Korean Dictionary
How to say "Degree" in Korean
“Degree” in Korean is 학위 (pronounced "hakwi").
학위
hakwi
Usage & Context
A qualification awarded by a university. Degrees certify completion of a program of study. Bachelor's and master's degrees are common.
Example Sentence
학위를 받았다.
I received a degree.
How to use 학위 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Degree” is 학위, romanized as hakwi.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 학위.
Pronunciation Guide
학위 (hakwi) sounds like 'hock-wee'. 'Hak' rhymes with 'hock' (as in 'hock a loogie'), and 'wi' sounds like 'wee' (as in 'we').
More Example Sentences
Introducing one's academic qualifications in a professional setting.
저는 경영학 학위를 가지고 있어요.
I have a degree in business administration.
Explaining one's academic path and goals.
석사 학위를 따기 위해 대학원에 진학했어요.
I went to graduate school to get a master's degree.
Discussing job requirements or qualifications.
이 직업은 최소 학사 학위가 필요해요.
This job requires at least a bachelor's degree.
Cultural Context
Obtaining a university degree (학위) is highly valued in Korean society, often seen as a prerequisite for good employment and social status. There's a strong emphasis on higher education, and the type and prestige of one's degree can significantly impact career prospects. Phrases like '학사 학위' (bachelor's degree), '석사 학위' (master's degree), and '박사 학위' (doctoral degree) are commonly used.
Editorial note
We review entries like 학위 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
학위를 받다
To receive a degree
학위를 따다
To earn/get a degree
학위 수여식
Degree conferment ceremony
Related Expressions
학사
haksa
Bachelor's degree (often used alone)
석사
seoksa
Master's degree (often used alone)
박사
baksa
Doctoral degree (often used alone)
졸업
jorop
Graduation
More School Life Words
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