What Are the Different Types of Bachelor's Degrees?
Bachelor #1: The BA
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is the broadest
bachelor's degree you can earn. BA students declare a major, but they
take enough gen ed. classes to keep their transcripts very well-rounded.
This means, if you want to study sociology, you'll take a lot of
sociology classes. But you'll also complete course work in subjects like
philosophy, literature, science, and math. Eventually, if you decide
not to pursue social work, you can still apply for other types of jobs.
You can also apply for master's degree programs, using your BA as a
stepping stone.
Bachelor #2: The BS
The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is a more
focused program. BS students usually pursue majors like engineering,
physics, business, or accounting. BS degrees require fewer general
studies courses, if any at all. BS degrees are often recommended for
students who directly "apply" the lessons they have learned — including
scientific formulas, computer codes, tax laws, or business equations. BS
degrees are also a good choice for students who are more certain they
will seek employment in their chosen major. Like the BA, the BS can be
used to apply to a graduate program. And in fact, it may be easier to
get accepted into a graduate program in the applied sciences (like
engineering or electronics) if you have a BS, as opposed to a BA.
Bachelor #3: The BFA
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is often known as
the "professional" undergraduate degree, because BFA graduates go on to
become professionals in various creative fields. Professional dancers,
singers, actors, painters, and sculptors are good candidates for the
BFA. Increasingly, BFAs are also being offered in fields like web design
and digital media. This focused approach is great for students who are
sure they want a career in the art world. However, if a graduate decides
to change careers later on, he or she will have less of a general study
background. Another important note: If you want to teach one
of these arts, you're better off pursuing a BA. Your enrollment advisor
and state department of education can help explain why.
Bachelor #4: The BBA
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) is
very similar to the BS, except that it refers exclusively to business
programs (whereas "BS" may also be used to describe a science degree.)
If you want a career in business, both the BS and the BBA are good
options. In general, BS degrees tend to involve more math, accounting,
and economics courses. BBA degrees, by contrast, usually offer more
courses in decision making, management strategy — even organizational
psychology. These are good areas to study if you want to become a
general manager, as opposed to a dedicated accountant or financial
advisor.