Degree Requirement Definitions
At Bowling Green State University, degree requirements play a crucial role in establishing the qualifications necessary for each position. The Degree Requirement Definitions page provides clear guidelines on how to define educational qualifications in job descriptions, ensuring consistency and alignment with industry and university standards. These definitions help hiring managers determine the appropriate level of education needed for a role, whether it be a specific degree, field of study, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
This resource outlines the distinctions between different degree levels, acceptable substitutions, and how to phrase degree requirements effectively in job descriptions. By using standardized definitions, we promote fairness in hiring, support career progression, and maintain compliance with university policies.
| Degree Level | Definition | When to Use |
| Associate’s Degree | A two-year undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. | For technical roles or positions requiring specialized knowledge beyond high school but not requiring a full four-year degree. Using this degree type would need to be approved by CHRO |
| Bachelor’s Degree | A four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. | Baseline degree; for professional-level positions requiring broad knowledge in a specific field, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. |
| Master’s Degree | A postgraduate degree typically requiring one to two years beyond a bachelor's degree. | For managerial, specialized, or expert-level positions requiring advanced knowledge, leadership skills, or specialized research capabilities. |
| Doctoral Degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., etc.) | The highest level of academic degree, often requiring independent research and a dissertation. | For roles requiring deep expertise, research, or teaching at the university level. |
| Professional Degrees (J.D., M.D., etc.) | Advanced degrees required for specific professions, such as law (J.D.) or medicine (M.D.). | For positions in licensed professions requiring specific legal, medical, or technical expertise. |
| Degree Must Be Conferred at Time of Application | Applicants must have completed all coursework and received official confirmation of their degree before applying. | For positions where a specific degree is a non-negotiable requirement to perform job duties effectively. |
Updated: 02/26/2025 02:24PM