What Is a Terminal Degree? Everything You Need to Know

If you’ve been exploring options for advancing your education or career, chances are you’ve come across the term “terminal degree.” But what does that mean? Is it the final stop in your academic journey? Is it required for specific careers? And how do you know if you need one?

At Bellevue University, we know how important it is to make informed decisions about your education. So let’s break it down—plain and simple. In this article, we’ll walk you through what a terminal degree means, why it matters, and how to decide if it’s the right destination for you.

What Is a Terminal Degree?

A terminal degree is the highest academic degree available in a specific field. It marks the final stop on a formal educational journey.

However, not all terminal degrees are doctoral degrees. In some fields (like psychology or education), a doctoral degree is the terminal credential (e.g., Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed. D.). In other fields, such as fine arts or architecture, the terminal degree may be a master’s (e.g., MFA).

Terminal Degrees vs. Master's and Doctoral Degrees

To better understand how terminal degrees fit into the broader landscape of graduate education, here’s a quick look at the difference between master’s and doctoral degrees:

• Master’s Degree: An advanced graduate-level degree that provides specialized knowledge. In some industries (e.g., creative writing, design), a master’s is the terminal degree.
• Doctoral Degree: The highest academic credential, typically required for higher education teaching, research, and leadership positions.

Is an MBA a Terminal Degree?

In many industries, an MBA is the highest degree you’ll need to advance to top leadership or management positions. It’s a terminal degree for professionals aiming for executive roles in business, finance, marketing, and management.

However, in academia or specialized fields, a doctoral-level business degree like a DBA, Doctor of Business Administration, is often considered a true terminal degree. For those who want to conduct research or become an expert and thought leader in their chosen topic at the highest level, a Ph.D., like Bellevue’s Ph.D. in Human Capital Management, is considered a terminal degree. If you’re considering either of these degrees, reading this article explaining the differences between the two is a good next step.

Most Popular Terminal Degrees

Terminal Master’s Degrees:

While doctoral degrees are often essential in academic or high-level research roles, terminal master’s degrees are highly respected and, in many industries, are the highest credential you’ll need.

• Professional Arts: A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is widely considered the terminal degree in creative writing, visual arts, and theater.
• Library Science: A Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) is the go-to credential for librarianship.
• Project Management: In this field, a master's degree, such as Bellevue's MPM, is often considered the terminal degree for high-level project leadership roles.

Doctoral Degrees:

In other areas, you typically need a doctoral degree to reach the highest levels, particularly when it comes to research, policy, or university-level instruction:

• Academia: Many full-time faculty positions require a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate.
• Psychology: Clinical and research psychologists often need a Psy.D. or Ph.D.
• Education Leadership: A Doctor of Education (Ed. D.) is the terminal degree for superintendents, deans, and education policy experts.
• Business Research and Teaching: A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or Ph.D. in business may be required for academic and research careers.

The DBA program is all online, with students everywhere. I loved the chance to research and collaborate with students who have real-world industrial experience. That’s what attracted me to this position. Bellevue University offers a new way of innovative teaching for students who work full time, and I am excited to help them enhance their management skills. Conducting application-based research and writing a research paper in management helps them become an expert in that area.

– Dr. Inhyun Han, Assistant Professor in Bellevue University’s DBA program

Terminal Degrees at Bellevue University

At Bellevue University, terminal degrees are designed for working professionals who want to advance to the highest levels in their field, whether through a doctoral program or a master’s that serves as the top credential in their profession.

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

The Doctor of Business Administration is a practice-based doctoral degree for experienced professionals ready to lead at the executive level. The DBA focuses on strategy, leadership, and applying advanced business theory to real-world challenges.

Potential career paths:

• Chief executive officer
• Organizational consultant
• Business strategist
• University faculty (business and management)

Ph.D. in Human Capital Management

The Ph.D. in Human Capital Management is a research-focused doctorate that explores the strategic role of people in organizations. This Ph.D. is ideal for HR and leadership professionals aiming to drive change through data and strategy.

Potential career paths:

• Chief human resources officer
• Workforce development leader
• Organizational development consultant
• Researcher or professor

Master of Science in Threat Assessment and Management

The Master of Science in Threat Assessment and Management is a specialized terminal degree for security, intelligence, or emergency response professionals. It prepares graduates to assess and manage threats to public safety in complex environments.

Potential career paths:

• Corporate or government threat analyst
• Emergency management director
• Security consultant
• Intelligence operations manager

Master of Project Management (MPM)

The Master of Project Management is a terminal credential for high-level project leadership across industries. Built for working adults ready to lead teams, manage complex projects, and level up their careers.

Potential career paths:

• Senior project manager
• Program director
• PMO leader
• Project management consultant

The Academic Value and Rigor of Terminal Degrees

Earning a terminal degree is a significant academic accomplishment. These programs are designed to challenge you to become an expert in your field and prepare you for leadership roles.

Why are terminal degrees so rigorous?

• Advanced Coursework: You’ll dive deep into specialized theories and methodologies, advancing your expertise beyond foundational knowledge.
• Research and Application: Many terminal degrees require original research, a dissertation, or a capstone project, allowing you to contribute something new to your field.
• Independent Learning: Much of the work is self-directed, requiring discipline, time management, and critical thinking to succeed.
• Faculty Mentorship: You’ll receive guidance from experienced academic mentors who help you refine your research and career goals.
• Long-Term Impact: Terminal degrees are recognized for their academic rigor, opening doors to top-tier professional roles and leadership positions.

Bottom line? Terminal degrees aren’t easy—and that’s the point. They’re designed for people who want to go further, dig deeper, and truly master their craft. And with that challenge comes real opportunity.

Ready to take the next step? Explore doctoral admissions at Bellevue University to learn how you can get started.

Should You Pursue a Terminal Degree?

A terminal degree is a serious commitment—of time, energy, and resources. So, how do you know if it’s the right move for you?

Start by considering your goals and the expectations in your field. Some professions value a terminal master’s as the highest credential needed for advancement (like in project management, fine arts, or architecture). Others—like university teaching, research, or clinical psychology—may require a doctoral degree to reach the top levels.

Here are a few key factors to weigh as you decide:

• Career Goals: What roles are you aiming for? A terminal master’s may prepare you for senior or specialized roles, while a doctorate is often required for leadership, research, or academic positions.
• Industry Standards: Some fields have clear expectations for terminal credentials. Make sure you understand what’s required to move up in your profession.
• Time Commitment: Terminal degrees—especially doctorates—can take several years to complete. Be realistic about how much time you can dedicate to your studies.
• Cost and Return on Investment: Consider the financial investment and how the degree aligns with your long-term earning potential and job opportunities.
• Passion and Readiness: These programs are demanding. Are you excited to dig deep, challenge yourself, and specialize at a high level?

No matter which path you choose, Bellevue University is here to help you succeed. With flexible online programs, real-world-focused curriculum, and built-in support systems, we make it possible to pursue advanced education while balancing your career and life.

Learn more about the different ways to learn at Bellevue University.

The Long-Term Value of a Terminal Degree

A terminal degree is a valuable investment in your future, with the professional credibility to power career growth and academic achievement. It equips you with the advanced knowledge and skills to reach the highest levels in your field, whether in leadership, academia, or specialized roles.

At Bellevue University, we offer a range of graduate and doctoral programs designed to help you achieve your career and academic goals. From the DBA to the Ph.D. in Human Capital Management, our programs provide real-world knowledge and practical experience.

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