Academic Degrees
CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï style is to omit periods from standard academic degree abbreviations (BA, BS, MA, PhD, MBA, JD).
When spelling out degrees, lowercase bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctorate; capitalize formal degree names such as Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science and Juris Doctor. Lowercase degree programs or areas of study, such as history, business management and mechanical engineering.
In running copy, generally describe degrees and areas of study in words rather than using abbreviations. This is especially important when writing for the media or other external audiences.
- Larry Jones, who earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering from CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï in 2012...
University Degree Abbreviations
CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï also maintains abbreviations for specific university degrees (for example, ´¡²õ³Ù°ù´Ç±Ê³ó²â²õ’22).
Use these abbreviations primarily in university communications where the shorthand will be familiar or useful to readers. Do not use CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï-specific degree abbreviations in media materials or communications intended for external audiences. Instead, spell out the degree or area of study and include the graduation year when relevant. Spelling out degrees also makes the information clearer for people using assistive technology.
- Abbreviated: Jane Smith (´¡²õ³Ù°ù´Ç±Ê³ó²â²õ’22)
- Spelled out: Jane Smith, who earned a bachelor’s in astrophysics from CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï in 2022...
When referring to individuals who attended CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï but did not graduate, take care not to imply they earned a degree.
For a complete list of approved CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï degree abbreviations, .