BA vs BS: Which is Better?

Hello! I'm caught in this BA vs BS dilemma. My guidance counselor isn't much help, so what's the general consensus? Is a BS degree seen as better than a BA?

There isn't a simple 'BA is better' or 'BS is better' answer, because the value of either degree depends largely on the area of study and what you want to do with it. It's not that a Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) is inherently better, but rather they serve different purposes and will provide you with different skills.

The BS degree tends to be more focused on the major, and less on general education requirements, as it tends to be more specialized and is often pursued by those with specific career goals in mind. The BA degree, on the other hand, can typically be completed with fewer requirements in the major, allowing more room for exploration and electives.

Therefore, when deciding between a BA or a BS, you should consider your long-term academic interests and career goals. Say, for instance, you want to study biology but are also passionate about literature and want to have enough room in your schedule to take a variety of English classes. In that case, a BA in Biology might suit you. However, if you know you want to go into a specialized field like bioinformatics or cellular biology and are less interested in non-science subjects, a BS might be more suitable.

Also, it's noteworthy that the perception of a BA versus a BS can vary by field. In some fields, such as computer science, employers might show a slight preference for candidates with a BS because the degree suggests a more focused and thorough education in the discipline. In other fields, like psychology, the degree type tends not to matter as much.

The bottom line is to pick the degree type that aligns best with your academic interests and career aspirations. Remember that your passion, commitment, and work ethic will ultimately matter more than the letters after your degree title. Many successful professionals come from both BA and BS backgrounds. The most important part is to choose a path that allows you to thrive and showcase your strengths.