BA vs. BS Degree: Differences & How To Choose

Most people know the differences between getting an associate degree, bachelor's degree, master's degree, or doctorate. Fewer people know the difference between the two main types of bachelor's degrees: arts and science.

Although both will have similar general education course requirements, the value of these undergraduate degree programs' value will vary based on your desired profession, required coursework, and other factors.

The Difference Between Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science

When students choose a bachelor's degree program to pursue in college, they will sometimes have a choice between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). Some schools only offer one type of degree for some programs so the decision might be taken out of your hands.

For students who do have a choice, it might seem like the choice doesn't matter because both are the same degree level and will take the same time and credit hours to complete. However, there is a difference.

At the highest level, a BA will be better for humanities and the soft sciences while a BS is better for the hard sciences and math programs. When you dig a little deeper, though, more differences become clear.

What Is a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree?

At most schools, a BA program aligns closer to a 'liberal arts' college curriculum. These degrees are categorized as having a more general education and include courses from multiple different education disciplines, even beyond a declared major.

Bachelor of Arts degrees include math and science requirements, but their main focus is on soft sciences like:

• sociology
• anthropology
• psychology

A BA program isn't exclusively for students pursuing degrees in humanities, though. Some schools offer BA and BS degrees in programs like:

• computer science
• business administration
• criminal justice

This presents opportunities for double majoring.

What Is a Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree?

A Bachelor of Science is generally more focused on math and natural science but will include some humanities courses. Unlike a BA, a BS program is usually focused and the classes reflect this. A BS in software engineering, for example, will be a more technically focused degree compared to a BA offering of the same type.

Due to the focused nature of the degree, and the inclusion of high-level math and science courses, there are fewer openings in a student's schedule for electives compared to a BA program. Unlike the more general education of a BA, a BS focuses on more technical skills through hands-on education.

What Is the Difference Between a BA and a BS?

Ultimately, the difference will be if the degree program focuses more on humanities or if they focus more on natural sciences and math. BA programs also include more electives and a broader range of courses than more focused BS programs.

In terms of total credit hours and general education requirements, there is little difference between the two, but individual schools can change the graduation requirements for their degree programs.

What Majors Typically Fall Under a BA Degree?

Degree programs that are generally humanities or social science-related programs like:

• English
• history
• philosophy
• political science
• sociology
• anthropology
• foreign language

What Majors Typically Fall Under a BS Degree?

BS students usually pursue a degree in hard or natural science, such as:

• chemistry
• information technology
• nursing
• physics
• data science
• accounting
• engineering

BA vs BS: Is One Better Than the Other?

There is no universal rule about whether a BS or BA program will be better, instead, there will be individual education and career paths where one will be better. For a job that will require more technical skills, a BS might be better. If you're looking to double major, choosing a BA for certain degrees might be preferred to provide a well-rounded education.

Do Employers Prefer a BA or a BS?

Getting a degree will help prepare you for your future career, but you might wonder if one degree will give you more credentials than the other. For most employers, having a BA or a BS won't make much difference in terms of employment. Although for some hard science professions, a BS might be preferred due to the more focused coursework, most careers won't give preference to one or the other.

Tips on How To Choose Between a BA Degree and a BS Degree

Earning an undergraduate degree is often essential to achieving career goals, so you want to make sure you pick a degree that will help you make the most of your higher education.

Evaluate Your Future Career Goals

If you're looking for a career in a hard science or math, like engineering or chemistry, you might want a BS. However, if you're looking for a job in social sciences, a BA might be better. You'll also need to consider if you're going to double major because combining a BS and BA degree could help.

Look Into Your Major

Some majors don't have a choice between the two and you won't have to decide. If there are multiple options for your degree, consider the day-to-day work required after graduation. For a degree in a field such as human resources, which is often provided in both forms, the day-to-day work requires an understanding of people and how they interact. A BA in human resources will include classes more tailored to this type of work.

Research Job Postings

If you want to follow a specific career path, research postings for jobs in that field. Are recruiters asking for a BA or BS? You might want to pick one over the other if employers show any preference.

Talk to An Academic Advisor

An academic advisor at your school can help you decide which of the two bachelor's degree programs is best for you. Even with research, it's always best to talk to someone who knows how to achieve your career goals.