Capitalization of Academic Degrees
The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation
Capitalization of Academic Degrees
Perhaps you’ve wondered if and when academic degrees (bachelor’s, master’s, etc.) should be capitalized.
If you read through our Capitalization rules, you will notice that capitalization is sometimes a thorny area. We do not always have hard-and-fast rules to rely on; some areas are open to interpretation. This is evident in the area of capitalization of academic degrees as you will see from the different approaches of two of the leading American English reference books:
The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) recommends that names of degrees, fellowships, and the like are lowercased when referred to generically, but to capitalize the name of a degree when it is displayed on a resume, business card, diploma, alumni directory, or anywhere it looks like a title rather than a description. Proper nouns, of course, should still be capitalized.
Examples:
Orlando is pursuing a bachelor of science in civil engineering.
Orlando is pursuing a bachelor of arts in English.
He introduced Jennifer Miller, Master of Fine Arts.
He introduced Master of Fine Arts Jennifer Miller.
The Associated Press Stylebook (AP) recommends no capitals when referring to degrees in general terms (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, associate degree) but always capitalizing specific degrees (Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science). AP is in agreement with CMOS that the field of study be written in lower case except when it contains a proper noun.
Examples:
Orlando is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering.
Orlando is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English.
Orlando is thinking about getting a master’s degree.
He introduced Jennifer Miller, Master of Fine Arts.
Our recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent.
There is agreement, however, that abbreviations of academic degrees are to be capitalized. CMOS recommends omitting periods unless required for tradition or consistency (BA, BS, MA, MS, PhD), but AP prefers retaining the periods (B.A., B.S., M.A., M.S., Ph.D.).
Pop Quiz
- The keynote speaker tonight will be Juris Doctor/juris doctor Michael Abercrombie.
- The textbook was authored by Azizah Bakar, Master of Science/master of science.
- Eleanor is finally reaching the end of her studies for her Doctorate in History/doctorate in history.
- After studying hard for so many years, I definitely feel that I’ve earned my MS/M.S. in biology.
- Abraham worked hard to earn a Bachelor of Science/bachelor of science in Geology/geology and then a Master of Arts/master of arts in French/french.
Pop Quiz Answers
- Juris Doctor
- Master of Science
- doctorate in history
- MS OR M.S.
- Bachelor of Science coupled with Master of Arts OR bachelor of science coupled with master of arts, geology, French
If the article or the existing discussions do not address a thought or question you have on the subject, please use the "Comment" box at the bottom of this page.
I’m so confused; which is correct: I received a bachelor of arts in Criminal History or I received a bachelor of arts in criminal history?
I was under the assumption that I should capitalize the course title according to “The Gregg Reference Manual”
I love getting your weekly grammar quizzes –
Thanks
The answer to your first question is “I received a bachelor of arts in criminal history.” I agree that course or program names should be capitalized.
Thank you for providing this resource and continuing to answer questions. It’s very helpful.
I am trying to create a style guide for a college catalog with some clear rules for capitalizing program names. Should one capitalize them in all cases when the specific program name is used or only when it is used in certain contexts?
1. The School of Arts and Sciences awards associate degrees in liberal arts and sciences, chemical technology and computer science. (These are all names of degree programs, so should they be capitalized or not in this context?)
2. Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Mathematics
3. The Applied Math and Computer Science degree programs
Names of specific course titles should be capitalized, but general academic subjects are not. In your first example “liberal arts and sciences, chemical technology and computer science” are referred to generically, therefore do not capitalize. Names of academic degrees are not capitalized, however, specific program names are generally capitalized. Therefore, we recommend writing “bachelor of science degree in Applied Mathematics” and “The Applied Math and Computer Science degree programs.”
I’m a quality assurance analyst for an internet marketing company, and part of my job is to proofread website content. We work specifically with oral surgeons, so we see a lot of profile information about their education and training. Our team is developing a writing style guide, and I’m still struggling with differentiating between general academic subjects and specific degrees or programs, so it’s hard for me to settle on what to capitalize and what not to capitalize. Essentially, how do I tell the difference between an academic subject (not capitalized) and a specific course/program title (capitalized)?
For instance:
* He earned a bachelor of arts in medical biology. (I know that this is correct, but I can’t understand why. To me, medical biology is specific and should be capitalized, whereas just biology is general and should not.)
What about internships, residency programs, etc.?
* “After completing his dental studies, he entered a six-year residency program in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at….” Should oral and maxillofacial surgery be capitalized or not? Currently, we are capitalizing in these instances.
Any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated!
An academic subject is an area of knowledge that is studied at the school. A course is a specific class taken at the school. Medical biology is one of those tricky terms that could be used as a subject or a specific course title. You have to look at the way it is used in the sentence to identify it. “He earned a bachelor of arts in medical biology” implies that this is a subject area, not the title of a specific course. Specific programs are generally capitalized.
I have earned a Master’s Degree in Education, History Major and Political Science Minor.
Please correct what I just wrote with an explanation.
On a resume how would I style/abbreviate that?
Lamar —–
M. Ed. Hist & Pol Sci
M. Ed. h & ps
I’m confused.
Thank you so much for your help.
The Chicago Manual of Style says, “Capitalize degrees on business cards, on diplomas, or when displayed in a directory or resume.” Otherwise, academic subjects are not capitalized. The abbreviation for master of education is EdM. We assume that your undergraduate degree was in history with a minor in political science. There is no one correct way to write this. A couple of possibilities might be:
Lamar _____
Master of Education, Bachelor of Arts (or bachelor of arts) in history with a minor in political science
Lamar _____
EdM; BA in history, minor in political science
I am working on a brochure and someone sent me this description. Is this correct?
