took a degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took a degree" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as, "He took a degree in engineering at the local university."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

First though, Golding took a degree at Toronto University.

The Guardian - Arts

It took a degree of strength and conviction.

The Guardian

He shone as a student, took a degree in Chinese and became a diplomat in Beijing.

The Economist

In 1959 Apgar left Columbia and took a degree in public health from Johns Hopkins University.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At Birmingham-Southern College, an all-white institution, he took a degree in English in 1964.

The New Yorker

She then reentered Cornell and took a degree in natural history in 1885.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He took a degree in geology in 1922 but chose to pursue a literary career.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That took a degree of creativity that a thug like Sawyer isn't capable of.

The Guardian

Afterwards, he took a degree in marine studies at Liverpool John Moores University.

The Guardian

She took a degree in anthropology at the University of London.

The Guardian

She attended the University of New Brunswick, where she took a degree in physical education in 1966.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When specifying the field of study, follow "took a degree" with "in" (e.g., "He took a degree in engineering").

Common error

Avoid omitting the preposition "in" when specifying the subject area of the degree. For example, say "She took a degree in biology", not "She took a degree biology".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took a degree" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of acquiring an academic qualification. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard and acceptable construction. Examples show it used to describe various fields of study.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

31%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "took a degree" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the act of obtaining an academic qualification. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, especially in news, encyclopedias, and to a lesser extent, scientific publications. Alternatives like "earned a degree" or "obtained a degree" can provide subtle nuances. Remember to specify the subject area with the preposition "in". By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, you can confidently use "took a degree" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earned a degree

Emphasizes the effort and accomplishment involved in obtaining the degree.

obtained a degree

A more formal way of saying "took a degree", suitable for academic or professional contexts.

received a degree

Highlights the act of being awarded the degree upon completion of studies.

graduated with a degree

Focuses on the completion of the academic program and the awarding of the degree.

completed a degree program

Emphasizes the entirety of the academic program rather than just the final awarding.

pursued a degree

Focuses on the process of studying for and working towards a degree.

studied for a degree

Highlights the academic work and learning involved in getting a degree.

was awarded a degree

Passive voice construction emphasizing the act of the degree being conferred.

attained a degree

A slightly more elevated and formal alternative to "took a degree".

secured a degree

Emphasizes a competitive element to obtaining the degree.

FAQs

How do I use "took a degree" in a sentence?

You can use "took a degree" to describe someone who has completed a university or college program. For example, "He "took a degree" in history" or "She "took a degree" and became a teacher".

What are some alternatives to "took a degree"?

Alternatives include "earned a degree", "obtained a degree", or "received a degree". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "take a degree" or "took a degree"?

"Take a degree" is present tense, while "took a degree" is past tense. Use "took a degree" when referring to a degree that someone has already completed. Use "take a degree" when refering to the action to start the academic path to get a degree.

What's the difference between "took a degree" and "graduated with a degree"?

"Took a degree" focuses on the action of obtaining the qualification, while "graduated with a degree" emphasizes the completion of the academic program and the ceremony associated with it. They're often interchangeable, but "graduated with a degree" implies formal completion of the academic program.