How is a bachelor of science degree different from a bachelor of the arts degree?

I agree with Patricia. It depends on the institution. I worked for a college that did not have a difference at all between the two. There are some graduate programs that specify which degree they will accept or will require students to have at least 30 credits within liberal arts.

There are variables to consider in answering that question. Ironically, my undergraduate degree in English was a B.S. because I attended Iowa State University of SCIENCE and technology. Had I graduated from the University of Iowa, it would have been a B.A.
So the type of university is part of the equation as well as the curriculum. In my case, even though the degree was in English, I was required to take a minimum number of credits in science and math - ugh for me but not for others.

Hi Abigail!

You asked a very interesting question. Here are several answers to that question.

http://www.collegechoice.net/choice/bachelor-of-arts-vs-bachelor-of-science/
http://www.bachelorsofscience.org/bachelor-of-science-vs-bachelor-of-arts-whats-the-difference
http://www.academicprograms.calpoly.edu/content/academicpolicies/policies-undergrad/ba-bs-difference

Best of luck!