He has a degree from the University of Iowa in English and a degree from St. Cloud State University in theatre education.
Yes.
Should I write: Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education or Bachelor of Arts in music education?
The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) recommends the following except when directly preceding or following a name:
bachelor of arts in music education
bachelor of arts degree in music education
The Associated Press Stylebook (AP) recommends the following:
Bachelor of Arts in music education
Bachelor of Arts degree in music education
Our recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent.
When saying Bachelors of Art degree, is the word “degree” capitalized?
According to The Chicago Manual of Style, degrees should not be capitalized at all: “Names of degrees, fellowships, and the like are lowercased when referred to generically.” Yet this is on another page:
BA Bachelor of Arts
This is confusing, isn’t it? I recommend writing bachelor of arts degree.
“Bachelor of Arts degree” would be the correct way of writing it, right?
bachelor of arts degree, not Bachelor of Arts degree
What should be capitalized?
“She received her b.a. degree in art, with a concentration in painting and special studies in old masters’ reproductions” ?
There are so many options regarding capitalization with degrees. Yours is correct; however, the most common method may be as follows:
She received her BA degree in art, with a concentration in painting and special studies in Old Masters’ Reproductions.
I capitalized the last bit because of its specificity.
Isn’t it redundant to say “master’s of arts degree”? A master’s of arts is a degree; there should be no need to say ‘degree’ after it.
Master of arts is a phrasal adjective describing the word degree, so we do not consider it redundant. The use of master of arts without the word degree is just a shortened form. Either one is grammatically correct. On a resume, it would be preferable to write master of arts or master’s degree. Note that the apostrophe s is not used with master of arts or bachelor of arts, but is used with master’s degree and bachelor’s degree.
Can “Master of Art” also be viewed as a noun phrase?
You could write “He is a master of art” meaning “He is an artist of great and exemplary skill.” The term “master of art” here is a noun phrase and is not capitalized. You could also write “master of arts” without the word degree and it would be a noun phrase rather than an adjective. Example:
He earned his master of arts at Northwestern.
I just love this stuff. My idea of pleasure reading. I’m an English teacher and always wonder about this stuff. It’s so fluid.
We are so glad you enjoy it!
Thank you so very much for providing this information on the internet.
Robin
You’re very welcome, Robin.
I just finished another program.
Am I now a “B.A., J.D., CPht, M.S.”….are the degrees by chronological order or ranked by level of study accomplished?
Grammatically speaking, there is no preferred order. In general, degrees are listed in the order in which they were earned, which usually corresponds with increased academic level. In some cases it is customary to leave out earlier degrees, and in some cases people choose to omit lower-level degrees. It’s up to you.
Wondering if there is a specific rule for referring to a masters (apostrophe or no) – as in earned her masters in nursing. Thanks for your help.
According to the AP Stylebook, “Use an apostrophe in bachelor’s degree, a master’s, etc., but there is no possessive in bachelor of arts or master of science.”
What is the proper form for doctor’s degrees? Is their area of expertise capitalized? Please advise what should be caps in this paragraph: “He is board certified in Internal Medicine and board eligible in medical oncology. Dr. Doe practices general medical oncology and hematology, but has a particular clinical and research interest in lung cancer. Having helped establish and direct our multi-disiplinary lung cancer clinic.”
Is there a website or other form of reference materiall I can refer to in the future.
Thanks for your help.
Since this is such a specialized area, we will defer to The Chicago Manual of Style which recommends, “The following paragraphs offer only the most general guidelines. Medical writers or editors should consult the AMA Manual of Style or Scientific Style and Format.
Names of diseases, syndromes, diagnostic procedures, anatomical parts, and the like are lowercased, except for proper names forming part of the term. Acronyms and initialisms are capitalized.
The full names of institutions, groups, and companies and the names of their departments, and often the shortened forms of such names (e.g., the Art Institute), are capitalized.”
Regarding degrees, “Spelled-out terms, often capitalized in institutional settings (and on business cards and other promotional items), should be lowercased in normal prose.”
You do not indicate whether this paragraph is for an institutional setting or normal prose. If it is normal prose, only the doctor’s name and the names of any specific departments would be capitalized. If this is for an institutional setting, the specializations could also be capitalized, but not the diseases.
Very interesting read. I am still confused though in some areas. For sentences that I would appreciate help on are:
She has completed several programs that include computer analyst programmer and business adminstration.
She holds a computer technology certificate and a masters certificate in project management.
She is currently pursuing her master of business administration.
She holds a bachelor of science degree and has completed programs related to information technology management.
Since The Chicago Manual of Style recommends writing academic degrees in lower case, except when using the degree as a title, your sentences are correct without the capitalization. Also, master’s certificate should have an apostrophe and please note the spelling of administration.
Do I say: “I will pursue a Master of Science in International Politics” or “Master’s of Science…”
And, how about: “I will work towards a Master of Philisophy/Doctor of Philosophy in War Studies” OR a “Master’s of Philosophy/Doctorate of Philosophy…”? (in the British system an MPhil is upgraded to a PhD).
I’m writing applications and really need to make sure this is correct! Thanks!
The Chicago Manual of Style says, “Names of degrees, fellowships, and the like are lowercased when referred to generically:
a master’s degree; a doctorate; a fellowship; master of business administration (MBA) Therefore, “master of science” or “master’s degree in science” would be grammatically correct as well as “master of philosophy” or “master’s in philosophy.”
