How long does it take to earn a bachelor's degree?

A bachelor’s degree program is typically four years long if you study full-time. If you have transfer credits, such as from advanced placement courses in high school, it could take less time. If you prefer to study part-time, your program could take longer to complete.

Is a bachelor's degree worth it?

Many students find that earning a bachelor’s degree helps them land a new job, earn more money, or simply increase their satisfaction in life. Whether earning a bachelor's degree is worth it is highly personal and depends largely on what you want to do with your life.

What is the difference between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree?

A master’s degree is the next step on the educational ladder after earning a bachelor’s degree. A typical master’s program is about two years long and builds on the fundamental knowledge learned during a bachelor’s program.

What is a bachelor's degree?

By: Lisa Fritscher, Edited by: Mitch Jacobson

Published: March 19, 2025

Whether you are newly out of high school or have been in the workforce for a while, you might start to wonder whether furthering your education is the right choice. Read our guide to learn what a bachelor's degree is and what it can do for your future.

What is a bachelor's degree, and why is it important?

Many people think of a bachelor's degree when they consider going to college. It generally takes about four years to earn and can qualify you for entry-level roles in your field of interest. For example, you might earn a bachelor's degree in computer science if you are interested in programming. Or, if you want to help people with mental health conditions, you might pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology. There are three different types of bachelor's degrees:

Bachelor of arts (BA)
Bachelor of science (BS)
Bachelor of fine arts (BFA)

What are the benefits of a bachelor's degree?

Earning a bachelor's degree can help you:

Learn more about the things you love: While some core courses are required, the majority of your degree is dedicated to coursework in your chosen field. This allows you to explore your passions in depth.
Expand your career opportunities: Many jobs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree. If you're looking for a different career, earning a bachelor's degree can open up many new possibilities.
Access higher salaries: According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2023, the median weekly wages of workers with a bachelor's degree is significantly more than those with lower levels of education. Exactly how much you earn will depend on factors like your industry and geographic location.

Should I get a bachelor's degree?

When considering a bachelor's degree, weigh the entry-level requirements for jobs in your desired industry. Will earning a degree help you enter your field of interest? How much do bachelor's programs in your field typically cost? Does your program offer flexible course schedules that allow you to work while earning your degree?

Regardless of your industry, here are a few reasons why earning a bachelor's could be worth it:

College is a time for personal exploration. Earning your bachelor's degree can help you get to know yourself and figure out what you truly love.
You will learn marketable skills. Even if you end up going in a different career direction than expected, bachelor's programs teach many highly transferrable soft skills, such as organization and time management.
You can improve your critical thinking. The modern world is highly complex and filled with important decisions to make. A bachelor's degree program, regardless of focus, will help you learn to think critically in order to solve problems in your field.

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