14 Most Common Bachelor of Science Degrees

There are over 2 million bachelor's degree programs offered by colleges in the United States according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Bachelor of Science degrees are available in varied fields such as business, science, technology, engineering, and math.

Some of the most common Bachelor of Science degree programs are business administration, information technology, and psychology.

The Most Common Bachelor of Science Undergraduate Programs

Learn more about the most common Bachelor of Science degree programs below.

1. Chemistry

A Bachelor of Science in chemistry involves a rigorous curriculum that covers scientific processes, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and more.

You must complete most BS in chemistry degree programs on campus. However, there may be hybrid program opportunities that involve some online coursework.

Studies in chemistry consist of lectures and lab courses. Examples of lecture and lab courses include:

• general chemistry
• organic chemistry
• analytical chemistry lab
• physical chemistry lab

2. Computer Science

Many accredited institutions offer an online program to earn your BS in computer science degree. Most courses take about seven to 15 weeks to complete. Example courses include:

• Computer Architecture
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Many computer science degree programs provide opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications such as the Linux certification.

Concentration options may be available for you to focus your degree in an area of interest such as data science or cybersecurity.

3. Business Administration

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration is one of the most common majors in college for a BS degree. It covers economics, finance, management studies, and more.

Several types of business administration degree programs prepare you to step into the professional business industry. Examples of common focus areas in business administration include:

• accounting
• marketing
• management
• information systems

Major in general business administration for more flexibility in your studies. You can also complete your BS in computer science degree online.

4. Finance

You can earn your undergraduate degree in finance online at several accredited universities such as Maryville University, Purdue Global, and Southern New Hampshire University.

Bachelor of Science in finance degrees prepare you for careers in business and finance, two popular demanding markets. Example careers include:

• financial analyst
• personal banker
• financial advisor

Finance studies include courses such as financial and managerial accounting, as well as personal finance, money and banking, and fundamentals of investments.

5. Information Technology

Consider a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology if you have an interest in designing, implementing, or managing computer hardware and software.

Many undergraduate IT degree programs are available in an online format and provide concentration options to focus your degree based on your personal interest and career goal.

Examples of concentration options include cybersecurity, data analytics, and software development. IT degrees are common due to its demanding and growing market.

6. Biology

A BS in biology degree program may be for you if you love science and math. You can earn your undergraduate biology degree online by completing 120 or more credit hours of required courses.

Online biology degree programs often offer areas of emphasis such as biomedical sciences, modern biology, and organismal biology. Example courses include general biology and genetics.

A biology degree may qualify you for many career opportunities like a biologist, biochemist, or research scientist.

7. Engineering

Engineering degrees are popular because there are several focus areas to choose from. The most common undergraduate engineering degrees include:

• electrical engineering
• mechanical engineering
• software engineering

Other examples of bachelor's degrees in engineering include a BS in civil engineering or industrial engineering technology degree.

You may be able to find online courses or a few completely online programs to earn a BS in engineering, but most engineering degrees require on campus classes.

8. Psychology

According to the American Psychological Association, psychology is among the most common Bachelor of Science degrees in undergraduate colleges.

Undergraduate psychology degree programs teach you how to understand the human mind and prepare you for an entry level career such as a case manager or family advocate.

BS in psychology degree programs include courses like child and adolescent psychology, criminal psychology and behavior, and experimental psychology.

9. Human Resources

Finding and maintaining human resources is important to continuous operational success and is one reason BS in human resources degrees are so common.

Most online degrees in human resources award a BS in human resource management degree. Human resource management degrees cover policy management and more. Other study areas may include:

• labor relations
• organizational communication
• change management in human resources

Undergraduate human resource degrees take about three to four years to complete depending on transfer credits and more.

10. Mathematics

Many adults who enjoy math and seek a STEM career may want to pursue a mathematics major in college.

A mathematics major often offers specialization options. For example, you could specialize in one of the following:

• computer programming
• data science
• secondary education

Course requirements typically cover calculus, linear algebra, mathematical statistics, probability, and more.

You can earn your mathematics degree at many accredited colleges for about $540 per credit hour or less.

11. Information Systems

There are several common types of information systems degrees. For example, you can earn an online BS in information systems management for designing and managing systems.

You can also pursue an online BS degree in computer information systems and learn IT core competencies and focus on specific areas such as IT infrastructure and software development.

Other types of undergraduate information system degrees include cybersecurity, information assurance, information technology, and more.

