Higher education in USA has a diverse range of options for international students. The degree presented by the US universities are outstanding, and students get the chance to learn and work with some brilliant researchers in the field. The degree from the universities of the US are recognised globally for their academic excellence. The intakes in USA classically runs from September to May and can be separated into 2 academic terms of 16-18 weeks, referred to as semesters. Otherwise, some schools may function on a quarter or trimester system of multiple terms of 10-12 weeks.
Regardless of the university type, in the US, international students earn credits for courses they take, which sum towards the achievement of a program. Courses are frequently divided into "core" subject areas to offer the basis of the degree program and "major" courses to offer a speciality in a subject area. So, to give details about the current education system in USA, we have curated a guide below listing all the necessary information about the same.
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What are US Education System Levels?
The US offers a broad range of courses for all study levels. Here’s we have listed below the education system of the US.
- Elementary School
- Middle School
- High School
- Higher Education
Let’s know it in detail:
|
School Stages |
Description |
|
Elementary School |
It runs for 6-7 years early in kindergarten through to Grade 5 or 6 |
|
Secondary School |
It runs for 2-3 years, opening in Grade 6 or 7 through to Grade 8 |
|
High School |
It runs for 4 years, starting in Grade 9 to Grade 12. A diploma or certificate is given upon graduation from high school. After graduating high school & 12th grade, U.S. students may go to college or university. |
|
Higher Education |
After completing 12th grade, students can move over to higher education in USA. College or university study is considered higher education. |
Suggested: Guide to Study in USA for Indian Students After 12th
Higher Education System in US
More than 4,000 accredited universities make up the education system in USA. Unlike many countries, higher education institutions are not centrally managed but are qualified by sovereign accrediting bodies on a national or regional level. Let’s take an overview of higher education in the USA.
|
Qualifications |
Duration |
Description |
|
Associate Degree |
2 years |
Typically, 2-year programs are planned to offer international students’ basic knowledge of subjects. They prepare students for entry-level positions in fields counting designing, nursing, and education. |
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
3 – 4 years |
It takes 4 years to complete; the programs provide students with education and training for most career paths. Bachelor's degree in USA for international students includes core courses, major, minor and electives. |
|
Master’s Degree (Professional) |
1 to 3 years |
Leads international students from first degree to specific profession; duration depends on field of study |
|
Master’s Degree (Academic) |
2 years |
Mostly awarded in traditional disciplines of arts, humanities and science; may lead students to doctoral programs. |
|
Doctorate or PhD |
5 to 8 years |
The degree is completed under the supervision of a faculty advisor. It is awarded to the student on completion of the thesis and successful defence before a panel of faculty members. |
