In what order are the following college degrees typically earned?

The correct order in which college degrees are typically earned is four-year, master's, doctorate. This progression is standard in higher education.

A four-year degree, commonly known as a bachelor's degree, is the foundational degree that most students attain first. It typically requires around four years of full-time study at a college or university and provides essential knowledge and skills in a chosen field. After earning a bachelor's degree, students may choose to pursue a master's degree, which usually requires an additional one to two years of study. A master's program involves advanced coursework and may include research or practical experience.

Lastly, the doctorate is the highest level of academic degree, which generally requires several years of study beyond the master's, including original research and the completion of a dissertation. This sequence is designed to build on the knowledge and skills acquired at each prior level of education, leading to greater specialization and expertise in a field.

Other sequences would not make sense within the context of higher education, as it is unusual to pursue a master's or doctorate degree without first having completed a bachelor's degree.