Honours vs Non-Honours Degree

Honours vs Non-Honours Degree: What’s the Difference and Why it Matters

Deciding between an honours and a non-honours degree can be a big part of planning your university education. The distinction between the two is not just about the degree names - it also bears weight in what and how you will learn and how it will affect your future. 

We discuss honours vs non-honours degrees to understand their differences and why they matter in your academic journey. 

What is an honours degree? 

An honours degree may imply different things for different countries. Nevertheless, for most countries, a bachelor's degree with honours is designed to surpass the standards set by the general bachelor's degree. 

An honours degree curriculum demands better academic performance from undergraduate students. As such, students will have to put in greater commitment and dedication towards their education. This degree is tangible evidence of exceptional academic achievement at the undergraduate level.  

Types of honours degree

There are several types of honours degrees, and the following are pathways for students to achieve them according to their personal goals, career aspirations, and preferred study methods. 

Single honours degree

Students who have completed their bachelor's degree may enrol in a standalone honours degree. This is an additional course, usually focusing on a single subject from their undergraduate studies, and as such, major in it exclusively. 

Alternatively, students can opt for a programme combining a few subjects into a single honours degree—for instance, Politics, Philosophy, and Economics. Unlike integrated or embedded honours programmes, a single honours degree demands an extra year of study. 

Combined or joint honours degree

A combined or joint honours degree allows students to study multiple subjects at the undergraduate level independently. It suits those aspiring to specialise in two or even three subjects alongside their primary undergraduate degree. 

This is accomplished by choosing different study modules for each subject that is offered by distinct departments within the university. As a result, each subject contributes to the final grade. 

For instance, if subject modules are chosen from 2 subjects, each subject will contribute 50% to the final grade. In the case of modules being chosen from 3 subjects, each would represent a third of the overall grade. 

Double honours degree

A double honours degree may seem like a lot of work, but achieving it is possible in certain circumstances. 

Students who undertake a double honours degree must complete two separate research papers in distinct academic fields. 

However, this may mean an additional year of study. It can also be quite challenging as students will have to spend a significant amount of time studying and researching. Nonetheless, a dual honours degree can be worth the sacrifices made. 

Degree with honours project

Arguably the most straightforward approach to obtaining an honours degree, this pathway encompasses a standard three-year degree and an additional project or dissertation in the final semester. 

This degree carries a credit value of 360, compared to the conventional credit value of 300 for a bachelor’s degree. 

Four-year degree with honours

A four-year degree with honours allows for in-depth exploration of a chosen specialisation. Students can expect the academic level to advance progressively each year. 

However, despite its demanding nature, this type of honours degree equips students with high-quality research skills, which can be highly advantageous for students aiming for a PhD. 

Moreover, this course will help students to develop many practical and transferable skills, such as: 

• Strategic planning to achieve complex objectives. 

• Independent research abilities.

• Effective communication and presentation skills. 

What is a bachelor’s degree?

A bachelor’s degree is usually the first level of tertiary education received after completing secondary schooling. It encompasses many subjects and fields of study and offers students foundational knowledge and understanding in their chosen discipline. 

Bachelor’s degrees usually take three to four years to complete. However, this can vary based on the country, university, or programme. 

Upon successful completion of the programmes, students are awarded one of the following - a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Law (LLB), or Bachelor of Education (BEd), depending on their chosen field of study. 

Types of Bachelor’s degrees

The following are explanations to differentiate between the types of bachelor’s degrees.

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree focuses on subjects within the social sciences, humanities, liberal arts, or fine arts. Students will be able to explore subjects such as literature, languages, history, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and various art forms. 

BA degrees emphasise critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in communications, journalism, education, social work, and more. 

Explore Bachelor of Arts degree courses offered by the University of Nottingham Malaysia’s (UNM) Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. 

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The Bachelor of Science (BSc) centres on scientific, technical, or mathematical subjects. It encompasses fields like biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, computer science and environmental science. 

BSc degrees focus on empirical knowledge, research methodologies, and practical application. Graduates will develop the skills needed for careers in technology, research, healthcare and various scientific fields. 

Explore Bachelor of Science degree courses offered by UNM’s Faculty of Science and Engineering. 

