higher degree

USAGE SUMMARY

"higher degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to describe a higher level of education or training such as a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or doctorate. For example, "I am currently working towards my higher degree in science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both were cooked to the next higher degree of doneness.

The New York Times

"There's also a huge range of higher degree apprenticeships.

The Guardian

The modernists accepted a higher degree of difficulty.

The New Yorker

Until Bhargava's work, no one realized that other composition laws existed for polynomials of higher degree.

The Guardian

Evidence subsequently gathered by Morris points to an even higher degree of Israeli responsibility.

The Guardian - Books

If you're considering a higher degree, Education Guardian's Postgraduate Guide, launched today, will help your research.

The Guardian

The jobs of the future will require a higher degree of education than ever before.

The Guardian

There also needs to be a higher degree of protection for journalists and their sources.

The Guardian

Many postal workers now say they perform their jobs with a higher degree of trepidation.

The New York Times

Qualifications needed: 2 1 first degree or 2 2 honours degree plus a higher degree.

The Guardian

There was definitely a higher degree of sensitivity coming out of big events".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing academic qualifications, clarify the specific type of "higher degree" (e.g., Master's, PhD) for better precision.

Common error

Avoid using "higher degree" when a more specific term like "master's degree" or "doctorate" is more appropriate, as it can lack clarity in formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "higher degree" functions primarily as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, such as "apprenticeships" or "education". Ludwig AI shows that it generally signifies an advanced level of academic qualification or a greater intensity of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "higher degree" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to advanced academic qualifications or elevated states, Ludwig AI confirms. It is most frequently used in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While generally appropriate, it's crucial to consider the specific context and opt for more precise terminology like "Master's degree" or "Doctorate" when applicable to avoid overgeneralization and maintain clarity. To broaden your vocabulary you can use advanced degree, postgraduate degree as valid alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advanced degree

Replaces "higher" with "advanced", emphasizing the level of progression.

postgraduate degree

Specifies the level of study as being after a bachelor's degree.

graduate degree

Similar to postgraduate, indicating study after a bachelor's degree.

doctoral degree

Indicates a specific type of higher degree focused on research.

master's degree

Indicates a specific type of higher degree focused on advanced studies.

elevated level

Uses a more general term for 'degree', focusing on the concept of advancement.

superior level

Indicates a higher position or quality, not strictly educational.

increased level

Focuses on the rise or increase in something, applicable in various contexts.

more advanced stage

Emphasizes the progression to a more developed point.

greater extent

Shifts the focus from education to the magnitude or scope of something.

FAQs

How is "higher degree" typically used in academic contexts?

In academic settings, "higher degree" usually refers to qualifications beyond a bachelor's degree, such as a "master's degree" or a doctorate. It signifies advanced study and research in a specialized field.

What are some alternative ways to say "higher degree" in professional contexts?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "advanced degree", "postgraduate degree", or specify the exact degree such as "MBA" for clarity.

Is it appropriate to use "higher degree" in informal conversation?

While grammatically correct, "higher degree" might sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler terms like "advanced education" or just mentioning the specific degree you're pursuing.

What's the difference between "higher degree" and "further education"?

"Higher degree" specifically refers to qualifications beyond a bachelor's degree, while "further education" is a broader term that encompasses any education pursued after secondary school, including vocational training and other non-degree programs.