Choosing the right degree can be pivotal in shaping your future career. You have several options, but three of them — a Bachelor of Arts (BA), a Bachelor of Science (BS), and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) — offer valuable opportunities and each has distinct academic focuses and career pathways.
Understanding these differences between a BA, BS, and BFA can help you determine which degree aligns best with your skills, interests, and professional aspirations.
Key differences between BA, BS, and BFA
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
A Bachelor of Arts degree emphasizes a well-rounded liberal arts education, encouraging students to explore humanities, social sciences, and creative fields. This degree often provides flexibility in elective coursework, making it an excellent choice for students interested in interdisciplinary studies, double majors, or study abroad opportunities.
- Focus: Broad liberal arts education
- Common fields: English, history, communication, psychology, sociology, Economics
- Ideal for: Students who value critical thinking, communication skills, and diverse coursework
- Career paths: Journalism, marketing, public relations, education, social services
BA programs at SDSU Global Campus:
Bachelor of Science (BS)
A Bachelor of Science degree offers a more specialized, technical, and analytical approach to a subject. Programs often require additional coursework in math, science, and research methodologies, preparing students for careers in STEM fields and professional graduate programs.
- Focus: Technical and analytical skills
- Common fields: Biology, computer science, engineering, business analytics
- Ideal for: Students who enjoy problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and research
- Career paths: Healthcare, data analysis, engineering, technology, environmental science
BS programs at SDSU Global Campus:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
A Bachelor of Fine Arts is a professional degree focused on intensive artistic training. Unlike the BA, which includes a mix of liberal arts and creative studies, the BFA dedicates the majority of coursework to hands-on artistic development and performance.
- Focus: Professional artistic training
- Common fields: Visual arts, theater, dance, film, creative writing
- Ideal for: Students who want immersive, career-focused training in the arts
- Career paths: Professional artist, actor, filmmaker, dancer, designer
How These Degrees Overlap
While these degrees have distinct focuses, they share some commonalities:
- Time commitment: Each degree typically requires around 120 credit hours and takes four years to complete.
- Core requirements: All three degrees include general education courses in writing, math, and social sciences. However, a BFA generally requires less general education courses than the BA or BS degrees.
- Career flexibility: While certain careers may favor one degree, graduates of all three programs can pursue diverse professional paths with the right experience and skills.
Choosing the Right Degree for You
When deciding between a BA, BS, or BFA, consider the following:
- What are your strengths and interests? If you prefer creative expression, a BFA might be best. A BA is a strong choice if you enjoy critical thinking and the humanities. A BS may be the right fit if you are more analytical and data-driven.
- What career do you want? Research the common degree requirements for your field. A BS is typically favored in STEM careers, while a BA is common in communications and social sciences. A BFA is essential for those pursuing professional arts careers.
- Do you prefer flexibility or specialization? A BA allows for broader exploration, a BS is more structured and technical, and a BFA specializes in artistic development.
Choosing between a BA, BS, or BFA depends on your academic interests and long-term goals. Whether you prioritize artistic training, technical expertise, or a broad liberal arts education, each degree offers unique advantages to set you on the path to success. By evaluating your personal and professional aspirations, you can select the degree that best aligns with your future goals.
