pursuing a degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pursuing a degree" is correct and usable in written English.
For example, you could say, "John is currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science at Harvard University."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I am finally finishing college (better late than never) and pursuing a degree that I am passionate about.

Huffington Post

He was pursuing a degree in pastoral ministries.

The New York Times

Agnew, who is pursuing a degree in sociology, is now required to pay his own tuition.

The New York Times - Sports

She is considering pursuing a degree in child psychology at Borough of Manhattan Community College.

The New York Times

Mr. Shababo, 28, is pursuing a degree in neuroscience and behavior at Columbia.

The New York Times

After graduation he taught literature and psychology in high school while pursuing a degree in theology.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She was pursuing a degree in piano, discovering only later the potential in her voice.

The New York Times

Ms. Aeriel, a junior in college, is pursuing a degree in psychology.

The New York Times

Recipients design their own course of inquiry and need not be pursuing a degree.

The New York Times

Pursuing a degree in New Zealand has just become a little more tricky.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Kristy Blackwood is a senior at Dartmouth College, pursuing a degree in Global Health.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize the field of study, follow the phrase with "in" and the subject area, such as, "She is pursuing a degree in biology."

Common error

Ensure that the context clearly indicates that "pursuing" refers to academic studies. Without proper context, "pursuing" could be misinterpreted as following or chasing something else entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pursuing a degree" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action of actively working towards obtaining an academic qualification. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pursuing a degree" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase to describe the action of actively working towards an academic qualification. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts and commonly appears in news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the field of study with "in" (e.g., "pursuing a degree in biology"). Alternatives include "working towards a degree" or "studying for a degree", depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undertaking degree studies

Replaces "pursuing" with a more formal verb, emphasizing the commitment to studies.

working towards a degree

Focuses on the action of working towards the degree, rather than the act of pursuing it.

engaged in degree-level study

Highlights engagement in academic study with a specific focus on degree attainment.

enrolled in a degree program

Emphasizes the formal enrolment in a structured degree program.

studying for a degree

Uses a simpler phrasing, focusing on the act of studying with the goal of obtaining a degree.

reading for a degree

A more traditional phrasing, commonly used in British English, referring to the academic reading and study required for a degree.

completing a degree

Shifts the focus towards the completion of the degree, implying nearing graduation.

doing a degree

An informal way to express studying for a degree, often used in casual conversation.

seeking higher education

Describes the broader action of seeking further education without specifically focusing on degree.

advancing academic qualifications

Focuses on the advancement of one's academic standing through degree attainment.

FAQs

How is "pursuing a degree" used in a sentence?

You can use "pursuing a degree" to describe someone who is actively working towards completing their academic studies. For example, "She is "pursuing a degree" in engineering at MIT".

What are some alternatives to "pursuing a degree"?

Alternatives include "working towards a degree", "studying for a degree", or "enrolled in a degree program". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "pursuing to get a degree"?

While understandable, "pursuing to get a degree" is less common and slightly awkward. It's more grammatically sound and widely accepted to simply say "pursuing a degree".

What's the difference between "pursuing a degree" and "holding a degree"?

"Pursuing a degree" means actively working towards obtaining a degree. "Holding a degree" means that someone has already successfully completed their studies and been awarded the degree.