Bachelor of Law (LLB)

The Bachelor of Law (LLB) is tailored for individuals aspiring to pursue a law career. It covers legal theory, principles, and the foundations of the legal system. This usually includes subjects such as criminal law, contract law, and constitutional law. LLB holders often pursue further studies or practical training to become solicitors or barristers. 

Bachelors of Education (BEd)

A Bachelor of Education (BEd) provides students with the knowledge and skills to become educators or teachers. It includes pedagogical studies, curriculum development, educational psychology, and classroom management techniques. BEd graduates are equipped to teach at primary and secondary educational levels.

Difference between honours and non-honours degree

The main difference between an honours degree and a non-honours bachelor’s degree is the academic level - honours degrees have a higher academic standard. 

Because the level of study required for an honours degree is higher overall, students will develop a deeper understanding of their subjects. Thus, non-honours degrees are usually easier to acquire. 

Whether you incorporate honours within your degree or pursue it after completing your bachelor's degree, an honours degree will involve more exams and prerequisites than a non-honours degree. 

Besides this, because the curriculum of an honours degree is more comprehensive and distinctive, students may have the opportunity to specialise in one or two disciplines. As a result, it can be your stepping stone towards a master’s or doctoral degree by research. 

How is an honours degree graded?

Understanding the grading system is essential for students enrolling in an honours programme. Grading criteria do vary across countries and even across different universities. 

However, at the University of Nottingham Malaysia, the following is the grading of honours degree: 

• 70% and above - First-Class Honours

• 60 to 70% - Upper Second-Class Honours

• 50 to 60% - Lower Second-Class Honours 

• 40 to 50% - Third Class Honours

• Below 40% - Pass degree

• Fail - No degree awarded

Is a degree better with honours better?

This will depend on your personal preferences and ambitions. Opting for an honours degree might suit individuals who thrive in challenging and competitive environments. 

Alternatively, individuals working part-time or with other commitments along with their studies may find pursuing a standard bachelor's degree more suitable. 

Should you take an honours degree?

Although an honours degree demands that students put in the extra effort, it has numerous potential benefits. Consider these advantages of being an honours degree holder:

• The extra work put in helps you develop exceptional research skills and opens doors to the realm of research. 

• Completing an honours degree opens the door for further education at any stage. 

• You will acquire valuable skills such as goal-oriented scheduling and planning. 

• You will have access to networking opportunities with experts in your field of interest. 

• Your work becomes a permanent resource in the university library. This provides a sense of achievement for oneself and serves as research to build upon for future students. 

• You will enjoy a significant advantage in job prospects compared to other applicants. 

How to get an honours degree in Malaysia?

The pathway to achieving an honours classification depends on which university you’re studying at.

In Malaysia, universities offer diverse degrees structured upon educational models from various education systems worldwide.

This includes those from the UK, Australia, and the USA. Thus, in Malaysia, you can find universities exclusively conferring honours degrees and universities that offer both honours and non-honours programmes. 

Institutions, such as the University of Nottingham Malaysia, that exclusively offer honours degrees:

• Are distinguishable by the inclusion of the term ‘Honours’ of ‘Hons’ alongside their degree titles.

• Denote that students who graduate will do so with honours unless their marks fall below the stipulated requirements. 

• Follow the British pattern of awarding degrees, including classifications such as ‘First Class Honours,’ ‘Upper Second Class Honours,’ ‘Lower Second Class Honours,’ and ‘Third Class Honours.’

Universities offering both honours and non-honours degrees: 

• Require an additional year of study after completing their undergraduate studies, which demands extra effort and financial commitment. 

• Focus on a substantial research project and require students to complete a thesis. 

• Require third-year undergraduate students to have exceptional academic performance to qualify for the one-year honours programme. 

Conclusion 

Choosing between an honours and a non-honours degree is important in your education. 

It's not just about the 'Hons' behind your degree name but also about the opportunities and the hard work it involves. 

Understanding the differences between these paths will help you steer your education towards what fits your goals best. 

Whether you aim for the depth of an honours degree or the flexibility of a non-honours programme, understanding the differences will guide you toward an academic journey suitable for your ambitions. 

If you are keen to learn more about your academic pathway and campus life at UNM, a free shuttle bus service is available every Saturday, departing from Future Students Centre, Petaling Jaya to Semenyih. Book your spot at The Notts Express!

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This article aims to give an overview of Malaysia's education system for public understanding. However, it does not cover all aspects of the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM), so readers are encouraged to seek more information if necessary.