Bachelor

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Bachelor refers to a person who holds a bachelor's degree from a college or university, which is an undergraduate academic degree awarded by colleges and universities upon completion of a course of study lasting three to seven years (depending on institution and academic discipline). The term is also commonly used to refer to a man who has never been married.

Etymology

The word bachelor comes from the Old French word bachelier, signifying a knight bachelor, who was too young or poor to gather vassals under his own banner. Over time, it was extended to mean a junior member of a guild (otherwise known as a guild apprentice) or university and then generalized to mean "unmarried man" (in the late 14th century).

Academic Use

In the academic context, a bachelor's degree is the first level of higher education in many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It is awarded to students who have completed the requisite number of credits in their chosen field of study. Common types of bachelor's degrees include the Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Engineering (BEng), and Bachelor of Education (BEd), among others.

Requirements

The requirements for a bachelor's degree vary by country and institution but generally involve completing a specified number of credits in a range of subjects, including major-specific courses, electives, and general education requirements. The duration of study typically ranges from three to four years in most countries but can extend to five or more years for certain professional degrees.

Social Use

Socially, the term bachelor is used to refer to men who are unmarried. The stereotypical image of a bachelor is a young man who leads a carefree lifestyle, free from the responsibilities of marriage. However, the reality is that bachelors can be of any age and their reasons for remaining unmarried are varied and personal.

Bachelor Lifestyle

The "bachelor lifestyle" is often characterized by freedom in terms of living arrangements, social engagements, and financial expenditures. This lifestyle may be embraced for various reasons, including personal preference, career focus, or the pursuit of education.

Cultural Representations

The bachelor as a cultural figure has been a subject of interest in literature, film, and television, often depicted as a charming, carefree individual who avoids long-term commitments. However, this representation has evolved over time, with more nuanced portrayals reflecting the complexities of modern relationships and individual choices.

See Also

• Bachelor's degree
• Marriage
• Single person
• Spinster

Bachelor Resources
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