Common Degree and Program Abbreviations Explained

Your Guide to College Degree Abbreviations and Program Codes

Navigating college and university programs can be overwhelming. One thing that can trip you up is the sea of degree abbreviations and program codes. Whether you are filling out applications, researching different fields, or considering new career paths, understanding these abbreviations is essential. Let’s break down the most common degree and program abbreviations to help you make informed choices.

Popular College Degrees and Their Abbreviations Explained

You’ll often see degree names shortened into two, three, or four-letter abbreviations on college materials. These represent levels of study and specific focus areas. Here’s a closer look at the most popular types:

• AA – Associate of Arts: A two-year degree focused on liberal arts or general studies.
• AS – Associate of Science: Similar to AA, but with a focus on mathematics, science, or technical studies.
• AAA – Associate of Applied Arts: Geared toward students seeking direct workforce entry in creative fields.
• AAS – Associate of Applied Science: Prepares students for technical or trade careers.
• BA – Bachelor of Arts: Four-year undergraduate degree emphasizing the humanities, social sciences, or liberal arts.
• BS – Bachelor of Science: Four-year undergraduate degree with a focus on math, science, or technical fields.
• BBA – Bachelor of Business Administration: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or related areas.
• MA – Master of Arts: Graduate degree often focused on humanities and social sciences.
• MS – Master of Science: Graduate degree centered around scientific or technical disciplines.
• MBA – Master of Business Administration: Postgraduate business degree for management or leadership roles.
• MEd – Master of Education: Designed for current or future educators aiming to advance in their careers.
• PhD – Doctor of Philosophy: The highest academic degree, ideal for research-based or scholarly careers.
• EdD – Doctor of Education: Geared toward education professionals seeking leadership roles in schools or universities.
• MD – Doctor of Medicine: Professional medical degree for physicians.
• JD – Juris Doctor: Professional degree in law for future lawyers or attorneys.
• MPH – Master of Public Health: Postgraduate degree for careers in public health or healthcare administration.
• DDS – Doctor of Dental Surgery: Required degree for dentists.
• DVM – Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: Professional medical degree for veterinarians.

Understanding Common Program Abbreviations in Higher Education

Besides degree types, many college programs use abbreviations based on their specialty area. Knowing these can help you find programs that match your interests or career goals. Here are a few you might encounter:

• CIS – Computer Information Systems: Program focused on IT management and networking.
• ENG – Engineering: May appear as AE (Aerospace), ME (Mechanical), CE (Civil), or EE (Electrical Engineering).
• PSY – Psychology: Degrees in human behavior, cognition, and mental health.
• CS – Computer Science: Courses covering programming, algorithms, and software development.
• NURS – Nursing: Prepares students for RN or BSN qualifications.
• ACCT – Accounting: Studies in financial reporting and auditing.
• SCM – Supply Chain Management: Focuses on logistics and operations for business sectors.
• HIST – History: Programs centered on past events, cultures, and societies.
• ECON – Economics: Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic policy.
• CHEM – Chemistry: Discipline of chemical studies, analysis, and research.
• MKTG – Marketing: Business area dealing with promotion and sales strategies.
• BIO – Biology: Explores living organisms and life systems.
• EDU – Education: Training future teachers and education specialists.

What Do Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Abbreviations Mean?

The education system in the U.S. recognizes a clear distinction between undergraduate and graduate programs. Here is what these terms and their abbreviations mean for you:

• Undergraduate: Refers to Associate and Bachelor’s degrees (AA, AS, BA, BS). These are entry-level higher education programs.
• Graduate: Includes Master’s and Doctoral degrees (MA, MS, MBA, PhD, EdD, MD, JD, etc.), designed for advanced study in a specialty area.

Most careers require a specific minimum degree level. For example, teaching at most public schools requires a Bachelor’s and state certification, healthcare roles like nursing or medicine need advanced graduate-level credentials, and many specialized technical jobs demand at least an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

Why Do Colleges and Universities Use Abbreviations?

College and program abbreviations save space on forms, websites, and diplomas. They also create a shared language among academic communities. As you plan your education, these abbreviations can help you compare various colleges, scholarships, and job listings more easily.

How to Decode Program Abbreviations When Researching Colleges

When exploring college catalogs or application guides, you’ll likely encounter both common and less familiar abbreviations. Here is a quick way to make sense of them:

• Look for a key or legend that defines abbreviations on the college’s website.
• If a code is unclear, ask an admissions advisor or refer to the program’s full title in the catalog.
• Use search engines to match program abbreviations with their definitions and requirements.

Each college may have a unique combination of programs. Some may combine letters (like BSEd for Bachelor of Science in Education, or MPA for Master of Public Administration). Always check with the school’s official materials for accurate information.

Related Questions About Degree Abbreviations and Program Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a BA and BS degree?

A BA (Bachelor of Arts) focuses more on humanities, communication, or social sciences. A BS (Bachelor of Science) includes more coursework in math, science, or technical areas. The choice depends on your interests and career goals.

What does "cum laude" mean on a degree?

"Cum laude" is a Latin honor that means "with honor." It signifies a student graduated with academic distinction—typically with a GPA above a certain threshold.

How do I know which degree abbreviation matches my career goals?

Research your intended career path and see what degrees employers and industry standards require. For example, if you want to teach high school science, a BS or BA in Education or the subject area along with certification is usually needed.

Are program abbreviations the same at every college?

Not always. Many abbreviations are standardized, but some colleges may use unique codes. Always check the school’s catalog or ask an advisor for clarification.

What are the most common graduate degree abbreviations?

Some of the most common are MA (Master of Arts), MS (Master of Science), MBA (Master of Business Administration), MEd (Master of Education), PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), MD (Doctor of Medicine), and JD (Juris Doctor).

Which degree abbreviation is used for teachers?

Many teachers earn a BA (Bachelor of Arts) or BS (Bachelor of Science) in Education for elementary or secondary teaching. For higher-level roles, a MEd (Master of Education) or EdD (Doctor of Education) is common.