Bachelor’s vs. master’s degree: What's the difference?

Choosing the right educational path is essential for shaping your future career and achieving your professional goals. With a legacy of excellence and innovation in higher education, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences is an ideal starting point for a rewarding educational journey, ensuring you receive a top-tier education that prepares you for success.

Understanding the difference between master’s and bachelor’s degrees will help you determine which educational path aligns best with your career aspirations and personal goals. This guide will cover:

• Bachelor's degree definition and examples
• Master’s degree definition and examples
• What comes first: bachelor's or master's?
• Is a bachelor’s or master’s higher?
• Considerations for choosing between a bachelor’s vs. master’s degree
• Bachelor's and master’s degree programs at Illinois

Once you know which degree you'd like to pursue, submit your application to LAS!

What is a bachelor’s degree?

Let’s look at one of the most common questions first: Is a bachelor’s a graduate degree?

A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate academic degree, typically awarded upon completion of a four year course of study. Bachelor’s degrees are designed to provide students with a broad understanding of their chosen field while also offering a well-rounded education through general education courses.

Bachelor’s degrees serve as a solid foundation for either completing postgraduate study (grad school) or gaining professional employment, opening doors to various career opportunities. These degrees are ideal for individuals looking to enter the workforce with a solid academic background, and they’re necessary for anyone considering post-graduate studies.

Types of bachelor’s degrees

There are several types of bachelor’s degrees, each with differences regarding focus and curriculum structure. The two most common types are:

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA): BA degree courses typically emphasize humanities, social sciences, and the liberal arts, offering skill development centered around critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
2. Bachelor of Science (BS): BS degree courses typically focus on more scientific disciplines. They provide students with specialized education that places an emphasis on theoretical knowledge development.

In the College of LAS, BA and BS programs both incorporate aspects of each other, so that students receive a broad education outside their majors and deep knowledge within it. This means that upon graduation, LAS students are prepared for any path they'd like.

Bachelor’s degree programs

LAS programs provide a comprehensive education that equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for success in your chosen field. With more than 70 majors to choose from, LAS has a place for everyone! Major options are divided into three general categories:

Sciences and Letters curriculum

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Liberal Arts & Sciences is awarded to students majoring in areas focused in the sciences, with some popular majors including:

• Actuarial science
• Atmospheric Sciences
• Biology (with options to select integrative biology or molecular & cellular biology)
• Earth, society, and environmental sustainability
• Geology
• Mathematics
• Statistics

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Liberal Arts & Sciences is focused more within the liberal arts. Just a few popular examples include: 

• Anthropology
• Communication
• Economics
• English
• Gender & women's studies
• History
• Linguistics
• Philosophy
• Political science
• Sociology
• Spanish

To learn more about the difference between the liberal arts and sciences or research all your options, check out the "explore liberal arts and sciences" page. 

Specialized Curricula

Specialized bachelor's degree curriculums are more rigidly structured because they are designed to meet the demands of outside accrediting agencies in addition to established LAS degree requirements. LAS majors with specialized curricula include:

• Biochemistry
• Chemical & biomolecular engineering
• Chemistry
• Geology and geophysics

Secondary teacher education

If you'd like to become a high school teacher, there are a few options to explore while at Illinois. Bachelor’s degree courses in LAS are split into two main categories:

1. Teacher Certification in Foreign Languages 
2. Teacher Certification in Arts and Sciences

Generally students select a major that has a teaching option (such as biology, chemistry, earth science, English, mathematics, or history) and then minor in secondary school teaching. Regardless of the path, each curriculum ensures educator licensure requirements for the Illinois State Board of Education, which means that when students graduate they are ready to find a job in high schools across the state.

What is a master’s degree?

A master’s degree is a postgraduate academic program. It is awarded upon completion of an additional course of study, typically following a bachelor’s degree. These programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills beyond what is covered in an undergraduate program. Master’s programs usually take between one and two years to complete, depending on the field of study and whether you attend full-time or part-time.

So, is a master’s better than a bachelor’s degree? That all depends on your aspirations! There are definite benefits of a master's degree vs. bachelor's degree, depending on your ultimate career goals. Look at a master’s degree program as a way to deepen your expertise in a particular area—that may help you advance your career or pursue new professional opportunities by attaining a higher level of specialization. 

Types of master’s degrees

As with undergraduate degrees, master’s degrees at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are separated into two categories:

1. Master of Arts (MA): MA courses typically focus on humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts.
2. Master of Science (MS): MS courses typically focus on technical, scientific, and math-based disciplines.

Master’s degree programs

With such a wide variety of master’s degree programs available, narrowing down your list might feel challenging. One way to categorize your options is by splitting potential areas of study into categories in line with your chosen field. Here are a few examples.

1. Master’s programs in arts and humanities
   • Master of Arts (MA) in English
   • Master of Arts (MA) in Philosophy
2. Master’s programs in sciences and social sciences
   • Master of Science (MS) in Psychology
   • Master of Science (MS) in Statistics
3. Specialized master’s programs
   • Master of Science (MS) in Data Science
   • Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Science
4. Professional master’s programs
   • Master of Science (MS) in Library and Information Science
   • Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Secondary Education

To learn more about LAS-specific options, access the list of LAS graduate study programs.  

