Higher education
18 Nov 2010
On this page
Short description of the higher education system
The tenth amendment of the United States Constitution has contributed to a highly decentralized university system in the USA. The education system is therefore very diverse, with major differences in level, content and quality. There are no standardized final examinations. Private and public institutions exist at all educational levels. All institutions must be accredited in the same fashion, and the status of an institution is no indication of level or quality. The academic year runs from September to May/June. In most states, education is compulsory until the age of 16. The language of education is English.
Types of degrees
Although the names of the most common degrees are limited, the differences in level and content can be quite large. There is no strict distinction between higher professional education and academic education; both types of education can be combined in a degree programme at the same institution. “College” and “university” are used interchangeably.
Associate degree programmes are offered by junior colleges and community colleges and require two years to complete.
Bachelor's degrees are awarded by a college or university at the end of an undergraduate programme lasting four years. In most cases, the study programme consists of general subjects (liberal arts) and electives, both of which may or may not be related to the student’s major and possible minor. There is usually a progression from a broad base towards increased specialization. Degree names indicate whether the programme was in the arts or the sciences: Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS).
Master’s degree programmes follow bachelor’s programmes and are always offered at a graduate school. Master’s programmes can take between one and three years. These programmes are very specialized, usually focusing on one discipline, and can take either an academic or professional focus. Professional master’s programmes commonly take longer (two/three years) and the field of study is indicated in the degree name, e.g. Master of Business Administration, Master of Social Work, Master of Public Health, Master of Divinity. Graduates of research-oriented programmes are usually awarded a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS).
Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, programmes are also provided by university graduate schools. A master’s degree is required for admission to a PhD programme.
Advanced professional degrees form a separate category. These programmes prepare students for professional careers, mostly in medical sciences and law.
Quality assurance and accreditation
Accreditation encompasses recognition and quality assurance, and comprises both institutional accreditation and professional accreditation (for individual faculties). The accreditation process is carried out by six regional institutional accrediting bodies and a large number of specialized/professional accrediting bodies. The most important goal of institutional accreditation is to establish the extent to which an institution is capable of achieving its stated mission and, if necessary, to provide suggestions for improvement. In this manner, accreditation also works as a quality assurance system.