12. Software Development

Software development degrees are a common technology degree that involves computer programming, database structures, and more. Typical courses might include:

• java for programmers
• database design and development
• secure software development

According to the Bureau Labor of Statistics, the demand for software developers will increase, and the demand will increase faster than for any other occupation.

The demand for software developers is one reason software development is a common BS degree as well as the love that many have for technology.

13. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a popular BS degree that prepares you for industry certifications and offers concentration options that fit your career path. Examples of concentration options include:

• cloud computing
• data analytics
• data management

Accredited institutions like Purdue Global and Southern New Hampshire University offer an online learning format for earning your undergraduate degree in cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity majors continue to rise as innovative technology continues to emerge and the demand for protection continues to grow.

14. Health Sciences

Health Science degrees are a common BS degree that prepares you for leadership roles in healthcare positions such as clinical coordinator or health services manager.

Course requirements vary depending on the college. Still, course examples include the following:

• health care economics
• healthcare quality management
• risk management and health care regulations

Grand Canyon University and Southern New Hampshire University are just a couple of the accredited colleges that offer online learning formats for your BS in health sciences degree.

Other BS Programs to Consider

There are millions of BS programs granted annually, and many more to consider than the most common BS degrees listed above. Find a few more BS degree programs below:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Bachelor of Science in criminal justice
• Bachelor of Science in geosciences
• Bachelor of Science in physics
• Bachelor of Science in sports management

What Is a Bachelor of Science Degree?

A Bachelor of Science degree is a recognition that you receive and achievement after completing 120 credit hours or more in a BS degree program at a college or university.

There are many BS degrees available such as the ones listed on this page that qualify you for professional entry level career positions.

Core Components of a Bachelor of Science Degree

The core components of a Bachelor of Science degree typically cover STEM studies. You can expect classes in math, science, technology, and more.

Required general education courses depend on your major. Many majors require you to take college algebra and have an English requirement.

General education and elective courses are important in BS programs because they provide a foundation for college instruction and allow you to select courses that interest you and support your degree.

Core competencies typically take about two years to complete. If you have completed some college education at a regionally accredited university, you may be able to transfer credits.

What's the Difference Between a BA and a BS?

A Bachelor of Science degree is different that a Bachelor of Arts degree because it covers more studies in science, math, and technology rather than arts and humanities.

The other difference is that a Bachelor of Science degree typically includes studies in a concentration or specialization that supports your interests.

Both degrees are great for starting and advancing careers. A Bachelor of Science degree may appeal more to the science or technology industry.

Specializations within Bachelor of Science Degrees

Many BS degrees require or offer specializations that consist of studies related to a specific discipline that supports your major.

For example, a computer science degree may offer specializations in data analysis, information technology, or software engineering.

Other environmental science majors, health care majors, and more typically offer specialization opportunities.

Specializations enhance your degree and develop your knowledge in a specific focus area to support your career goals or personal interests.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor of Science Degrees

See answers to commonly asked questions about Bachelor of Science degrees below.

What Makes a BS Degree a Good Degree Choice?

A Bachelor of Science degree is a desirable choice for any prospective student who enjoys business or STEM subject areas.

Should I Get a BS or a BA Degree?

Choose a BS or BA degree based on your general education needs and educational interests. Bachelor of Science degrees typically allow you to focus your degree in an area that supports your goals.

You can find a BA or BS degree for most majors. You may also want to base your decision on transfer credits you may have.

What Is the Best BS Degree?

The best BS degree is one that supports your career goals, educational needs, and personal interests. The best BS degree is also one that is affordable, flexible, and challenging.

What Are the Course Requirements for a BS Degree?

Course requirements vary for BS degrees depending on your major and college. There are usually general education or foundational courses, core or major courses, and elective courses.

General education courses for BS degrees are typically similar and may be transferrable from a regionally accredited university.

You must complete 120 or more credit hours in required coursework to earn your BS degree.

What Job Opportunities Are Available with a BS Degree?

You may be qualified for many entry level positions by achieving a BS degree. Job opportunities depend on your major, experience, and skills.

Can I Earn My BS Online?

Yes, in most cases you can earn your BS degree completely or partly online. However, there are cases where colleges require you to earn your degree on campus.

Pursue Your Bachelor of Science Degree

Pursue one of the most common Bachelor of Science degrees on this page if you are interested in business or STEM study areas and are ready to commit to your undergraduate college degree.