<p>What is the difference especially for someone who is a computer science major. What if you want to double major? What if you want to go to grad school and what if you want to immediately join the work force?</p>
<p>I would have to say that a Bachelor of Science is going to be more quantitative, whereas a Bachelor of Arts is going to be more policy based, or design based (human interaction). I'm only guessing; I have never heard of a BA in CS. I would say that a BS is going to help you significantly in Grad School and the workforce. Then again, it depends on what exactly the BA program covers. Can you give any more information about it.</p>
<p>BS is likely to be more specific. Generally, BS, BSW, BM, MS, MD, JD, and so forth are considered professional degrees (i.e., more technical/job-specific/applied training) and BA/MA/Ph.D. are liberal arts-style degrees so they focus more on a broad educational base.
You should look at the actual course catalog differences and evaluate which one you think fits better with what you want training in. Also, remember that you can always do electives in areas in which you want to concentrate if you pick the smaller one!</p>
<p>Oh my god, i realize that a BS is more technical. I mean, isn't that obvious? One says ART, the other says SCIENCE.</p>
<p>I want to know the pros and cons of them. </p>
<p>Not to sound mean. Apumic, you gave me interesting information.
I didn't know that BS was "professional" degree. So why would someone get a BA?</p>
<p>You don't pick between a BS and a BA usually, you just end up with whichever one your major happens to fall under. At my university there are a couple majors that offer both BS and BA versions, and basically the difference is in the requirements: BA degrees require foreign language study while BS degrees do not, and certain colleges have their own requirements (economics through the business school requires basic business classes).</p>
<p>In some sciences you can get a BA. No one will take you seriously.</p>
<p>The class choices are considerably easier (Temple has a CS BA and they don't even take real calc, I think). It will reflect upon employers.</p>
<p>I'll use Chemistry as an example...
My school offers both a B.A and a B.S. in Chemistry. Looking at the major requirements - the B.A. requires easier & less math and physics. The chemistry core course requirements are also less strenuous. The B.A. also requires a mini-minor in a foreign language.
The B.S. is hardcore science, math, physics (no language). The B.S. is ACS certified (American Chemical Society), and the B.A. is not. </p>
<p>Those that want to pursue an advanced degree in a scientific field, or get a good job at a company doing research MUST pursue the B.S. Those that want to become a high school chemistry teacher or something can pursue the B.A.</p>
<p>I assume for computer science - a B.S. would be superior over a B.A. In any scientific field a B.A. won't get you very far.</p>
<p>BusinessGuy, I am TELLING you, as a comp sci major my school offers BOTH degrees.</p>
<p>Wow, Tempe has a CS BA and they don't take calc? Wow... That's really not fair. Mine, we take Calc 1, 2 but an easier stats class.</p>
<p>So no one will take it seriously? Why have it, then?</p>
<p>Hmmm, this is interesting. Thank you guys. I wonder where I can find an adult to give me his insight, too.</p>
<p>Yeah. I'm a CS major, obviously in the BS track. We have calc 1,2 and then I think some CS-oriented math class too. </p>
<p>I think BAs in sciences exist because, as Pearl said, you don't need a BS in Chem to teach atomic structure to tenth graders, just as you don't need a BS in Comp Sci to teach for loops to high schoolers, or if you plan on being a sysadmin I guess.</p>
<p>It's got its purpose, but if you're shelling out the money, why would you pick the lesser degree for around the same price?</p>
<p>Wow, cewillm, you're right...</p>