“College” Can Mean Different Things to Different People You’ll have many opportunities after high school graduation. The important question is, which one is right for you? Workforce Training Program Apprenticeship Military College Choosing “college” can mean different things to different people — from a training program after high school to graduate studies resulting in a doctorate degree. The real question is, what does it mean to you? Certificate and Training Programs (3 – 9 months) Technical and vocational fields of study often offer certificates and other formal training without awarding a traditional college degree. These programs generally lead to employment in an occupational field. Examples: Automotive Technology, Welding, Office Administration Diploma Programs (9 months to 1 year) Technical and vocational fields of study often offer certificates and other formal training without awarding a traditional college degree. These programs generally lead to employment in an occupational field. Examples: HVAC, Medical Assisting, Pet Grooming, Carpentry Associate Degree (2 years) Two types of associate degrees are offered. Associate of Applied Science (AAS) is a degree awarded in areas of technological and vocational specialties that are generally completed in two years of college study and are usually sufficient for entrance into an occupational field. Some AAS programs have the ability to transfer to four-year schools. Examples: Horticulture, Automotive, Nursing, Advanced Manufacturing Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) typically constitute transfer programs and are parallel to the first two years of a four year college curriculum. Examples: Liberal Arts, Art, Business, English, Math, Biology, Chemistry Bachelor’s Degree (4 years) Generally require 4 – 5 years of study. Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) are the most common degrees conferred, and both include general education courses, a major and electives. Examples: Political Science, Engineering, Nursing, English, Social Work Master’s Degree (bachelor’s degree plus 1 – 2 years) Programs that lead to first graduate degrees in the liberal arts and sciences. Typically take one to two academic years of study beyond the bachelor’s degree. Most majors available as bachelor’s degrees are also available as master’s degrees.

“College” Can Mean Different Things to Different People Doctorate Degree — Master’s plus 2 – 3 years Doctoral programs usually consist of course work and independent research culminating in a dissertation or other formal presentation of the results of independent study. Examples: Ph.D. (doctor of philosophy), Ed.D. (doctor of education), DPH (doctor of public health) First Professional Degree — 6 years Defined as requiring at least two academic years of previous college work for entrance and a total of six years of college work for completion. Examples: DC (Chiropractic), JD (Law), MD (Medicine), DDS or DMD (Dentistry), OD (Optometry) As you look at your goals for the future, examine what post-high school option is right for you.