<p>I'm planning on transferring into UC Berkeley for either physics or astrophysics, but all they offer is a BA. Is there a big difference between a BA and a BS?</p>
<p>I think that the B.S. entails that you took more science courses, such as Biology, Chemistry, etc.</p>
<p>At most schools the B.A. program in physics differs in two ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>Less required physics courses for the degree, and less required per semester/quarter</li>
<li>More freedom in choice of electives</li>
</ul>
<p>Most of the time in the B.A. program you have more opportunity to take classes in other fields, because the requirement within the major is much easier to fulfill.</p>
<p>It appears to be the same at Berkeley, though they do not have a B.S. program. If you look at their planned program for the B.A. in physics, it looks as though they only require two physics courses a semester for junior and senior year, which is different from UCLA for example where at least three physics courses per quarter are required in upper division for the B.S.</p>
<p>In addition, they do heavily suggest getting involved in research if you plan to go on to graduate school, so the program allows more time for that.</p>
<p>Hoping to possibly transfer there myself this fall. We’ll find out soon enough. Hope this helps. Check out physics.berkeley.edu for a little more info, though the site is not terrific.</p>
<p>Good Luck.</p>