Which degree is generally regarded as the beginning of post-secondary education?

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The degree that is generally regarded as the beginning of post-secondary education is the bachelor's degree. This level of education typically follows the completion of secondary education, which includes high school, and signifies that the student has attained a foundational level of knowledge in their chosen field.

A bachelor's degree also generally involves a broad-based curriculum and can serve as a prerequisite for higher degrees such as a master's or PhD. It typically includes general education courses along with specialized courses related to the major, thereby providing a well-rounded educational experience. Furthermore, many professions require at least a bachelor's degree for entry-level positions, solidifying its role as the standard starting point for post-secondary education.

In contrast, master's degrees and PhDs represent advanced levels of study that require the completion of a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment. Certificates, while valuable for skill development and professional advancement, are often not classified in the same way as degree programs and can sometimes be obtained without a full post-secondary educational background.