A Bachelor's or Master's DEGREE is an academic qualification awarded by universities and colleges upon completion of a course of study. It is the highest level of education that can be achieved in a particular field, and is typically required for certain professional roles. The term 'DEGREE' is derived from the Latin word 'gradus', meaning 'STEP'. A Bachelor's or Master's DEGREE is usually awarded after a student has completed a minimum of three to four years of study in a particular subject.