B.A. in Psychology vs. B.S. in Psychology: Which to Choose?

When choosing between a B.A. and a B.S., many people simplify the difference by assuming that a B.A. is related to the arts and a B.S. to science.

However, it's not always that straightforward. For instance, you can earn either a B.A. or a B.S. in Psychology, representing the same field and the same level of education but different degree types. What exactly does this mean for prospective students? Read on to discover the nuances of the B.A. vs. B.S. in Psychology and what each degree can offer regarding career paths, academic focus, and future opportunities.

What is a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology?

A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology at UND is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles and theories, emphasizing a broad-based education in the liberal arts and humanities. This degree allows students to explore various aspects of human behavior, mental processes, and social interactions while integrating knowledge from related fields.

What is a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology?

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology is designed to provide students with a scientific and technical understanding of psychology. This degree emphasizes the biological, cognitive, and quantitative aspects of human behavior and mental processes.

Key Differences Between B.A. in Psychology vs. B.S. in Psychology

A B.A. and a B.S. in Psychology are similar because they focus on the same field, aiming to understand human behavior and mental processes. In fact, some institutions may only offer one or the other! Below, we analyze the similarities and differences between these two degrees at UND across three key levels: course requirements, career paths, and the skillsets they help develop.

Course Requirements

The exact curriculum for psychology degrees varies by program and university. At the University of North Dakota (UND), both the B.A. and B.S. in Psychology typically require 120 credits, with at least 36 credits in major-specific courses. Additionally, their curriculum includes a mix of core psychology courses, electives in related fields, and essential studies requirements. Key courses for both degrees include:

• Introduction to Psychology
• Statistics for the Behavioral Sciences
• Research Methods in Psychology

However, the B.A. degree in Psychology has more flexibility in course choices and incorporates more coursework from the humanities. This approach allows students to explore a variety of subjects beyond psychology, fostering a well-rounded academic experience. In contrast, the B.S. degree requires additional research methods and lab-based coursework, as well as additional coursework in mathematics  related to  empirical research and analytical skills.

Both the B.A. and B.S. programs at UND provide ample opportunities for practical learning. Students in both programs are required to take two 400-level psychology courses, but students pursuing the B.A. have more flexibility about the courses they choose. Students in both programs are also required to complete at least two credits of applied experience through practical or instructional experiences and to demonstrate Level II proficiency in a foreign language. Students pursuing the B.A. also complete an additional humanities course.

The B.S. program at UND is designed to equip students with a stronger foundation in scientific and technical skills. In addition to their core psychology courses, B.S. students must choose a laboratory-based course as one of their 400-level psychology courses.. B.S. students are also required to complete an additional course in either algebra, precalculus, or computer science. This scientific emphasis prepares students for research and technical roles in psychology, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of graduate school or other opportunities within the field.

Career Paths

Graduates with a B.A. in Psychology have various career opportunities, especially in fields involving direct interaction with people. Common career paths include counseling, social work, human resources, public relations, education, and community services. These roles benefit from the B.A. program's emphasis on understanding human behavior, communication skills, and cultural awareness. These graduates are well-equipped to work in settings such as schools, non-profit organizations, corporate environments, and government agencies.

On the other hand, a B.S. in Psychology is designed to best prepare students for graduate school in psychology or for careers that require strong analytical and research skills. Graduates often pursue roles in research, experimental psychology, clinical psychology, healthcare, neuroscience, and academic positions. These careers benefit from the B.S. program's focus on scientific methods, statistical analysis, and technical writing. Graduates with a B.S. in Psychology are prepared to work in research institutions, hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, and universities. 

With either degree, graduates are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees and specialized certifications that can significantly enhance their career prospects and open doors to some of the highest-paying jobs in the field of psychology. They can pursue advanced degrees in specialized fields, such as a master's degree in forensic psychology, which prepares them for psychology-related roles in the criminal justice system, or Ph.D. programs in counseling psychology or clinical psychology, leading to careers as counseling psychologists, clinical psychologists, college professors, clinical directors, etc. Additionally, they can obtain certificates in areas like behavioral health and forensic psychology, which offer targeted training and credentials that are highly valued in the job market.

Skill Sets

A B.A. in Psychology helps students develop a variety of valuable skills, including critical thinking, communication, understanding of human behavior, cultural awareness, and interpersonal skills. These competencies are particularly useful in careers that involve working closely with individuals or groups, such as counseling, social work, human resources, and public relations. The ability to analyze and interpret human behavior, communicate effectively, and understand diverse cultural perspectives is crucial in these fields. Additionally, B.A. graduates often possess strong writing and presentation skills, enabling them to convey complex psychological concepts clearly and persuasively.

In comparison, a B.S. in Psychology emphasizes skills related to data analysis, research methodology, technical writing, statistical analysis, and scientific reasoning. These skills are essential for conducting empirical research, designing experiments, and analyzing data in scientific and technical contexts. B.S. graduates are adept at using statistical software, interpreting research findings, and writing technical reports. These competencies are highly valuable in research-oriented roles, technical positions, and fields that require analytical expertise, such as healthcare, neuroscience, and academia. The ability to think critically, analyze data, and communicate scientific information effectively prepares B.S. graduates for successful careers in a variety of scientific and technical fields.

B.A. in Psychology vs. B.S. in Psychology: Which Degree is Right for You?

The choice you make between a B.A. in Psychology vs. a B.S. in Psychology will shape your educational experience and career path, so it's important to consider your interests, career goals, and academic strengths. Both degrees offer unique advantages and prepare you for diverse career paths and further studies. Regardless of which degree you pursue, opportunities such as being a teaching assistant or research assistant are available to you and will help you with whatever you pursue after graduation.

Reflect on the subjects that excite you and think about what kind of career fits your preferences. A B.A. in Psychology may be the best fit if you envision a career involving direct interaction with people, such as counseling, social work, human resources, or community services. Conversely, if you are drawn to scientific research, clinical psychology, healthcare, or academic roles, a B.S. in Psychology may be more suitable.

Prior to finalizing your decision, it's highly recommended to talk with academic advisors, faculty members, and professionals in the field of psychology. Their insights into the differences between a B.S. and a B.A. in Psychology and the potential career prospects can be invaluable. Furthermore, consider reaching out to alumni who have pursued careers that pique your interest to gain a real-world understanding of how their degree choice influenced their career trajectory.

Conclusion

At UND, students have the flexibility to choose the psychology program that best fits their needs and career aspirations. The B.A. with a major in Psychology is available as a full- or part-time program offered 100% online, while the B.S. with a major in Psychology is available as an on-campus program. No matter which path you choose, UND provides an excellent foundation for a successful career in psychology.

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