So then when the discipline follows it, all remains lower case? As in, “he earned a master of science in biotechnology at the…”
What about if it is a program title, then I can capitalize, right? For example, “He was accepted into the Master of Science in Biotechnology Program.”
Thanks for your feedback. Great site!
Yes, you are correct. Most specific programs and course titles tend to be capitalized.
Is the capitalization in this sentence correct? Even though I’ve read to not capitalize degree titles in AP style, it seems odd for them to be lowercase.
Katie studied journalism at the University of Memphis and graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts with emphasis in public relations.
Degree titles are often capitalized in institutional settings (and on business cards and other promotional items); however, they should be lowercase in normal prose.
Isn’t it redundant to follow up many of these terms with “degree?” I would prefer to see “I earned a bachelor of science” to “I earned a bachelor of science degree,” but which is correct?
Bachelor of science is a phrasal adjective describing the word degree, so we do not consider it redundant. The use of “bachelor of science” without the word degree is just a shortened form. Either one is grammatically correct.
For new hires–are their degrees capitalized in the body of the announcement? Or, if everything lowercase?
Thank you,
Our blog Capitalization of Academic Degrees addresses this by citing other authoritative references. The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) recommends writing academic degrees in lowercase, except when using the degree as a title. The Associated Press Stylebook recommends using lowercase when referring to degrees in general but capitalizing when they follow a name. My recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent.
Juan Perez, bachelor of science OR
Juan Perez, Bachelor of Science
CMOS advises that academic degrees be capitalized when used in lists
Our new marketing team includes:
Lane Bridges, Bachelor of Science
Carol Hudson, Bachelor of Arts
Juan Perez, Bachelor of Science
Justin Weber, Master of Business Administration
Quick question – if all surrounding text is in caps, would you cap all the letters of Ph.D. or not?
JANE DOE, PH.D. OR JANE DOE, Ph.D.
It is not a sound policy for text to be in all caps unless it is a military, police, Coast Guard, or National Weather Service bulletin, or you are sending a telegram. By definition “all caps” means all capital letters.
Regarding the question above: if the individual’s name is in all capital letters, do you capitalize the degree or not? I am listing a speaker’s name on an invitation. Which of the following versions is correct when printing an invitation or social media post announcing the speaker for an event:
JANE DOE, PH.D. OR JANE DOE, Ph.D.
Thank you!
As we indicated, we do not recommend writing names in all capital letters; however, invitations do not always follow standard rules of capitalization and punctuation. Your style preference can determine which treatment you use.
I have a Bachelor degree in Industrial Engineer and a Masters degree in Environmental Management but I’m not really sure how to specify my titles when writing my name?
should it be: Eng…Name…… MEM ?
or
Name……, Eng. MEM
Our blog Capitalization of Academic Degrees addresses this. The Chicago Manual of Style recommends writing academic degrees in lowercase except when using the degree as a title. The Associated Press Stylebook recommends using lowercase when referring to degrees in general but capitalizing when they follow a name. Both stylebooks agree that abbreviations of academic degrees are to be capitalized. Also, the degrees would be capitalized if appearing on a resume or in a list. Our recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent.
Willie Smith, BS, MS
Willie Smith, BS, Industrial Engineering; MS, Environmental Management OR
Willie Smith, BS, industrial engineering; MS, environmental management
Willie Smith, bachelor of science in industrial engineering; master of science in environmental management OR
Willie Smith, Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering; Master of Science in Environmental Management
I am confused about this usage, How the order of academic degree should be written with a person’s name?
Dr. Bill B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
or
Dr. Bill Ph.D., M.S., B.S.
Which usage is correct ?
Grammatically speaking, there is no preferred order. Usually, degrees are listed in the order in which they were earned, which generally corresponds with increased academic level. Some people choose to omit earlier degrees.
Dr. Bill, B.S., M.S., Ph.D.
she received her BA in politics at Hendrix College
or
she received her BA in Politics at… ??
The Chicago Manual of Style says, “Names of degrees, fellowships, and the like are lowercased when referred to generically.”
She received her BA in politics at Hendrix College.
The position title is capitalized within the body of a job announcement. If I apply the ego rule, repeat its “error,” and capitalize the job position in my cover letter, how do treat the other job titles I mention later in the same letter (previous positions held)? It’s my inclination to leave those titles lowercase in running text, but I’m concerned about consistency.
Thanks for a very helpful Web site!
We agree it would be more consistent to capitalize your previous positions held. If you use lowercase, the people reading your cover letter might interpret your previous positions as less important than the one announced. Will they look favorably on that or not? It is your call.
I have a question regarding how to write degrees for a wedding announcement. Should it read he received both an Associates and Bachelor of Science in Nursing. He also received a Master of Science in Nursing and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Nursing.
Unless the groom is insisting on listing his entire academic history, generally the highest degree earned is sufficient, especially since his degrees are all in the same field of study. Since you are not using the degrees as part of a title, do not capitalize:
He received a master of science degree in nursing and is currently pursuing a doctorate in nursing.
I’m writing my resume and wanted to stick with AP Style.
When using my degree as a title, is it okay to capitalize degrees in AP Style?
