Educational Options for International Student in California

 Language School

 Jr. High School & High School Diploma

 Undergraduate Programs

Vocational Certificate

A series of special major courses, all related to a particular occupational skill. Vocational certificate offered by community colleges and private educational organizations. Can be helpful in obtaining or upgrading employment. Major Course Only. Number of units required varies.

Associate Degree

Associate Degree requires 60 units or more which includes major courses plus general education and minor or electives. Usually referred to as AA or AS (Associate Art or Science) Degree. Normally requires 2 years or 4 semesters of full-time work. Degree offered by community colleges.

 Bachelors Degree

Bachelors Degree requires approximately 124-132 or more total units that include major courses plus general education and minor or electives. Usually refers to as BA or BS (Bachelors Art or Science) Degree. Normally requires 4 years or 8 semesters of full-time work. Student may complete the first 2 years at a community college and then transfer to a 4-year university. Degree offered by private colleges or universities.

 Graduate Program

 Master Degree

Master Degree requires Bachelors Degree plus graduate courses in a specialized area. Bachelors Degree units (124-132) plus about 36 additional units of specialized study. Usually refers to as MA or MS (Master of Art or Science) Degree. Normally requires 2 years or 4 semesters of full-time work after completion of Bachelors Degrees. Degree offered by private colleges or universities.

Doctorate Degree

Advance training beyond a Bachelors or Masters degree. Units vary, depending on field of study. Usually referred to as Ph.D. or Ed.D. (Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Education), etc. Normally requires 3 to 5 additional years of full-time work after completion of Masters Degree.