The term 'stage of progression' can be summarized as a DEGREE of advancement. The crossword solutions for this term are 'DEGREE, ' which is a six-letter word. A DEGREE is an academic qualification awarded by a college or university upon completion of a course of study. It is typically used to signify the completion of a program of study and is often a prerequisite for further study or employment. Degrees can range from associate's degrees, which are two-year programs, to doctoral degrees, which are typically four-year programs.