For example, “Dual Bachelors of Arts, public relations & journalism”
Yes, AP Style does say to capitalize academic degrees. Do not capitalize the word “dual” unless it is the first word of a sentence. Also, use the word and rather than an ampersand (&) in formal writing, especially on a resume.
dual Bachelors of Arts, public relations and journalism
I also can’t find anything that truely clears up communication and communications…
The company I want to apply for adds “S”. But in a resume and using AP Style, what is correct?
Objective:
Pursuing an opportunity with (ABC Company) to build strong relationships with external and internal audiences through the marketing communication (company used communication(s))specialist position
Education:
Associates Degree, communication(or communication(s))
or
Associates Degree, Communication(s)
AP Stylebook says, “The AP spelling would be guided by the specific college degree, business name or professional title. So the word could be singular for some cases, plural for others.” We recommend using the s if the company uses it and listing your degree the way your college spells it. You can either write associate of arts or associate degree. We think associate of arts looks better on a resume. The major or program name should be lowercase.
Associate of arts, communication(s)
I’m making a survey of sorts and asking people about their academic degrees. However, I’ve found somewhat conflicting information about the grammar. Are associate and doctorate followed by “degree” or not? Should they have an apostrophe or not?
Academic Degrees (check all that apply)
Associate Degree (Ex. AA, AS)
Bachelor’s Degree (Ex. BA, BS, AB)
Master’s Degree (Ex. MA, MS, MEd, MPH)
Doctorate Degree (Ex. PhD, EdD, MD, JD)
The word degree does not follow doctorate. It can in the case of the three others. Associate degree and doctorate have no apostrophes. Both bachelor’s degree and master’s degree do. Also, since they are used generically, you do not need to capitalize the words, just the abbreviations.
academic degrees (check all that apply)
associate degree (Ex. AA, AS)
bachelor’s degree (Ex. BA, BS, AB)
master’s degree (Ex. MA, MS, MEd, MPH)
doctorate (Ex. PhD, EdD, MD, JD)
When referring to a specific university in a sentence, Boston University for example would the sentence say: “While at the University golf course you were found in violation of speeding on a golf cart.” Or would university be lower case?
Our blog Capitalization of Governmental Words addresses this dilemma. The rule says, “When you refer back to a proper noun using a shortened version of the original name, you may capitalize it.”
I was wondering if the following is correct when capitalizing certain words (degrees and kindergarten teacher). Here is the beginning of my letter of intent for an elementary teacher position.
I am interested in applying for the elementary teacher position at ______ Elementary School. Your opening for an elementary school teacher relates directly to my experience teaching K-6 grade school level in the ____ Elementary School District. I am highly qualified having earned a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential with CLAD and a Supplementary Subject Matter credential in Introductory English K-9. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and a Master of Arts in Education from Azusa Pacific University.
For the 2011-2012 school year, I was a temporary contracted kindergarten teacher at _______ Elementary.
Thank you for your help!
Our blog Capitalization of Academic Degrees says, “The Chicago Manual of Style recommends writing academic degrees in lower case, except when using the degree as a title.” Also, we agree with lower case for “kindergarten teacher.”
I’m currently formatting my resume, and I’m wondering how to list my degree and majors according to Chicago style. I double majored like one of the other posters above, and I’m struggling to find the best/most accurate way to convey this information.
I started with
Bachelor of Arts, English and history, May XXXX
Then I switched to
Bachelor of Arts, English and History, May XXXX
I fret that the first example looks odd and/or inconsistent because of the lowercased “history,” and might draw attention to itself for the wrong reasons. But the second example kind of looks like I majored in a singular field of study called “English and History.”
Would you be so kind as to help me out with this one? Thank you!
The Chicago Manual of Style’s Rule 8.84 says, “Academic subjects are not capitalized unless they form part of a department name or an official course name or are themselves proper nouns (e.g., English, Latin).” CMOS does advise that academic degrees be capitalized when used in lists or when displayed on a resume, however, CMOS does not specifically address academic majors on lists or resumes. In the case of a resume, you could interpret “academic degree” as including the major and capitalize both the degree and the major on a resume.
Other possibilities for listing your degrees could be:
Bachelor of Arts, English, May XXXX
Bachelor of Arts, History, May XXXX
OR
Bachelor of Arts in both English and History, May XXXX
Just wondering how to handle degree abbreviations when the name appears in ALL CAPS, as would be the case if a name appears in a section title or book title. Specifically I’m wondering which of the following is the best option:
JOHN DOE, PHD
JOHN DOE, PH.D
JOHN DOE, PhD
JOHN DOE, Ph.D
We would stick with the standard abbreviation PhD. A more conservative practice would be to include the periods: Ph.D.
Would it be correct to write Doctorate’s Degree for one with a PhD?
The word degree does not follow the word doctorate. It is simply written as a doctorate.
This is an argument I find myself in all the time. I cannot seem to understand what AP suggests. In the following sentence, I don’t think corporate communications and management should be capitalized because they are just concentrations, not the title of the degree. Or maybe they are and should be capitalized? So confusing!!!
She graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2008 with a BA in English for corporate communications and management.
Since you specifically asked about the Associated Press Stylebook’s rule, their advice reads,”The specialty is lowercase unless it’s a proper noun: bachelor’s degree in French history, master’s degree in natural resources, doctorate in English literature.”
She graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2008 with a BA in English in corporate communications and management.
I frequently have to write descriptive bios for young professionals who want to emphasize their academic honors. Is it correct to write: “She earned her BS, magna cum laude, in history…”? Or perhaps, “She earned her BS in history, magna cum laude,…” Or is there another, better way to express this? I have searched high and low and cannot find a recommendation on this in any of my reference books. Thanks.
