<p>I'm going to Cornell next year and double majoring in Chemistry + Computer Science. I'm planning to go to graduate school in chemistry. I will be getting a BA in both because there is no BS in Chemistry offered and it would take five years to get a BS in Computer Science and a BA in Chemistry whereas I can get a BA in both in 4 years. However, I plan on taking a highly technical courseload (I have only 4 humanities/social science courses required, two of which are satisfied by CS courses and another by an econ course; I also have 1 required semester of writing. I'm also going to be taking advanced/honors level classes early because I will be using my AP credit). However, many jobs in both industries say "qualified candidates will have a BS in X subject." Since I'm planning to get a PhD in chemistry, I doubt it will be an issue that my chemistry degree is a BA. However, for computer science, I'm not so sure. If I decide to look for work in the computer science industry, will it matter that my degree "says" BA even though I took the same CS/math/EE courses as a BS would take? Or will my courseload and the fact that Cornell has a strong CS reputation override that? I could try to accelerate the normally 5-year BA/BS double major into 4 years, however it seems kind of pointless unless it is necessary. On the other hand, it is worrisome when many jobs say "BS required" as if I don't have a BS they might just toss my resume no matter what.</p>
<p>Some places don’t offer BSes. Anyway, there isn’t much of a difference. BAs are usually more flexible in terms of courses (i.e. fewer compulsory courses, more electives and room for outside department courses). To apply for PhD, it doesn’t make a difference. For jobs, a potential employer who’ll reject someone strictly for the label (rather than the content) of a degree is not someone worth working for. I wouldn’t worry about it.</p>
<p>Succinct, to the point, and informative. Thanks.</p>
<p>I don’t think most employers care or even know the difference between BA/BS in chemistry.</p>
<p>^My question was more geared towards the CS side, since I’m planning on a PhD in chemistry anyway but not planning on a MS/PhD in CS.</p>
<p>In CS, as long as you have the important upper division CS courses in preparation for graduate school or industry work (or both, and depending on your goals), BA versus BS does not make too much difference.</p>