditation status, not the delivery format.

Embarking on the journey to earn a post secondary degree is one of the most impactful decisions you can make for your future. It is a pathway not just to a better job, but to a deeper understanding of the world, developed skills, and a network of peers and mentors. By thoroughly understanding what a postsecondary education degree entails, from the types available to the strategic steps for choosing one, you empower yourself to make an informed choice that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. The investment is substantial, but the returns in knowledge, opportunity, and growth can last a lifetime.