Grammatically speaking, either option is correct; however, we think it makes more sense to keep the name of the degree with the major. Therefore, we recommend writing “She earned her BS in history, magna cum laude.”
Should I capitalize anything here (aside from the first word and the names of the schools?
She received her art education certification from State University and her yoga teaching certification from Yoga University.
No other capitalization is necessary.
I’m looking for information not on academic degrees but on certificates and licenses issued by the State of California. This is for state regulations, but unfortunately the State offers no guidelines. We issue various certificates (Certified Phelbotomy Technician I and II, Medical Laboratory Technician, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, etc.) Should these titles be capitalized? Below are two examples:
1. (b) To be certified as a Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, a person shall meet the following requirements:
2. (i) Under the supervision of a physician and surgeon licensed under Chapter 5, physician assistant licensed under Chapter 7.7, clinical laboratory bioanalyst or clinical laboratory scientist licensed under Chapter 3, registered nurse licensed under Chapter 6, or certified phlebotomy technician with three years of experience in the previous five years;
I would like to capitalize in the first example, but not in the second, but I need firm grammatical ground on which to stand. Could you offer any?
Thanks.
The style manuals do not specifically address certificates and licenses. The Chicago Manual of Style‘s rule 8.28 says, “Names of degrees, fellowships, and the like are lowercased when referred to generically.” However, they do state in their Q&A section, “Cap a degree on a résumé, business card, or diploma, in an alumni directory, or wherever it looks like a title rather than a description of what degree you have. Lowercase it in running text. You can’t go too far wrong with this if you’re consistent within a given document.” Since certified phlebotomy technician, medical laboratory technician, and clinical laboratory scientist look more like titles and the printed certificates might be considered similar to diplomas, you could have an argument to capitalize them. The most important thing is to be consistent.
Thanks so much for the references. And thanks for a great website!
You are welcome.
I find a contradiction in the following two examples:
He introduced Jennifer Miller, master of fine arts.
He introduced Orlando Cruz, Bachelor of Science.
Could you please clarify? Thank you.
Your first example sentence is given in regard to the statement “The Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS) recommends writing academic degrees in lower case, except when using the degree as a title.”
He introduced Jennifer Miller, master of fine arts.
The second example sentence pertains to “The Associated Press Stylebook recommends using lower case when referring to degrees in general but capitalizing when they follow a name.”
He introduced Orlando Cruz, Bachelor of Science.
The style manuals have different rules. As we stated above, our recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent.
I am still a little confused on capitalization. Would this grammar be correct? I am not sure if subject matter should be capitalized or not.
Ms. Rittenhouse holds a bachelor of science degree in Environmental and Natural Resources Policy Studies from Michigan State University and a master of public administration degree from the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs, University of Texas-Austin.
We recommend not capitalizing “environmental and natural resources policy studies.”
What if you are writing to say “Graduated with Honors in Litigation.” Or is it better to write “Graduate Cum laude with a concentration in litigation? Even though cun laude can not be italicized.
Because it is a Latin phrase, cum laude should appear in italicized lowercase letters. Therefore, if you cannot italicize cum laude, it might be better to write “graduated with honors in litigation.”
Is there any usage of associate’s degree or associates degree that is correct or are these just a frequent errors people make?
The Chicago Manual of Style recommends either “associate degree” or “associate’s degree.” Educational institutions are inconsistent regarding this term and both are widely used.
LOVE this page! Thanks so much for providing this reference.
I am working on job descriptions, and we start out the Education section with something like this:
“Bachelor degree/Technical School”
Should I use “Bachelor’s” instead?
Also, should the words “Technical School” be capitalized or should they be lower-case?
Thanks in advance for your help.
Thank you for the compliment. The Associated Press Stylebook recommends bachelor’s degree. Since the terms bachelor’s degree and technical school are not part of a name or a list, they do not need to be capitalized; however, such terms are often capitalized in institutional settings, especially in promotional materials.
How about the capitalization of Degrees and Name in plaque??
Should I capitalize all of the name including the degrees??
such ASSOC. PROF. GIRRA MARTINDA, M.B.A or Assoc. Prof. GIRRA MARTINDA, M.B.A.
Thanks in advance for your help??
The Chicago Manual of Style says, “Display items like plaques support a number of treatments, none of which is the only correct choice. You should make your decision and strive for consistency within the plaque.”
This has been very helpful! Perhaps you can help me understand how to properly punctuate the credentials for a board-certified physician assistant. Would the correct punctuation be:
CMOS Style –> PA-C
AP Style –> P.A.-C
Yes, that is correct. The Chicago Manual of Style advises against the use of periods with abbreviations that appear in full capitals and AP Stylebook recommends using periods in most two-letter abbreviations.
Do I capitalize nursing in the following sentences:
I intend to major in nursing.
I have chosen nursing as a major.
Do not capitalize the word nursing in either sentence.
I just received a Master’s of Science in Counseling: Applied Behavioral Science degree. Even my university couldn’t tell me if I should use MS or MSC or something else to identify my credentials. Can you tell me what I should use, and how it should look after my name? Th anks!
The style manuals do not offer any specific recommendations for the abbreviation of your credentials. In addition, the style guides do not agree on how to form abbreviations for degrees. The Associated Press Stylebook uses periods, and The Chicago Manual of Style does not recommend the use of periods in the abbreviation.
