Honours vs Bachelor Degree: Which Is Better?

If you recently completed high school, you've probably been at the receiving end of several unsolicited questions and opinions. However, you've undoubtedly been confused about some terms thrown at you. If "Honours Degree" or "Hons." was one of them and your curiosity led you here, then you're at the right place. According to a survey by UNESCO, over 35% of undergraduate students globally aspire to pursue specialised degree programs such as honours degrees. So what does an honours degree mean? We're here to clear up any confusion you might have about what an honours degree is and what the difference between honours degree vs bachelor degree is. Read further so that you can confidently take your next step up the education ladder.

What is an Honours Degree?

An honours degree is a specialised academic program that goes beyond a standard bachelor's degree, requiring higher academic achievement and deeper subject-specific focus. The key distinction between an honours degree vs bachelor degree lies in its advanced curriculum, which fosters research skills and prepares students for professional or academic pursuits.

Globally, honours degrees are structured differently. In countries like the US, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Scotland, they often involve an additional year of study. However, in the UK and Canada, honours programs are integrated into the standard duration of a bachelor's degree. This variation highlights the fine difference between a bachelor degree vs honours degree based on regional academic frameworks.

Types of Honours Degrees

The nicest part about earning an honours degree is that you can do so in various ways depending on your goals and preferred study methods. The landscape of honours degrees offers a diverse collection of paths for students to pursue their passions and carve out their academic and professional identities. Here are some of the types of honours degrees you can opt for:

1. Single Honours Degree

When wondering about an honours degree vs bachelor degree, it is important to note that after completing your undergraduate studies, you may choose to pursue a single honours degree, which is regarded as an additional course. You can take a course that combines three disciplines into one honours degree, such as Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, to specialize in one of your undergraduate subjects. In contrast to integrated or embedded honours, where you finish your honours requirements throughout your study, this variety differs by needing an additional year of study.

2. Joint/Combined Honours Degree

If you choose to pursue a joint or combined honours degree, you can study various disciplines at the undergraduate level independently. This is for all the top students who can't be content to specialize in just one subject and desire the chance to have two or even three subject specializations as part of their conventional undergraduate degree. You select different study modules for each subject, and each one is offered by a different department or school within the University. This is how it works. Therefore, unless you aim high and select three disciplines, each would account for a third of your total mark.

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3. A Degree with an Honours Project

One of the simplest options for earning an honours degree is this one. It would be a typical three-year degree that includes a project or dissertation in the last year of study. Additionally, it would have a credit value of 360 as compared to a conventional Bachelor's degree's credit value of 300 and the absence of the dissertation.

What is a Bachelor's Degree?

In the UK, universities give students something called a Bachelor's degree. A bachelor degree meaning is a degree that covers a wider range of subjects and usually takes less time than an honours degree, which focuses on one specific area and takes longer to complete, like three or four years.

People who want to learn about many different things or don't want to specialize choose a Bachelor's degree. It can also be important for certain jobs or be a starting point for more learning or career growth. Another thing to note while considering an honours degree vs bachelor degree is that a Bachelor's degree can still be valuable. Some professions may require you to have a Bachelor's degree as a basic qualification.

Types of Bachelor's Degrees

There are plenty of types of Bachelor's degrees as it is one of the most opted degrees by students. Here are some of the most famous Bachelor's degrees students go for, while trying to decide between honours degree vs bachelor degree:

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA)

A Bachelor's degree BA degree includes a wide variety of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and occasionally even natural sciences. Without spending much time on one subject, it offers a well-rounded education.

2. Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Just like a Bachelor's degree, a BSc degree provides a general education in a variety of scientific fields like physics, chemistry, biology, zoology, geology, etc. Keep this in mind while wondering what to choose between honours degree vs bachelor degree!

3. Bachelor of Law (LLB)

A Bachelor's degree in LLB is a general law degree that introduces students to the foundations of legal studies. It might not provide a level of legal specialization as deep as an honours degree.

4. Bachelors of Education (BEd)

One thing to keep in mind while choosing between honours degree vs bachelor degree is that bachelor's degrees in the Bachelor of Education (BEd) are primarily intended for people who want to work in education. Although it might not go as thoroughly into certain topic areas, it gives a foundation for teaching and instructional practices.