Is a master’s or bachelor’s higher?

Both bachelor's and master's degrees are valuable, but in the hierarchy of academic degrees, a master’s degree signifies a higher level of educational attainment and specialization compared to a bachelor’s degree. Here’s a quick comparison chart for easy reference.

	Bachelor's degree	Master's degree
Level of study	Undergraduate	Graduate
Course length	4 years	1-2 years (after earning bachelor's degree)
Qualification type	BA, BS	MA, MS
Focus	Broad education with a specific major	Specialized knowledge in a specific field

Bachelor’s vs. master’s: Which do I need?

Deciding between pursuing a bachelor’s vs. master’s degree can shape your career path for years to come. But don’t panic! You can navigate the decision more effectively by considering your own personal and professional goals.

Industry standards

Certain industries have specific expectations regarding educational qualifications. It’s essential to research your chosen field thoroughly, identify some positions that meet your professional aspirations, and see which type of degree is most appropriate.

A bachelor’s degree is often considered sufficient for entry-level positions and initial employment in roles across the business, engineering, and arts fields. A bachelor’s degree demonstrates that you have a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to a broad array of job roles. 

However, some fields have more stringent educational requirements. For example, careers in academia, research, and specialized fields like clinical psychology often stipulate a master’s degree as an essential or preferred prerequisite. This is especially true in positions that may lead to senior or leadership roles where a deeper level of knowledge and expertise is needed. 

Long-term career goals

Looking ahead by several years may seem impossible—after all, nobody has a crystal ball! However, your long-term career objectives will play a significant role in determining whether a bachelor’s vs. master’s degree is the right choice for you. So, it’s worth reflecting on your career ambitions to assess which degree type would best facilitate your goals.

Bachelor’s degrees are often the starting point for many career paths. They equip you with the essential skills and knowledge you need to enter the workforce at entry level. Having this degree also provides you with more opportunities for growth and advancement than if you only had a high school diploma. If you want to work in a particular industry or profession, a bachelor’s degree is an excellent foundation.

A master’s degree well-suited for those aiming for specialized roles, advanced positions, or a shift in career focus. The depth of knowledge you’ll acquire during a master’s program sets you apart as a specialist in your field, making it easier to get shortlisted for niche-specific roles.  

Salary and advancement opportunities

Educational attainment can significantly impact your earning potential. But, what is a master's degree and bachelor’s salary difference, and would the difference tip you in favor of one over the other? 

According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median weekly wage often varies based on your level of education:

• High school diploma: $899
• College course without a degree: $992
• Bachelor’s degree: $1,493
• Master’s degree: $1,737

Individuals with master’s degrees generally earn more over their lifetimes, so the return on investment could be substantial. Master’s degree graduates often find themselves qualifying for higher-level roles that typically come with greater responsibilities and higher salaries.

You also may be able to gain additional networking opportunities by studying in a master's program. Developing relationships with industry professionals throughout the course of your master’s studies, research, and internships can sometimes result in job offers soon after graduation.

Depth of knowledge and expertise

Knowing the level of expertise you want to reach is another essential criterion for determining whether a bachelor’s vs. master’s is right for you.

Bachelor's degrees provide a well-rounded education and a solid foundation of knowledge in your chosen major. A master’s degree offers targeted expertise and advanced skills within a specific niche.

Master’s programs often involve more in-depth research projects, internships, or additional training that through your additional education can prepare you for high-level positions. For example, a BA in economics will equip you with a broad understanding of global economics, politics, and cultures, making you a suitable candidate for job roles such as an international development officer, policy analyst, or foreign service officer. However, an MA in economics will provide you with a deeper understanding of complex economic issues and analytical skills, meaning you could apply for more specialized roles, such as an economic consultant, policy advisor, or research economist. 

Some students use their bachelor’s degree as a stepping stone to specialized graduate programs. For example, a Bachelor of Science (BS) in CS + economics provides a broad understanding of technology and programming, which could be leveraged into more advanced study at postgraduate level within either area. 

Time and financial investment

Both master's and bachelor's degree types require a significant time and financial commitment. Stopping at bachelor's degree level means only a four-year commitment compared to six, and two fewer years of course fees to pay. 

If you want to develop a comprehensive budget for your studies, you can use our cost of attendance calculator to help crunch the numbers. For those more focused on flexibility in terms of time, you can also check out a mix of fully online and hybrid models.

Get your bachelor’s or master’s degree at Illinois

If you’re currently debating between a bachelor’s vs. master’s, congratulations! You’re already taking significant strides toward shaping your future career. 

Ready to take the next step and hone in on your area of study? Whether you’re interested in diving into the fascinating world of undergraduate studies or seeking advanced specialization through a master’s program, LAS provides unparalleled opportunities. 

Explore our full range of liberal arts & sciences majors and graduate programs to learn more about our course offerings, program descriptions, and curriculum details so you can make an informed decision about your academic path.

Already found your perfect course? Then, submit your application and tap into all the information and support you need to plan your studies as part of the Illini family!