A step a student may take (6)

I believe the answer is:

degree

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'a step' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for degree that I've seen before include "displayed by small elevated circle" , "Gradation on a scale" , "Position on a scale" , "sixty minutes" , "The measure of a university award?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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