* A BA degree is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides a broad education in the liberal arts.
* BA programs typically include coursework in English, history, mathematics, science, and foreign language.
* BA graduates often pursue careers in education, business, law, and public service.
Bachelor of Science (BS) degree
* A BS degree is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides a more focused education in a specific field of study.
* BS programs typically include coursework in mathematics, science, and engineering.
* BS graduates often pursue careers in engineering, science, healthcare, and business.
Master of Arts (MA) degree
* An MA degree is a one- to two-year graduate degree that provides advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study.
* MA programs typically require applicants to have a BA degree in a related field.
* MA graduates often pursue careers in teaching, research, and administration.
Master of Science (MS) degree
* An MS degree is a one- to two-year graduate degree that provides advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study.
* MS programs typically require applicants to have a BS degree in a related field.
* MS graduates often pursue careers in engineering, science, healthcare, and business.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree
* A PhD degree is a three- to five-year graduate degree that provides advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study.
* PhD programs typically require applicants to have an MA or MS degree in a related field.
* PhD graduates often pursue careers in teaching, research, and administration.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between BA, BS, MA, MS, and PhD degrees:
| Degree | Length | Focus | Typical coursework | Career opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA | Four years | Broad education in the liberal arts | English, history, mathematics, science, foreign language | Education, business, law, public service |
| BS | Four years | More focused education in a specific field of study | Mathematics, science, engineering | Engineering, science, healthcare, business |
| MA | One to two years | Advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study | Varies by field | Teaching, research, administration |
| MS | One to two years | Advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study | Varies by field | Engineering, science, healthcare, business |
| PhD | Three to five years | Advanced coursework and research in a specific field of study | Varies by field | Teaching, research, administration |