Understanding the Difference Between Ordinary and Honours Degrees

The distinction between an ordinary degree and an honours degree lies not just in the title, but in the depth and breadth of knowledge acquired, as well as the amount of work invested during the student's academic journey. This article will explore the key differences, providing insights into the definition and perceived value of each type of degree.

What is an Ordinary Degree?

An ordinary degree is awarded to students who have successfully completed the majority of their degree requirements but have perhaps underperformed in one or more of the modules. These degree recipients will receive their qualification, but they may not achieve a classification such as a first, second (upper or lower), or third class honours. Universities or institutions may refer to ordinary degrees by various terms, such as pass degrees or graduate degrees.

For example, at Cambridge University, non-honours degrees are less commonly known. However, students achieving an ordinary degree will have a degree that is still valuable but may be considered less prestigious than an honours degree.

The Requirement for Honours Degrees

To earn an honours degree, students must meet the following academic criteria:

Completion of 120 credits in each academic year. pass multiple modules across different levels (Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3), with the majority of Level 3 modules contributing to the degree classification. Accumulate a total of at least 360 credits by the end of the final year.

Should a student fail one or two modules, they may still achieve 300 credits and complete enough modules to obtain an ordinary degree. This lesser classification would indicate that they have passed a significant amount of the required coursework but have not met the full academic standards for an honours degree.

The Real Differences: Commitment and Workload

The difference between an ordinary and honours degree is most evident in terms of academic commitment and workload. Students pursuing an honours degree must ensure that they cover all required modules, dedicate more time to advanced topics, and remain consistent in their academic performance. This level of dedication is crucial for achieving a higher classification at graduation.

My degree in teaching, for instance, demonstrated that honours degrees can demand an immense level of commitment. In the final year, 80 credits of the course were dedicated to the teaching experience. If these credits were not successfully completed, the student would not reach the 360-credit threshold necessary for an honours degree, let alone an ordinary one.

Employer Perspectives and Academic Standards

When comparing the two degrees from an employer's perspective, one may need to consider the following factors:

Career advancement: Both degrees hold value, but some employers may prefer an honours degree due to the higher level of academic achievement it signifies. However, this can vary greatly based on the company and specific role. Recent graduates: Among recent graduates, honours degrees may be more sought after as they often indicate a higher level of academic commitment and performance. Over time, this distinction may become less significant as both types of degrees offer the necessary academic foundation for success. Masters programs and further education: Students pursuing higher qualifications, such as a master's degree, are often viewed more positively with an honours degree. This indicates a higher level of academic ability and suitability for advanced studies. However, the degree grade itself is also highly relevant for these types of programs.

It's worth noting that in my case, despite facing academic challenges, gaining an honours degree still provided significant value. The commitment and advanced knowledge gained through Level 3 modules were beneficial, especially when considering a career in teaching.

Conclusion

The choice between an ordinary and honours degree depends largely on the student's academic aspirations and the paths they wish to pursue. Both degrees come with their own merits and challenges, and the value placed on each can vary based on the employer, industry, and individual circumstances. Ultimately, both types of degrees represent the academic achievements of the student and can provide a strong foundation for future endeavors.