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Time Requirements for 4-Year Colleges and Universities
Despite the name, you're not required to complete your
undergraduate degree in four years. In many cases students will
extend their bachelors degree to a five-year program or take
online classes or summer school classes to complete their degree
in less than four years.
Students at 4-year colleges and universities are eligible to
earn a bachelors degree after the completion of 120 to 130 academic
credits. Students with an associates degree
can usually transfer a portion of these credits toward their
bachelors degree.
Is a 4-year college or university for you?
If you're looking for the traditional college experience you
see in movies, a 4-year school is the place for you. Here are
some of the reasons that students choose 4-year colleges and
universities:
- To receive a well-rounded education.
At the undergraduate level, colleges and universities
require that students take courses in a number of areas
to help them figure out what areas of study are best for
them, as well as to provide a broad base of academic knowledge. - To be eligible your dream job.
Look at job listings for entry-level positions, and you'll
find that many require a bachelors degree. Completing a
degree at a 4-year college or university will give you
the academic skills you need to be ready for the demands
of your job. - To make more money.
Studies have shown that employees who have graduated from
4-year colleges and universities tend to earn more money
than students with associates degrees or high school diplomas. - To prepare for graduate school.
If you're planning to continue your education with a masters
degree, attending a 4-year college or university will help
prepare you academically for that degree. Also, attending a
school that also offers graduate programs allows you to
learn more about those programs before you enroll.
4-year colleges and universities
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