What is the difference you ask? Are you debating whether to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree?
Yes, It’s important to understand the difference between the two. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) typically focuses on liberal arts and humanities, while a Bachelor of Science (BS) looks at scientific concepts. Deciding which degree is best for you will depend on your career goals and interests.
What is the Difference in a BA vs. BS Program?
The main difference between a BA and BS program is the focus of the curriculum and where it will lead you in terms of career opportunities.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
B.A. Programs focus on liberal arts and humanities courses such as literature, history, languages, philosophy, and the fine arts. This degree is primarily for students looking to develop their careers in communications-related fields such as marketing, public relations, or journalism.
Major subjects include a variety of college credits (120 to 180) in the humanities and social sciences such as;
- Writing
- Art
- History
- Philosophy
- Religion
In addition to academic classes, B.A. programs often require general electives like physical education or creative writing as well as professional development courses like business communication. After completing the program, students can move on to pursue graduate degrees or enter the job market with valuable skills.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
B.S. degrees are more technical than B.A. programs and often offer students an opportunity to specialize in a specific area of study such as
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Nursing
- Biology
- Mathematics
Major subjects in these programs include math, science, technology, anatomy, and chemistry and may require around 120-180 college credits. Students expecting to go into the job market after graduation can benefit from courses aimed at professional development such as project management or leadership skills.
Additionally, the curriculum includes elective courses that cover topics such as nutrition and healthcare policy to provide a well-rounded education. Graduates of these programs can use their learned knowledge in various industries like health care, business, and IT. Tailoring either degree program.
Can You Choose Between a BA or BS Degree in Certain Fields of Study?
Yes! Many universities offer both BA and BS programs in fields like computer science, engineering, and business.
Depending on the university you choose to attend, there can be slight differences in the course structure, goals of each degree, and focus.
For instance, a BA in computer science may require more liberal arts courses while a BS program may have additional math or programming classes. By researching different universities and comparing their respective curriculum for each degree program, you can decide which one is the best fit for you.
It is also important to consider your career aspirations when deciding if a BA or BS degree is best for you. Some employers may prefer a BA for certain jobs, while a BS degree may be more useful for technical roles.
Curriculum Requirements
The curriculum requirements of a BA or BS degree program vary from school to school. Typically, each major subject’s course will consist of college credits (120 to 180).
Major subjects may include writing, art, history, philosophy, religion, math, science, technology, anatomy, and chemistry. In addition to major courses, students may also be required to take general electives such as physical education or creative writing.
For example, Business degree programs may require a combination of both humanities and social science subjects as well as core business courses like accounting, marketing, strategy, and finance.
When you are deciding between a BA or BS degree program, you should consider the curriculum offered by your chosen university as well as its career prospects. Researching different universities can help you make an informed or more educated decision.
BS vs. BA – Program Components
When deciding on a degree program, students should consider the core components of the BA and BS. Take a look at the table below to get the angle I’m coming from.
| Key Components | Bachelor of Arts | Bachelor of Science |
|---|---|---|
| Average Credit hours for major | 36 | 54 |
| Average Required Credits in the 300-400 Level for Major | 18 | 27 |
| Time to Complete Degree | Usually 3 to 4 years | Usually 3 to 5 years |
| Common Fields of Study | Liberal artsCommunication Foreign languagesEnglishMusicJournalism | MathematicsScienceBusinessComputer ScienceInformation TechnologyEngineering |
| Average Number of Electives | 28 credit hours | 12 credit hours |
Career Preparation
success and determination is key. Your future self will thank you for taking the time to develop your skills now and prepare for the career path you choose. Invest in yourself, learn new skills, and develop the determination to see your future success come alive. You will be surprised by the opportunities available when you have the determination to take on challenging tasks and achieve a successful future.
Take the time to explore both degree options and make sure you choose the one that fits your interests, career aspirations, and determination. With the right determination and knowledge, you can take steps toward creating a successful future.
However, remember that determination isn’t enough; it needs to be combined with the right degree, knowledge, and skills.
what is the difference between BS in applied studies vs bA in liberal studies?
The main difference between a BS in Applied Studies and a BA in Liberal Studies is the curriculum required to earn each degree.
A BS in Applied Studies typically requires coursework that is focused on practical applications in areas such as engineering, technology, business, and health care.
A BA in Liberal Studies requires a more general approach to education, with coursework in humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Both degree programs are designed to give students the ability to think critically and analyze various issues.
Depending on the program, they may also provide more specialized knowledge in a certain area.
Ba vs. Bs in environmental science
The main difference between a BA and BS in environmental science is the emphasis of the degree program.
A BA in environmental science puts more emphasis on the humanities, social sciences, and policy aspects of the environment. Coursework may include topics such as environmental law, sociology, and public relations.
A BS in environmental science focuses more on the technical and scientific side. Coursework may include the study of ecology, atmospheric sciences, hydrology, and geology.
