U.S. Education Level Vocabulary This vocabulary defines education levels for pre-kindergarten through grade 12 for the United States. It also defines general categories for post-secondary education (vocational, professional and life-long learning). Stuart A. Sutton 2015-12-15 Pre-K to 12 Elementary School Pre-Kindergarten Preschool Activities and/or experiences that are intended to effect developmental changes in children, from birth to entrance in kindergarten K Kindergarten A program or class for four-year-old to six-year-old children that serves as an introduction to school 1 First Grade 2 Second Grade 3 Third Grade 4 Fourth Grade 5 Fifth Grade Middle School 6 Sixth Grade 7 Seventh Grade 8 Eighth Grade High School 9 Ninth Grade 10 Tenth Grade 11 Eleventh Grade 12 Twelfth Grade Higher Education College Undergraduate (Lower Division) Two Year College Use also for: Public or private postsecondary institutions providing at least 2, but less than 4, years of academic and/or occupational education. Two Year Institution: An institution legally authorized to offer and offering at least a 2-year program of college-level studies which terminates in an associate degree or is principally creditable toward a baccalaureate degree. Undergraduate (Upper Division) Four Year College Study in an institution of higher education that precedes the bachelor's or first professional degree Graduate Provided in graduate schools that generally require a university diploma as a minimum condition for admission Adult Education Adult Education enables adults to (1) become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency, (2) obtain the educational skills necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children, and (3) complete a secondary school education and prepare for postsecondary education. Life-Long Learning A continuing process of behavioral and cognitive changes through the integration of knowledge and experience. Learning is achieved through formal and informal activities. Professional Education & Further Development Provided in professional schools (or sanctioned educational activities) that generally require a university diploma as a minimum condition for admission or study. Vocational Training Provided in schools that focus on teaching vocational skills and frequently require no previous knowledge or experience.