start a degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start a degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the beginning of an academic program or course of study at a college or university. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided to start a degree in environmental science this fall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

And new prison guidelines state that prisoners can only start a degree course six years before their earliest date of release (EDR).

The Guardian

Sally Hunt, leader of the UCU (@UCU) union, predicts a fraught period - it's the last chance to start a degree before the new fees regime kicks in.

The Guardian

Female 18-year-old pupils are now over a third more likely to start a degree course than their male counterparts, and those from poorer backgrounds are more than 50% more likely to enter university.

The Guardian

Said was unemployed but was planning to start a degree in accounting and finance at Middlesex University after deciding to turn over a new leaf, James Skelsey, defending, told Blackfriars crown court.

The Guardian

This meant that last autumn women were a third more likely to start a degree than their male counterparts, despite the fact that there are actually more young men than women in the UK.

The Guardian

"Universities bring in students who wouldn't have come to them otherwise, and have a chance to observe the academic preparedness of students before they start a degree program," Mr. Best said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He is starting a degree in sports science in September.

Independent

What books would you recommend to a student starting a degree in medicine?

The Guardian

I'm really excited about starting a degree and beginning another chapter in my life.

The Guardian - Sport

Many reported starting a degree program but dropping out because of the cost.

The Guardian

It soon became more than a hobby and on leaving school he started a degree in it at Nottingham Polytechnic.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about educational paths, specify the type of degree (e.g., Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science) for clarity. For example: "She plans to start a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature."

Common error

Avoid using the present continuous tense when referring to a future start date. Instead of "I am starting a degree next year", use "I will start a degree next year" or "I plan to start a degree next year".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start a degree" primarily functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, describing the action of beginning a course of academic study at a university or college. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start a degree" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the commencement of university studies. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its widespread usability. It is most frequently found in News & Media and Academic contexts. For alternatives, consider phrases like "begin a degree program" or "enroll in a degree course", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to specify the degree type for clarity and avoid using the present continuous tense when referring to future plans.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin a degree program

Emphasizes the structured aspect of the degree as a program of study.

commence degree studies

A more formal way of expressing the beginning of degree-level education.

embark on a degree course

Implies a journey or undertaking in the pursuit of a degree.

undertake degree-level education

Focuses on the level and type of education being pursued.

enroll in a degree program

Highlights the act of formally registering for a degree course.

initiate degree studies

A more formal and less common way to express the beginning of studies.

pursue a degree

Focuses on the act of striving towards obtaining a degree.

take up a degree course

Suggests choosing and starting a specific degree program.

register for a degree

Highlights the administrative aspect of starting a degree.

get a degree underway

Informal way of saying to begin a degree with a sense of motion.

FAQs

What's the difference between "begin a degree" and "start a degree"?

"Start a degree" and "begin a degree" are largely interchangeable. "Begin" is often perceived as slightly more formal, but both are widely accepted and understood.

How do I correctly use "start a degree" in a sentence?

You can use "start a degree" to describe the act of commencing university studies. For example: "He decided to start a degree in engineering after working in the field for several years."

What are some alternatives to "start a degree"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "begin a degree program", "enroll in a degree course", or "pursue a degree".

Is it correct to say "starting a degree" or should it be "start a degree"?

Both can be correct depending on the sentence structure. "Starting a degree" is often used in continuous tenses or as a gerund (e.g., "Starting a degree was a major life decision."), while "start a degree" is used in statements of intent or general facts (e.g., "I plan to start a degree next year.").