College lingo can be confusing—especially if you’re a first-generation student like I was. Terms like graduate, undergraduate, bachelor’s, associate’s, and CCP get thrown around, and it’s easy to wonder, “Which one comes first?” or “How do I know I’m applying for the right degree?”
Let’s start with the basics: what’s the difference between undergraduate and graduate?
What Is an Undergraduate Degree?
An undergraduate degree is the first level of college education. If you’ve never attended college—or if the only college courses you’ve taken were through CCP—this is where you start.
As an undergraduate student, you’ll typically choose between:
- Associate’s degree – usually a two-year program
- Bachelor’s degree – usually a four-year program
You do not need to earn an associate’s degree before starting a bachelor’s degree unless a program specifically requires it (most do not).
Kent State University offers more than 80 fully online undergraduate and graduate programs, giving you flexible options to learn from anywhere.
What Is CCP (College Credit Plus)?
CCP (College Credit Plus) is a state-funded program that allows middle and high school students to take college classes and earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.
If you qualify academically, you can take these classes tuition-free. You’ll just need to work with your guidance counselor to make sure the courses you choose count toward your high school requirements.
What Is a Graduate Degree?
Once you complete your bachelor’s degree, you can apply to be a graduate student. Graduate education includes:
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral degrees (Ph.D., etc.)
Unlike undergraduate programs, these must be completed in order—you earn a master’s degree before applying to a doctoral program.
Graduate programs are more specialized and help you build deeper expertise in your field. At the doctoral level, this often includes completing a dissertation, which is an in-depth research project you design, conduct, and write about.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Choosing between undergraduate and graduate pathways depends on where you are in your educational journey and your long-term goals.
Undergraduate vs. Graduate at a Glance
- Undergraduate: First degree (associate’s or bachelor’s)
- Graduate: Advanced degree (master’s or doctoral)
- Undergraduate students: New to college or continuing from high school/CCP
- Graduate students: Have already completed a bachelor’s degree
Understanding the differences between undergraduate, graduate, and CCP pathways can make the college experience feel far less overwhelming. No matter where you are in your educational journey, Kent State offers a wide range of programs to help you reach your goals. If you ever feel unsure about which path is right for you, our Coordinators are here to guide you every step of the way.
Explore Your Options
Whether you’re just starting college or thinking about advancing your education, Kent State offers flexible online programs to support your goals.
