First-degree refers to the most basic level of a relationship or classification. In legal terms, it often describes the most serious type of crime, such as first-degree murder, which involves intentional killing with premeditation. This classification indicates a higher degree of culpability compared to lesser degrees of the same crime. In education, first-degree can refer to an undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor's degree. This is typically the first level of higher education that students pursue after completing secondary school. It usually requires a specific number of credits and can take three to four years to complete, depending on the program and institution.