What are the differences between a BA and a BS in Psychology?

Answer 1

The only difference would be some of the electives and general education requirements. BA degrees usually have a foreign language requirement. You probably would have to take more math, sciences, and computer classes (and less language and social science classes) with a BS. When I was looking at BA/BS programs, I noticed social science programs that had a BS made students take more statistics classes and more Biology/chemistry classes. They also had to take neuro-psychology and study the brain/brain chemcials in depth. However, these classes will help better prepare you for graduate school. If you want to take the Social Psychology route, then a BA would be fine... otherwise, go for the BS. Generally, BA degrees require a specific amount of foreign language classes in order to graduate. In contrast, you usually have to take more reasoning classes ( i.e. math or philosophy) to graduate with a BS. It depends on the institution and the psychology department within the school as to which focus they prefer.

The BA has a broader scope, with a strong emphasis on the humanities, theoretical and general knowledge in a recognized discipline, interdisciplinary field, or of a professional study.

The BS is more of a focused approach with a science base to include a balance of liberal arts, technological knowledge, math and computer oriented skills, and practical skills needed for a particular discipline within the field

Answer 2

The advantage and disadvantages would depend on what the person wants to do after the BS or BA. If continuing to graduate school, it would be best to speak with an academic adviser for the graduate program in which the person wants to enroll. They could tell you what the preference is. The most basic difference is BA degrees usually have a foreign language requirement and BS degrees do not. !

It all depends on your post graduate studies. If you want to go into clinical psychology BS would seem to be more appropriate, whereas family psychologists are more appropriated to a BA degree for they use language interpretations in therapy. The degree only differs in the additional subjects, the psychology stays the same.

Answer 3

Usually, the difference between a BA and a BS, is the amount of general education courses required to complete the degree for graduation purposes. The BS is usually more career oriented with more course particular to the field. The above statement is true. However, in the job market, it doens't matter much which degree is attained.

Answer 4

It depends on the college or university and the department within the school that determines the approach they wish to focus on. Read the following for a brief general overview of the difference between a BA and a BS.

The Bachelor's of Arts degree (BA) has a broader scope, with a strong emphasis on the humanities, theoretical and general knowledge in a recognized discipline, interdisciplinary field, or of a professional study.

The Bachelor of Science degree (BS) is more of a focused approach with a science base to include a balance of liberal arts, technological knowledge, math and computer oriented skills, and practical skills needed for a particular discipline within the field.

Answer 5

They are both equivalent degrees with a slightly different approach to the field as indicated below.

The Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) has a broader scope, with a strong emphasis on the humanities, theoretical and general knowledge in a recognized discipline, interdisciplinary field, or of a professional study.

The Bachelor of Science degree (BS) is more of a focused approach with a science base to include a balance of liberal arts, technological knowledge, math and computer oriented skills, and practical skills needed for a particular discipline within the field.

Answer 6

depends what you want to do.