BA vs. BS

Neither degree is inherently better. The value of a BA vs. BS often depends on how well the program aligns with your career goals and the industries you’re interested in. According to the BLS, occupations vary widely in pay, growth and required education, meaning different degrees can lead to different types of opportunities depending on the field.^{(See disclaimer 4)} 

For example, technical and healthcare roles may require a Bachelor of Science due to specialized training, while Bachelor of Arts degrees are often aligned with careers in communication, education and the social sciences. Choosing a degree that supports your career direction and skill development is typically more important than the degree designation itself.

Difficulty varies by subject and individual strengths. BS programs often emphasize quantitative, scientific and technical coursework, while BA programs typically focus on reading, writing, analysis and interpretation.

The BLS highlights that different careers require different combinations of skills, such as mathematics, science, communication and critical thinking, depending on the field.^{(See disclaimer 5)} Because of this, one degree path may feel more challenging based on how it aligns with your academic strengths and preferred way of learning, rather than one being inherently harder than the other. 

Employers typically prioritize relevant skills, experience and knowledge over whether the degree is a BS or BA. In fact, research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) shows that about 70% of employers use skills-based hiring practices, focusing more on what candidates can do rather than their degree type or GPA.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

While some roles, such as those in healthcare, engineering or other technical fields may require a BS due to specialized coursework, many employers value the transferable skills developed through both BA and BS programs.^{(See disclaimer 6)} Factors such as internships, hands-on experience and demonstrated competencies often play a key role in hiring decisions across industries.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Admission requirements include submitting transcripts and meeting GPA criteria. You may also be asked to provide additional materials, depending on your academic background. At GCU, university counselors are available to walk you through each step of the process and help you understand your options. 

Yes, you may be able to switch from a BA to a BS program, depending on degree requirements, completed credits and university policies. University counselors can help you compare program options, determine how your credits may apply and choose a path that better fits your academic and career goals.

Medical schools generally do not require a specific type of bachelor’s degree. According to the BLS, physicians and surgeons typically need to complete a bachelor’s degree before entering medical school, but the field of study can vary.^{(See disclaimer 7)} Instead of focusing on whether you earn a BA or BS, medical schools emphasize completion of key prerequisite coursework, such as biology, chemistry and physics, along with strong academic performance and readiness for advanced study. 

While many students choose science-focused majors to align with these prerequisites, students from a range of academic backgrounds, including liberal arts fields, may also pursue medical school if they complete the required coursework.^{(See disclaimer 8)} This highlights that preparation, academic performance and relevant experience are generally more important than the specific degree designation. 

According to the BLS, fields such as healthcare, technology and business are often associated with strong job growth.^{(See disclaimer 9)} The BLS also projects faster-than-average growth in healthcare roles and continued growth in STEM-related fields, including computer and mathematical occupations, driven by data, technology and research needs. 

The most useful degree is one that aligns with your goals and interests while building relevant skills. Both BA and BS degrees can support a wide range of opportunities when paired with experience and continued learning.