Honours Degree vs Bachelor Degree - The Key Differences

When trying to understand the difference between honours and bachelor degree, it’s important to keep in mind a few things. Though these degree types seem almost similar, they differ in many ways. Here is an answer to the distinction between honours and bachelor degree:

Honours Degree vs Bachelor Degree - The Key Differences

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Feature	Honours Degree	Bachelor's Degree
Difficulty	More challenging	Less challenging
Research	In-depth research required	Less emphasis on research
Coursework	More coursework and exams	Less coursework
Specialization	Specialized in one or two subjects	Broader range of subjects
Career Path	Often leads to postgraduate studies	More direct entry into workforce

1. First off in our list of key differences between bachelors and honours, it goes without saying that Bachelor's degrees are significantly simpler to pursue.
2. A higher, more specialized level of research is required throughout an honours degree, and it differs from a Bachelor's degree in how new knowledge is generated each year.
3. One more difference between bachelors and honours is that whether you finish it after your undergraduate studies or incorporate it inside, it would also involve passing more exams and prerequisites than a Bachelor's degree.
4. Another key difference between honours degree vs bachelor degree is that a Bachelor's degree requires you to study each subject separately, whereas an honours degree allows you to specialize in one or two disciplines, giving you access to a particular, integrated curriculum.
5. Additionally, an honours degree would be your passport to earning a doctorate or a master's by research, which is one of the biggest difference between honours degree vs bachelor degree.
6. When comparing a bachelor degree vs honours degree, deep learning standards and subject-specific specialisation were created to set the honours degree apart from the Bachelor's.

The value of an honours degree vs bachelor degree depends on the context and the specific program of study. In general, Honors degrees may indicate that a student has taken additional coursework, completed a thesis or other research project, or maintained a high GPA, and could be seen as more rigorous or challenging than a Bachelor's degree. This could make them more desirable to certain employers or graduate programs. It may also open some career opportunities or open more options to pursue higher education.

It's also important to note while deciding between honours degree vs bachelor degree that the value of an honours degree varies depending on the field of study, and it's not always necessary to pursue an honours degree to achieve success in a particular career. It also depends on the educational institution; some universities have highly esteemed Honors programs, while others might not carry as much weight.

1. Bachelor Degree Programmes

Bachelor degree programmes are often the starting point for students entering higher education. These programmes cover a broader range of subjects, allowing you to explore various fields before deciding on a specialization. If you're wondering whether to opt for a bachelor degree vs honours degree, this overview might help:

Bachelor Degree Programmes

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Bachelor’s Programme	Fields of Study	Average Students Enrolled
Bachelor of Arts (BA)	History, Sociology, Psychology, Literature	70,000+
Bachelor of Science (BSc)	Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology	80,000+
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)	Economics, Marketing, Finance, Accounting	50,000+
Bachelor of Engineering (BE/BTech)	Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Software	60,000+
Bachelor of Law (LLB)	Criminal Law, Corporate Law, Public Policy	30,000+

2. Honours Degree Programmes

If you're still thinking of the difference between an Honours and Bachelor Degree, here's a glance at some popular Honours programmes, the corresponding Bachelor’s fields, and the number of students typically enrolled. This can help answer your query, "Is honours better than bachelor?"

Honours Degree Programmes

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Honours Programme	Corresponding Bachelor’s Field	Average Students Enrolled
Bachelor of Arts (Honours)	Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences	50,000+
Bachelor of Science (Honours)	Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics	60,000+
Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)	Business, Finance, Accounting	40,000+
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)	Mechanical, Civil, Computer Engineering	30,000+
Bachelor of Law (Honours)	Legal Studies, International Law	20,000+

Grading System For Honours Degree

To make your decision between honours degree vs bachelor degree easier, we also have the grading system here for more reference. The grading system for an Honours Degree is typically based on a student's performance throughout their studies. It involves assigning grades to indicate how well a student has done. In many universities, the grading scale ranges from A (the highest) to F (a failing grade). Here's a breakdown:

A: Excellent
B: Very Good
C: Good
D: Satisfactory
E: Pass, but not great
F: Fail

Students are usually required to maintain a certain grade point average (GPA) to earn an Honours Degree. This means they must consistently achieve good to excellent grades in their courses. Sometimes, Honours Degrees may have additional requirements like completing a thesis or capstone project. If you’d like to learn more about the grading systems of different countries such as the US, UK and Australia, find our respective guides here:

Honours or Bachelor's Degree: How To Choose

Choosing between honours degree vs bachelor degree depends on your goals and interests. To make it easier for you, here are some guidelines that you can consider while making a decision between honours degree vs bachelor degree:

1. Choose an Honours Degree if you want to specialise deeply in one field, are passionate about research, and are ready for more challenging coursework. It's great for those aiming for advanced careers or further education.

2. Choose a Bachelor's Degree if you prefer a broader education, want to explore various subjects, or are unsure of your career path. It's a good foundation for many jobs and can be a stepping stone to more specialised degrees later.

Honours are for in-depth expertise, while Bachelor's offers a well-rounded education. Think about your passions and where you see yourself in the future to make the best choice.

