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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

Brookline College

Brookline College is an independent, accredited institution dedicated to meeting the educational needs of a developing multicultural society. The institution is committed to preparing students academically and professionally to meet the constantly...

Online

Bryan University

Bryan University is a leader in solving complex challenges in online education and engineering transformative experiences for students. We believe that online learning can be a desired and preferred educational experience. Through a series of research...

Online

Bryant & Stratton College

At Bryant & Stratton College, we believe that life is a series of &’s, and it’s our job to prepare students for every one of them. Every twist and every turn. Every opportunity and every setback. Every step of the way. Our students come from many.

New York, Ohio, Online, Virginia, Wisconsin

California Baptist University

California Baptist University (CBU) is one of the top private Christian colleges and universities in Southern California. CBU offers bachelor's, master's and credential programs in Riverside, San Bernardino and online.

Online

Carrington College

Carrington College can help you get started in a health care career. Our focus is to help change your life for the better through education. That’s more than our purpose; it’s our promise to you. At Carrington, you can receive a quality college...

Online

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