Final answer:
The correct order of academic degrees from least to most advanced is: Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, and Doctoral degree, making the right option (b) 2, 3, 1, 4. To become a psychology professor at a 4-year college, typically a PhD would be required.
Step-by-step explanation:
To place the degrees in order of level of advancement, we start with an Associate's degree which is typically a two-year degree from a community or technical college. Next in the progression is the Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university, followed by the Master's degree which involves postgraduate studies beyond the bachelor's. The highest level of academic advancement is the Doctoral degree, which involves the most extensive study and research.
Therefore, the correct order from least to most advanced is: Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, Doctoral degree. Accordingly, the correct option is (b) 2, 3, 1, 4.
If someone wanted to become a psychology professor at a 4-year college, they would most likely need to attain a PhD in psychology, as this level of academic credential is often required for professorship positions at such institutions.