A bachelor’s
degree is an academic degree; a combination of general
studies, elective courses and a specialty in a particular field. The particular
field is referred to as a major and the degree will be named after the major.
For example, an individual who has chosen English as a major, the degree
obtained is: bachelor’s degree in English.
Duration and Credit Hours
Most of the bachelor’s degree lasts
for four years. Sometimes, the duration may vary from two to six years depending
on the school and location. Some students take heavier class loads to complete
the degree sooner. Some attend part time classes, and it may take additional
years to earn their college diploma. The bachelor’s degree requires 120 to 128
credit hours of study to be completed. Usually, the general education of the
degree takes place during the first two years and the specialized portion, major
takes place during the last two years. The average time to complete a bachelor’s
degree is four years.
The minimum grade point average
(GPA) of 2.0 is required, although some schools will require higher GPA's for
their degrees or major.
Requirements
There are basic requirements for
getting degrees in colleges and universities. All students are required to take
a writing class, in most colleges. The scope and requirements for writing class
differs in all colleges. Students must attend upper level mathematics like
calculus to fulfill the math requirement. Students must also attend biological
science, basic earth science, and physical science classes to obtain the
Bachelor of Science degree. Sometimes, they may
need to world civilizations class as well as a history class. In addition, art
appreciation classes should be taken.
Types
The bachelor’s degree courses and
course title vary by colleges and university. There are two commonly awarded
degrees: Bachelor of Arts (this degree requires coursework in the arts such as
humanities, music, or social science) and Bachelor of Science (this degree
requires coursework to be taken in the mathematical sciences, life sciences, or
physical sciences). Other popular bachelor’s degree includes Bachelor of
Economics, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Bachelor of Business.
Benefits of Bachelor Degree
The bachelor degree offers breadth
and depth of knowledge to the students. The breadth comes from learning
different course in general studies and depth comes from specializing in one
subject. Additionally, students accomplish the ability to think critically and
use their knowledge to solve problems. Earning a degree opens many more doors in
the job market.
Special Classes
Some
jobs require additional certificates. For example, a certified public accountant
(CPA) requires a degree in accounting and you must also pass an exam. A student
is prepared for the exam while in college.