Is Honours Degree Worth It?

An honours degree is like adding a special topping to your ice cream. It's extra, but it can make your degree taste even better!

Benefits of an Honours Degree

Here are some reasons why an honours degree might be a good choice for you:

1. Deeper knowledge: You get to dive deep into your favourite subject. This can make you a super expert in your field.
2. Better job chances: Many employers look for people with honours degrees because it shows you're smart, dedicated, and can handle tough challenges.
3. Higher salary: In some cases, people with honours degrees can earn more money than those without.
4. Research skills: You'll learn how to find information, think critically, and write well. These skills are useful in many jobs.
5. Postgraduate study: If you want to go to grad school, an honours degree can be a great stepping stone.

An honours degree takes more time and effort. So, think carefully about your goals and if the extra work is worth it to you.

Top Universities for Bachelor's Degrees

Embarking on Honours and Bachelor Degree marks the beginning of a transformative journey, where academic pursuits intertwine with personal growth and future aspirations. Selecting the right university for this pivotal stage sets the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career ahead. Here are a few top universities to consider while choosing between honours degree vs bachelor degree:

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT stands as a global leader in science, engineering, and technology, renowned for its cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation

2. Cambridge University

With a history spanning over 800 years, Cambridge University epitomizes academic excellence, tradition, and intellectual rigour. Located in the historic city of Cambridge, England, it comprises a diverse community of scholars and students from around the world. Cambridge University offers a wide range of bachelor's courses and has a strong academic reputation.

3. Harvard University

It is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, Harvard University is synonymous with prestige, scholarship, and influence. Situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard boasts a rich legacy of producing world leaders, Nobel laureates, and pioneering thinkers.

4. Stanford University

Home to a diverse and dynamic community of scholars, Stanford University fosters a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and social impact. Its picturesque campus provides an inspiring backdrop for students to pursue their academic passions and embark on transformative endeavours.

5. Oxford University

With a legacy dating back to the 12th century, Oxford University is synonymous with academic excellence, tradition, and intellectual inquiry. Situated in the historic city of Oxford, England, it comprises a constellation of colleges and departments, each offering a unique academic experience.

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Top Universities for Honours Degrees

Choosing the right university for this transformative journey of honours degree vs bachelor degree is paramount, as it not only defines the quality of education but also opens doors to opportunities and networks that can profoundly influence prospects. Some top universities when considering honours degree vs bachelor degree are:

1. Harvard University

Harvard University is famous for its rigorous academic programs and research opportunities. If you wish to join this esteemed organization, then have a look at our blog on Harvard University acceptance rate, which will provide you with all the information you need.

2. Oxford University

Oxford University is renowned for its long history of academic excellence and specialized Honours programs. The first step to joining this institution is knowing about the application requirements and deadline, which you can read all about in our blog on Oxford University Application requirements, deadlines and FAQs.

3. Stanford University

Stanford University is known for its cutting-edge research and strong Honours options. Stanford University has a range of programs and courses, which makes attending this university one of the best decisions for students. Start by reading about Stanford University acceptance rate!

4. Cambridge University

Cambridge University offers a wide range of Honours courses and has a strong academic reputation. Our detailed guide on Cambridge University, which covers top courses, admissions, and requirements, will help you make your decision faster if you are considering this esteemed university.

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is known for its focus on science and technology Honours programs. It is one of the most well-known universities where thousands of students flock from different parts of the world. Want to be a part of this university? Start by reading everything about the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in our detailed blog.

6. University of California, Berkeley

As one of the premier public research universities in the world, the University of California, Berkeley, is renowned for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and commitment to social change. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, UC Berkeley offers a lively and diverse campus community, attracting top scholars and students from around the globe

7. University of Sydney

Situated in one of the world's most livable cities, the University of Sydney is Australia's oldest and most prestigious university. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation, the University of Sydney offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

8. University of Toronto

As Canada's leading institution of higher learning, the University of Toronto is renowned for its academic excellence, research prowess, and diverse community. Situated in the heart of one of the world's most multicultural cities, It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across three campuses. Here is a complete guide to the University of Toronto acceptance rate.

To sum up, both Honours and Bachelor degrees have their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Honours degrees offer more specialized and advanced coursework. However, Bachelor's degrees are often more flexible and can allow students to explore different areas of interest before committing to a specific career path. Ultimately, deciding between an Honours and Bachelor Degree will depend on the individual student's career goals, academic interests, and personal preferences. There are various entrance exams scores which are considered for admission, one of which is IELTS, which you can read more extensively about in our blog! So now that you know the key difference between honours degree and normal degree, which are you choosing?