Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

BA vs BS Degree - Which is better?

Hi guys! I'm a high school junior, and I was just wondering if a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is better than a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree? Could anyone shed some light on the pros and cons of each?

2 years ago

There's no definitive answer as to whether a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is "better," as it largely depends on your interests, goals, and the specific field you plan to study. Here are some general differences and pros and cons of each:

Bachelor of Science (BS):

- Typically more focused on the technical and scientific aspects of a subject.

- Usually requires more courses within the major and may have more stringent prerequisites.

- Often provides more hands-on and practical experience within the field.

- Can be perceived as having a more specialized or rigorous curriculum.

Pros:

1. Greater depth within your chosen field, which may be beneficial if you have a specific career path in mind.

2. Focused and in-depth coursework may better prepare you for certain specialized job opportunities or graduate programs.

3. May offer more opportunities for research and practical experience.

Cons:

1. Less flexibility to explore and take courses outside of your major.

2. Could lead to a more narrowly focused education, potentially limiting broader career options.

Bachelor of Arts (BA):

- Typically provides a broader education, incorporating liberal arts courses and a wider range of electives.

- Generally promotes a well-rounded education, with an emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

- Offers more flexibility in terms of course choices and the ability to double major or minor in another subject easily.

Pros:

1. Greater flexibility to explore a variety of subjects or disciplines.

2. Development of versatile skills that are applicable to a range of careers.

3. Can lead to a more well-rounded education and broader understanding of the world.

Cons:

1. Less depth within a specific subject or field.

2. Potential difficulty in finding specialized or technical jobs within certain industries without further education or training.

Ultimately, your choice between a BS or BA degree will depend on your individual preferences, career goals, and the subject you're studying. Some fields, like biology or chemistry, may lean toward a BS degree, while a BA degree might be more suitable for subjects like English or history. It's essential to research the programs at the colleges you're interested in and speak with faculty or admissions representatives to better understand the specific requirements and expectations of each degree program.

2 years ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.