In this article, we will explore more on how long to get a bachelor’s degree without stress. Many college grads took four years to complete the 120 credits required for a bachelor’s degree. However, that is only one road to a degree. While studying toward the crucial certificate, an online bachelor’s degree program can help you fit your studies into a hectic schedule.
Your personal tastes, the time and resources you can devote to your courses, and notably any credits you’ve already earned, will all have an impact on how quickly you can achieve your educational objectives.
How Long to Get a Bachelor’s Degree
However, the time required to obtain a bachelor’s degree typically ranges from four to six years, depending on factors. Such as credit hour requirements, study load (full-time or part-time), transfer credits, major-specific requirements, co-op programs or internships, and individual circumstances.
Credit Hour Requirements
Most bachelor’s degree programs are structured based on a specific number of credit hours. A credit hour represents the amount of time spent in class each week over a semester. Typically, a bachelor’s degree requires completion of around 120 to 130 credit hours.
However, each course typically earns students three credit hours, although this can vary. The credit hour system provides a framework to gauge progress toward graduation.
Factors that affect how long it takes to get a bachelor’s degree
Even if you’re a full-time student following a standard timeline, a variety of circumstances might influence how long it takes to get your bachelor’s degree. The following are some examples of common influences:
- Changing majors: To graduate, each major requires a specific number of courses. Although it is typical for students to change majors, doing so may extend your college experience beyond four years.
- High school credits: Advanced high school classes, such as Advanced Placement (AP), may count for college credits in some situations, though each college or university makes the final choice. If you attend college with credits, you may be able to graduate sooner.
- Community college credits: Some high school students can earn both high school and college credits by enrolling in community college coursework. Entering a bachelor’s degree program with some of these credits may allow you to graduate sooner.
- Summer classes: During the summer, many colleges and institutions offer classes. Using this “extra semester” could allow you to graduate sooner.
- Dropping classes: It is usual to reduce your course load. If you abandon a class and are unable to immediately enroll in another course, you may find that it takes you longer to achieve 120 credits and graduate.
Full-Time vs. Part-Time Study
One of the significant factors affecting the time needed to obtain a bachelor’s degree is the study load. A full-time student typically enrolls in a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester, equating to four or five courses.
Under this study load, it generally takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree. However, part-time study, with fewer credit hours per semester, can extend the duration considerably.
Common types of Bachelor’s Degrees
Bachelor’s degrees are classified into three sorts, each of which takes approximately the same amount of time to complete. They are as follows:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA): The BA degree encompasses all subjects of liberal arts, humanities, and social service. BA degrees include English, history, psychology, and communications.
- Bachelor of Science (BS): A BS degree includes coursework in math, technology, and science. Nursing, chemistry, biology, and information technology are some examples of BS degrees.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): A BFA degree focuses on artistic disciplines and prepares students for employment in the arts. Dance, performing arts, fashion design, music, film production, and photography are examples of BFA degree specialties.
FAQs
Is A Degree 3 Or 4 Years?
Bachelor’s degrees such as the B.Sc., B.A or B.Com are usually awarded after three years of study while degrees in certain professional fields, such as pharmacy, law, medicine, dentistry, engineering, fine art, music, and architecture require a study of 4-6 years.
How Long Does It Take to Get A Major?
A major usually requires about 36 credits depending on the requirements of each university.
How Many Credits Do You Need to Graduate?
You will typically need to earn 60 credits for an associate degree, 120 credits for a bachelor’s degree, and 30-60 credits for a master’s degree.
What Is 240 Credits Equivalent To?
A ‘first cycle’ (or bachelor’s) degree consists of either 180 or 240 ECTS credits. Usually, a ‘second cycle’ (or master’s) degree equates to 90 or 120 ECTS credits.
