What is the Difference Between B.A. and B.S. Degrees?

Have you ever wondered about the difference between a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program? Some degrees specifically lean toward one or the other. For example, communication degrees often are offered as B.A. programs, while nursing degrees are gained through the B.S. pathway. However, many schools offer certain degrees in both B.A. and B.S. programs, such as history, government, law, theology, and English. Distinguishing the difference between a B.A. and B.S. is important because the choice largely depends on your interests. 

While both are four-year bachelor’s degrees, the major difference between the programs is the coursework students complete. The B.A. pathway concentrates on humanities and broad, general knowledge of the program major. The B.S. pathway focuses on logic, natural sciences, and technical issues, diving deeply into the nuances of the program major. 

What is a B.A?

Are you more interested in humanities, such as reading, writing and philosophy? A Bachelor of Arts degree program could be just the track for you. B.A. programs strive to provide a comprehensive education that balances major courses with general liberal arts classes. Bachelor of Arts majors are often less specialized than if you chose to earn a B.S. You will explore a variety of courses to experience a broader view of subject matter such as literature, history, social sciences, art and basic math and science. 

With a B.A. program, you may have more opportunities to take electives because, generally, major courses require just 36 credits of the 120 credits necessary to graduate. This credit system allows students to shape their education according to their academic interests.

A few common B.A. degrees that Regent University in Virginia Beach offers are in English, writing, theater, music, history, religion, and communication. If you have a passion for one of these subjects and a desire to broaden your knowledge of the humanities, a B.A. is a great option to consider. 

What is a B.S?

Do you love a good science, math or reasoning challenge? The Bachelor of Science could be an excellent choice for you to consider. B.S. programs are typically centered around technical fields (such as biophysical sciences) or specialized fields (such as Christian leadership). Programs in the B.S. realm take the time to dive into all the specifics of the student’s chosen field, conducting deep research on the major subject matter. 

Generally, B.S. programs require more major-specific classes, while a B.A. allows students more freedom to learn about different fields. Rather than more electives, credits are often used for lab or science courses in which students are encouraged to master the technical aspects of their fields. A few common B.S. degrees offered at Regent include psychology, computer engineering, management, mathematics, business, and cybersecurity. 

Differing Career Paths

While both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are great options, it is often helpful to know what career you are pursuing when deciding between the two because they can set you on different paths. For example, Regent offers English in a B.A. and but also a B.S. in Professional Studies with a concentration in English.

English majors who choose a B.A. from Regent will be well informed on a wide range of composition topics that will assist them in a variety of careers and may choose to concentrate in areas such as communication, government, history, writing, or biblical studies. The B.S. in Professional Studies is one of Regent’s most transfer-friendly degree programs. So, if you are a lover of English but already have general credit hours from another university (as do many military and adult students), you may find Regent’s B.S. in Professional Studies pathway to English best aligns your bachelor’s degree pursuits with your career goals.

It is important to remember that both the Bachelor of Arts and the Bachelor of Science provide students the necessary skills to succeed. One is not objectively better than the other. However, knowing what you want to learn or accomplish with the degree can help guide the decision and place you on a track that is fascinating and tailored to your interests. 

Regent’s B.A and B.S. Degree Programs – Learn More!

In addition to a wide variety of degree options, Regent offers affordable, flexible and faith-based programs designed to develop your personal and spiritual life and prepare you to stand out in your career. In whichever program you choose, Regent strives to equip students to make a kingdom impact on the world. 

If you are ready to pursue your bachelor’s degree, consider earning it at Regent University. Regent is an accredited institution offering over 150 areas of study through degree programs from the associate to doctoral level. Within this range, Regent has an in-demand list of B.A. and B.S. degree programs that are taught by professors with remarkable field experience. You can check out all of Regent’s programs at regent.edu/degrees. 

Written by Jordan Lance – Student Writer