I am have a similar issue. I obtained my bachelor’s of arts in applied behavioral science and I have no clue how to list this on a signature line following my name also how is it listed on a resumé. Presently I have it listed on my resumé as:
Bachelors of Art in Applied Behavioral Science-September 2013
Is this correct?
Also is this how it would be written as a title
NAME,BA,Applied Behavioral Science
Since there is no agreement among the leading style manuals, we recommend being consistent in your use of capitalization when writing your degree. The Associated Press Stylebook recommends capitalizing a degree specialty on a resume only if it’s a proper noun (Bachelor of Arts in applied behavioral science, Bachelor of Arts in English). The Chicago Manual of Style recommends capitalizing degrees on business cards, on diplomas, or when displayed in a directory or resume, but placing them in lowercase in running text. Therefore, you may write “Bachelor of Arts (or BA or B.A.), Applied Behavioral Science” on your resume, business cards, or signature block if you wish. However, in generic, running text we recommend lowercase; for example, “I received my bachelor’s degree in applied behavioral science in 2013.”
What is this correct? In 2011, she graduated with a bachelor degree in clinical exercise physiology. In 2014, she graduated from The University of Mississippi Medical Center with a master of occupational therapy?
Should it be bachelor’s degree in clinical exercise physiology instead?
Should it be Master of Occupational Therapy?
Just curious about the capitalization and the apostrophes with the degrees?
In 2011, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in clinical exercise physiology.
In 2014, she graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center with a master’s in occupational therapy.
Is the following correct?
#1) “Lisa holds a bachelor in computer science degree and a MBA.”
#2) Is it correct to write “John holds a MBBS degree…” or does the abbreviation need to be written out?
Please let me know, thanks.
In your first sentence we would write “… and an MBA.” In your second sentence we would write “John holds an MBBS degree …” We assume the abbreviations would be spoken as written; otherwise you’d be better off writing them out.
I visit your site frequently and always find helpful advice to guide me when producing and editing documents for work in the higher education sector and in my postgraduate studies. Thanks so much!
Can you tell me if the following sentence below follows the Associated Press Stylebook guidelines? Thanks!
Scott holds a Master’s Degree in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Affairs from The George Washington University.
AP Stylebook does not capitalize the terms “master’s degree” or “bachelor’s degree.” AP spells academic departments and programs in lowercase except for words that are proper nouns or adjectives or when the department name is part of the official and formal name preceded by the university or college. Therefore, write “Scott holds a master’s degree in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University and a bachelor’s degree in international affairs from the George Washington University.”
What would I put in my Journalism article:
… and then will continue with the Accelerated Master’s Program for social work…
or
… and then will continue with the accelerated master’s program for social work…
We recommend “accelerated master’s program for social work.”
What is the right way to write your qualification in a CV?
Bachelor in Computer Science
B.Sc of Computer Science
B.S of Computer Science
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science?
Thank you.
There may not be one “right way” to do it. The Chicago Manual of Style advises “Capitalize degrees on business cards, on diplomas, or when displayed in a directory or résumé [CV].” We prefer to minimize capitalization. Bachelor of Science in computer science or bachelor of science in computer science are options.
If I am writing content for a website and I want to say “Hunter College offers two Master’s programs: a MA in Psychology and a MA in Animal Behavior and Conservation (ABC).”
Is “Hunter College offers two Master’s programs”correct? Master’s does precede the title of two degrees.
The word master’s is an adjective describing the noun programs. It does not need to be capitalized. The Chicago Manual of Style recommends lowercase for the specific program names. Either omit the article or use the article an before MA.
“Hunter College offers two master’s programs: MA in psychology and MA in animal behavior and conservation (ABC).” OR
“Hunter College offers two master’s programs: an MA in psychology and an MA in animal behavior and conservation (ABC).”
I would like to ask if this sentence is correct: “I am a registered nurse and a registered professional teacher major in bioscience.” Should I capitalize registered nurse and registered professional teacher? Thank you.
Lowercase is fine. We recommend that you rewrite your sentence to read “with a major in bioscience.” Also, in American English we usually say “certified teacher” rather than “registered teacher.”
So, would saying:
“I am a senior in the department of communications with a concentration in journalism and citizens media” be correct? or would Department of Communications be written as such?
Thanks
As we mention in our section Capitalization Rules, there are many gray areas and exceptions. We favor all lowercase in your example, but if your academic institution always capitalizes Department of Communications, then you may wish to follow that example.
Writing a thank you to an alumni.
How do I reference liberal arts education?
Is it ” a Liberal Arts education” or ” a liberal arts education”?
Thanks,
We recommend “a liberal-arts education.”
So just to confirm, the following is correct:
bachelor’s degree in business administration
If you are following the rules of the Chicago Manual of Style, and the academic degree does not directly precede or follow a name, it is generally correct. Example: I am working on my bachelor’s degree in business administration.
As the post indicates, there are exceptions. Degrees are often capitalized on business cards, on diplomas, in promotional material, or when displayed in a directory or resume. If you are following the rules of the Associated Press Stylebook, the degree is capitalized.
Which is the correct way of writing the degree on an approval sheet (a page on a thesis book)?
Master of Arts in Theology, major in Pastoral Ministry or Master of Arts in Theology, Major in Pastoral Ministry
whether to write the word Major (with capital M) or major (lower case m).
thanks
According to the Chicago Manual of Style there should be no capitals in the degrees listed. Do not capitalize the word major.
So for a business card or name plate in ALL CAPS
Which is correct?
FIRSTNAME LASTNAME, ED.D. OR
FIRSTNAME LASTNAME, Ed.D
We prefer Ed.D. Note too that the title Ed.D. contains two periods.
