Terminal Degree in 2022; Why Should I Get One

A terminal degree is the highest degree awarded in a given field. This post contains everything you need to know about a terminal degree in 2022. 

A terminal level degree can be a doctorate in philosophy, a doctorate, or a professional degree, such as a medical doctorate or a law degree. Professional degrees are legally required of a person before exercising a terminal degree, but not all terminal degrees are considered professional degrees.

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What is a Terminal Degree?

A terminal degree is the highest degree available in a given academic discipline.

It means that a student has attained the highest level of education available in the chosen field.

A terminal degree cann take many forms like a Ph.D., also known as a Ph.D. in philosophy), an EdD (Doctor of Education), or a professional degree such as a JD (Juris Doctor).

Typically, a terminal degree is not so necessary to join the job market in a student’s chosen field. But may fulfill a requirement for applicants to advance to the highest position in their respective industries.

Why Should I Get a Terminal Degree?

If you’re wondering if you need a terminal degree, the answer depends on both your particular field of study and your career goals. A terminal degree indicates mastery of your discipline, in terms of scope and depth.

However, career advancement is possible through a combination of advanced degrees and work experience. This is particularly true in emerging fields or disciplines that cannot yet offer accredited doctorate degrees or other credentials.

Finally, keep in mind that as degree programs and job requirements change, the associated terminal degree may also evolve. Specific universities, professional organizations, and accreditation bodies will generally have the latest information on terminal degrees by discipline.

Benefits of Obtaining a Terminal Degree

Although it may not be required for a successful career in most fields, terminal degrees are often recommended for students seeking executive positions in their chosen area of ​​specialization.

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Choosing to receive the highest degree in your field will provide many benefits, including a higher salary, greater responsibility, greater professional prestige, an opportunity for promotion, and the potential for teaching positions on college campuses.

However, too many professionals holding terminal degrees will make competition quite strong and could make investment less desirable for some.

Despite its name, it is important to realize that the choice of terminal degrees does not necessarily mean the end of your academic career. And there will be the possibility of completing a doctorate or continuing education courses in the future.

If you choose to receive a terminal degree, please be aware that program credit may or may not be transferable, so you may need to take additional courses to possibly continue your education.

Types of Terminal degrees in 2022

  • Terminal Doctorates Degree
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Doctor of Education (EdD)
  • Doctor of Arts (DA)
  • Doctor of Engineering (Dr. Ing, Deng, Dr. Eng, EngD)
  • Professional Degrees
  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)
  • Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dentistry (DMD)
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
  • Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD)
  • Education Specialist (EdS)
  • Terminal Master’s Degrees
  • Terminal Master’s Degrees
  • Master of Architecture (MArch)
  • Master in Library Information Systems (MLIS)
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
  • Master of Social Work (MSW)

Other Terminal Master’s Degrees Include Master:

  • Master of Architecture (MArch)
  • Master of Library Science (MLS) and
  • MSW – Master of Social Work

You can also read Top 10 Hardest Undergraduate Degrees In The World in 2022

Does it Take Long to Get a Terminal Degree?

A terminal degree generally takes longer to complete than a nonterminal degree.

For example, a person with a Master of Arts in English can complete the program within two years. 

What Does a Terminal Masters Degree Mean?

In general, a  terminal master’s degree is the highest possible university degree in a particular field of study. 

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Below is a breakdown of the two types of terminal master’s degrees so that you can make the best decision regarding your graduate studies

Typical Terminal Degrees at the Master’s Level

According to MBAGrad.org, some of the most common terminal degrees include the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, the Master of Education (M.Ed), and the Master of Engineering (M.Eng). Other masters at the terminal include the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) and the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLArch).

Professional Terminal Degree

A terminal or professional degree is aimed at people interested in professional advancement. 

The non-terminal or academic diploma is for people interested in continuing their studies at the doctoral level.

What is a Terminal Degree in Education?

A terminal degree in education, as in many other disciplines, is a doctorate, generally called a doctorate. To qualify as a terminal diploma, it must be the highest level of education offered in a given field. In the United States, a doctorate in education is generally known as Ed.D, and it is a graduate degree that prepares students to work in many capacities related to education in academia.

There are many different educational credentials, and the Ed.D, sometimes called a doctorate in education, is the highest and most specialized. It usually takes around four years to complete a doctorate, but it may take longer if the student does not yet have a master’s degree.

There are many advantages to obtaining a doctorate in education, many of which are the same as any doctorate. Those with a terminal and professional degree earn on average more than those with just a college degree. They are also more respected in academia and more likely to find satisfying positions.

Some graduates are required to hold any type of administrative position, such as a principal, so those who wish to advance in the field of education will find Ed.D very helpful. If you are interested in becoming a school principal or a higher college administrator, an ideal next degree would be a terminal education degree.

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Ensure to Also check out 20 Low-Stress Jobs That Pay Well Without a Degree in 2022

Conclusion

In virtually every field, you need a certain degree to get a job. Some jobs require a bachelor’s degree and others require you to go to graduate school. If you are in a terminal degree program, you do not have to earn another degree to obtain a position in the desired field. Essentially, a terminal degree is the highest degree in any field.

FAQs Terminal Degree in 2022

Can you earn a terminal degree online?

Yes, you can now earn a terminal degree online by taking the majority of your coursework online and then traveling to your chosen school for your dissertation meetings.

If you attend an online program with “Live” sessions with your computer/laptop, you will experience live classroom time from the comfort of your home and the experience of taking classes with a diverse population of international students. 

Can I have two doctoral degrees?

Yes, you can have two doctoral or terminal degrees. 

What do you need to earn a doctoral degree?

Most doctorate programs require at least a master’s degree in a related field, while some accept just a bachelor’s degree. Doctorate programs require intense coursework and advanced research and culminate with a thesis and dissertation that may take years to complete. You may also need to take the Graduate Readiness Exam (GRE)  

Are there degrees higher than doctorates?

In the United States, the doctorate is the highest degree. In the UK, Ireland, and some other countries, graduate-level students can earn an even higher doctorate, called the Doctor of Science (DSc) or Doctor of Letters (DLitt). 

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