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A terminal degree is the generally accepted highest earned academic degree or professional degree in a field of study. While an academic (or research) doctorate is considered the terminal degree in most fields of study, other disciplines may consider different degrees as terminal degrees.

In some fields, especially those linked to a profession (e.g., medicine, dentistry, law, architecture, pharmacy), a distinction is to be drawn between a terminal professional degree and a terminal academic degree. A terminal professional degree is generally required by law or custom to practice the profession. One or more degrees beyond the terminal professional degree are sometimes required for advancement or (in the case of academic institutions) employment or tenure. Depending on the professional field, the terminal professional degree can be a bachelor's or master's degree, a professional doctorate, or a research doctorate.

For example,

  • in medicine, the terminal professional degree is a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (B.M., Ch.B.) or Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree depending on the country, while the terminal academic degree can be a Master of Science (e.g., Surgery), or a Ph.D. in a medical science (e.g., Anatomy).

  • the American Library Association indicates that "The master's degree in library science from a library school program accredited by the American Library Association is the appropriate terminal professional degree for academic librarians." *

Typical Terminal Degrees

Academic degrees

 

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the "Terminal degree".

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