American Education System

---

Home to the maximum number of international students, the US provides a diverse range of courses for all study levels. Here’s a rundown on the education system of the US.

• Elementary school
• Middle school/Junior high school
• High school
• Higher education

• Associate degree

Duration: 2 years

Job oriented programs that allow a graduate to launch a career, it is also equivalent to first two years of a 4-year bachelor's degree

• Bachelor's degree

Duration: 3 - 4 years

Undergraduate degree that includes core courses, major, minor and elective. The four years are known as Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior.

• Master's degree (Professional)

Duration: 1 to 3 years

Leads students from first degree to particular profession; duration depends on field of study

• Master's degree (Academic)

Duration: 2 years

Generally awarded in traditional disciplines of humanities, arts, and science; may lead students to doctoral programs

• Doctorate or PhD

Duration: 5 to 8 years

Completed under the supervision of faculty advisor, PhD is awarded on completion of dissertation and successful defence before a panel of faculty members

There are various types of institutions in the US that provide quality education. These can be categorised into:

(Keep in mind, in the United States, colleges and universities are often referred to as "school". Ex: law school, medical school. Since school is a place where people learn, any learning institution can be referred to as school.)

Colleges

Smaller than the universities, colleges generally provide undergraduate degrees. Community colleges, an affordable study option in the US, offer two-year associate degrees after which you can continue your studies in the university for another two years to gain an undergraduate degree.

Universities

Offer research-based masters, doctoral and post-doctoral degrees. There are mainly two types of universities in the US:

• Public universities: Mostly state universities, established and run by the state government
• Private universities: A mix of profit and not-for-profit supported by tuition fee and donations; approximately 20% of students attend private universities