When is it correct to use “degree” after the proper name? For instance, “John earned his Master of Science in 1975” or “…earned a Master of Science degree…?” AP’s rule seems to infer that no “degree” is needed with the proper name since it is a noun and not an adjective. Is that correct?
“A master’s degree” or “master’s” is acceptable, usually with the specialty.
Is it correct to say, associate degree or associate’s degree; or Associate degree or Associate’s degree. I know it is not associates degree or Associates degree. Also, I never use the apostrophe in associate and I am being told I am not correct, nor do I capitalized “associate” unless I write the complete title of the degree such as…Associate of Arts in Business Administration. What is correct way to write associate degree? Thanks!
The Chicago Manual of Style finds either “associate degree” or “associate’s degree” to be reasonable and logical, while The Associated Press Stylebook prefers “associate degree.” Educational institutions are inconsistent regarding this term and both are widely used. We recommend that you simply be consistent once you decide on one or the other. When used generically, there is no need to capitalize.
Is this correct?
He earned bachelor of arts degree from ABC University with majors in Math and French. (It is a double-major, not double degree).
We recommend adding the article a before the term bachelor of arts degree. Majors do not require capitalization unless they are themselves a proper noun.
He earned a bachelor of arts degree from ABC University with majors in math and French.
I have a bachelor of arts degree in journalism. While earning my degree, and for many years after graduating, the A.P. Stylebook was considered the only source of style for journalists. I realize there are now other sources, and that these sources occasionally conflict with each other, so I have a question in reference to an earlier post. Isn’t it redundant to use both a title and degree: “Dr. John Doe, Ph.D” or “Dr. Bill Smith, M.D”?
Thank you very much, and I’m delighted to have discovered your website!
The Chicago Manual of Style is in agreement that social titles are to be omitted when an academic degree or professional designation follows the name.
We too are delighted that you have discovered our website.
If I am talking about a fellow associate (Should associate be capitalized?).
When used to mean “a colleague,” the word associate is not a degree or title. Do not capitalize.
Is the below correct??
Lee graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 2005 with a bachelor of arts degree in sociology and a commission in the U.S. Army. An active member of the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity since 2006, he also earned a master’s degree in management in 2009.
Yes.
Which is the preferred punctuation for these titles?
M.D., MACP
MD, MACP
M.D., M.A.C.P.
There is no definitive answer to your question.
The Chicago Manual of Style says, “Use no periods with abbreviations that appear in full capitals, whether two letters or more and even if lowercase letters appear within the abbreviation.” Examples include MD and PhD.
However, the Associated Press Stylebook says:
Use periods in most two-letter abbreviations: U.S., U.N., U.K., B.A., B.C.
Use all caps, but no periods, in longer abbreviations when the individual letters are pronounced: ABC, CIA, FBI
In cases like these, we recommend choosing your method and staying consistent.
I need your help, please! In my bio section of my website I wrote this….
“…she moved back to New Jersey and received her master’s in fine arts at Montclair State University….”
I feel like this is incorrect. Please advice…..or advise? Oh man! Not another one!
The excerpt from the bio is fine. If you are seeking advice, write “Please advise.”
Which one is correct?
Dr. Ross or Dr Ross
The abbreviation of Doctor is with period or w/o ?
Thanks.
In American English we use a period.
I saw this mentioned in another comment, but I am still confused. If I want to list board certification for a medical specialty should it be lower case? Specifically, I would like to use it in a cover letter and will write it in a sentence (I am board certified in neurology and pediatric neurology). From what I understand, it should be lower case in this setting, but I am wondering if the reader may consider it to be a title and think it should be capitalized.
board certified in neurology and pediatric neurology
board certified in Neurology and Pediatric Neurology
Board Certified in Neurology and Pediatric Neurology
We recommend “board certified in neurology and pediatric neurology.”
Please clarify if correct:
Sue holds both a bachelor of business administration and a master of accounting degree from the University of Michigan.
Your sentence is correct.
Enjoyed this as always. One quick question, if it’s ok. You refer to CMOS and AP style guides but not MLA. There must be a reason that I’m not aware of. Just curious.
MLA is a fine style guide as well. We simply didn’t want to burden the article with a comparison of all the different points of view—two were enough to demonstrate that there are different approaches out there to choose from. We usually find that AP and CMOS sufficiently cover the ground, but people should use the style guides that best apply to the areas in which they are working or studying.
I quickly scanned the long list of questions and perhaps missed the answer to this question: If I list diploma and degrees in a questionnaire, do I capitalize them or not?
High School Diploma vs High school diploma va High School diploma
Associate’s Degree vs Associate’s degree
Thanks in advance for any help!
We recommend no capitalization when referring to degrees, diplomas, and the like when referred to generically. However, preparing resumés or answering questionnaires can fall outside guidelines for formal writing and become a matter of personal preference.
Thanks this is very helpful. I’m a master student first year, specialized in applied linguistics. Is the last sentence correct concerning capitalisation.
Your capitalization is correct.
I see both of the following and would like to know which is correct: “Associate’s Degree” vs. “Associate Degree” and “Bachelor’s Degree” vs. “Bachelor Degree.”
Thanks!
Please see our November 28, 2013, reply to Melissa Bailey and our June 21, 2016, response to DEJ.
I am writing a cover letter for a job application. “I recently received my Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies with a concentration in Globalization and Sustainable Development and a minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies” Please let me know the correct way to write this specifically for a cover letter. Thank you!
