What is the difference between a professional degree and a graduate degree in the United States?

A professional degree is an academic degree that is awarded to students who complete a program that is designed to prepare them for a specific profession. These degrees are typically offered in fields such as law, medicine, pharmacy, engineering, and education, among others. Professional degree programs are often highly specialized and typically require a significant amount of hands-on training and practical experience in addition to traditional coursework.

A graduate degree, on the other hand, is an academic degree that is awarded to students who have completed a program of study beyond the undergraduate level. Graduate degrees are generally more broad-based and focused on research and advanced study in a particular field. They are often designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, or other specialized areas.

Overall, the main difference between a professional degree and a graduate degree is the focus of the program. Professional degree programs are designed to prepare students for a specific profession, while graduate degree programs are focused on advanced study and research in a particular field.