As the post states, our recommendation is to pick your resource and then be consistent. The following are acceptable:
“I recently received my bachelor of arts in global studies with a concentration in globalization and sustainable development and a minor in environmental and sustainability studies.” OR
“I recently received my Bachelor of Arts in global studies with a concentration in globalization and sustainable development and a minor in environmental and sustainability studies.”
What about “She graduated with an honors degree”? Should it be “She graduated with an Honors degree”?
We see no reason to capitalize “honors degree.”
You offer “He introduced Jennifer Miller, Master of Fine Arts.” as an example of correct capitalization according to the CMOS. But as far as I can tell, the CMOS only recommends capitalizing job titles, degrees, military ranks, etc. in a sentence when the title precedes the name (e.g., President Jones; Master of Fine Arts Jennifer Miller). If I understand correctly, “Jennifer Miller, Master of Fine Arts” would only ever be correct if it was being used formally, e.g., in a signature, on a diploma, or on an event program where Jennifer is listed as a speaker. Can you provide some clarification?
That’s a good observation. As we mention in the article, capitalization (and especially capitalization of academic degrees) is a thorny area, open to interpretation. In CMOS’s online Q&A area, as well as in section 8.29, we see “Chicago style is to lowercase the degree (including the field) in running text and whenever it’s used generically. Generic uses often are introduced by ‘a’ or ‘the’ or ‘his.’ Capitalize the name of a degree when it is displayed on a resume, business card, diploma, alumni directory, or anywhere it looks like a title rather than a description. [emphasis added] You can’t go too far wrong with this if you’re consistent within a given document.”
If you were to choose not to capitalize the academic degree in this case, you would not necessarily be “wrong”; consistency is the key.
How do you write BA with distinction or with honors/honours vs cum laude? What do you capitalize/italicize? Distinction? Honors?
It is not necessary to capitalize. Because it is a Latin phrase, cum laude should be italicized.
BA with distinction
BA with honors
BA cum laude
Mike holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Sue holds a doctorate, and Valerie holds a masters. In your references, you’re saying that “Engineering” should not be capitalized, though it is the name of the degree subject?
An academic subject is not generally capitalized unless it is being used to form part of a department name or an official course name, or the word itself is a proper noun (e.g., English, Spanish). Also, we recommend writing “…and Valerie holds a master’s.”
Why do I see that associate degree is not possessive? Which of the following is correct, as far as capitalization and possessiveness?
1. Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice.
2. Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.
3. Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice.
4. Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an associate degree in Criminal Justice.
The style manuals have different opinions about how to write “associate(‘s) degree.” AP Stylebook says, “associate degree (no possessive)”; Chicago Manual of Style considers “associate degree” and “associate’s degree” acceptable. Neither guide recommends capitalizing the degree when referred to generically. Academic subjects are lowercased.
Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an associate degree in criminal justice. (accepted by both style guides) OR
Jenny grew up in Detroit and obtained an associate’s degree in criminal justice. (accepted by Chicago Manual of Style)
Is this correct?
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Education and a master’s degree in educational leadership.
As the post indicates, if you are following Associated Press Stylebook guidelines, write “I hold a Bachelor of Science in education and a master’s degree in educational leadership.” If you are following Chicago Manual of Style rules, write “I hold a bachelor of science in education and a master’s degree in educational leadership.”
I have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in english literature
Or would it be English Literature?
I have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English literature.
Please help me correct the following
Taylor Dobson obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Professional Studies from Boise State University in 2023
Taylor Dobson obtained an Associate of Science degree in criminal justice from Boise State University in 2015
Taylor Dobson obtained a minor in history from Boise State University in 2023 with an emphasis in sociology.
Taylor Dobson received a Microcredential in emotional intelligence from Boise State University 2023.
Taylor Dobson is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). Certification obtained through Path to Prime, LLC 2023
As the post states, the two leading American English reference books have different rules for capitalization. Therefore, you need to pick a resource to follow and remain consistent. The rules in the area of capitalization of academic degrees of both style manuals are described in this post. Each complete sentence does need an ending period.
So, I have two questions. In the sentence, “Brenda plans to major in Music Education,” is it correct that “music education” is capitalized? Some sources I referred to said yes, while others said no.
Also, when you refer to a Bachelor of Science, is the area of study always written in lowercase letters? But say it was “music education.” Would the sentence read “Brenda received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education”—or would it be “music education”?
As the post states, the field of study should be written in lowercase except when it contains a proper noun. Therefore, “music education” is not capitalized in either of your example sentences.
As explained above, there are two different options for the capitalization of “a bachelor of science.” If following The Chicago Manual of Style, write “a bachelor of science.” AP Stylebook favors “a Bachelor of Science.” We suggest you pick your resource and then be consistent.
Is it “EdD” or “Ed. D.”?
Is it “MS” or “MSc.”?
If you can point me to the reference citation I would appreciate it.
Our post Abbreviating Professional Titles and Academic Degrees lists “M.S. (Master of Science)” as being correct. We were unable to find any specific reference to “EdD” vs. “Ed.D”; however, the Chicago Manual of Style identifies “EdM – educationis magister (master of education).” Therefore, we would recommend “EdD.”
Is it fair that certain academic degrees are given more prestige and importance simply because they are capitalized, while others are not? Should we reconsider the practice of capitalizing degrees to promote equality and eliminate hierarchy in education?
While some styles might vary according to the preference or choice of the source, our capitalization rules apply to all academic degrees equally.