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What is the difference between a BA and BS in psychology?

I want to study psychology but I am more of a science person, so I'm wondering what classes I would need to take for a BS in psychology, or a BA in psychology.
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Zachariah’s Answer

Hello Franziska,

I think it depends on the school you are attending and earning the degree from. At my undergrad alma mater, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the Bachelor's of Arts option required students take two semesters of a language and the Bachelor's of Science required students to take a higher number of credits in the College of Natural Sciences department. You should check with your school's psychology department to find out what the requirements of either are and try to work with them to determine which track suits your needs best. As with anything in academia you are going to want to try to suit the needs you will have upon graduation when you are trying to join the workforce.

Good Luck!
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Daniela’s Answer

Hi, Franziska


Both degrees<span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> will provide a general overview of the field of psychology. The Bachelor of Arts is an excellent choice for students who want a balance between psychology and another discipline, such as HR, marketing and health care. However, the Bachelor of Science degree offers more flexibility and diversity for students who wish to pursue psychology as their primary academic choice. In the end, it is important to select a degree that satisfies your needs, interests and career goals.</span>

Daniela recommends the following next steps:

A Typical Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Degree A Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology will focus on general psychology classes. This will include classes on animal learning, human cognition, sociology and human relationships. For example, students may study the history of behaviorism and classical conditioning, while a Bachelor of Science student would actually design and conduct a simple lab-based experiment. Students will be exposed to the popular fields of social, clinical, cognitive and developmental psychology. In fact, students will learn the basics of all the major psychology branches, including forensic, education, personality, abnormal and cross-culture psychology.
A Typical Bachelor of Science in Psychology Degree Students in this degree program won’t just study learning theories, but delve deep into how memory, perception and cognition work. Thus, they will learn about cutting edge research and experiments that use technology to analyze the brain’s underlying biological and neurological framework. For example, researchers may study brain activity during meditation or intense thinking. Students will be able to study unique psychology specializations, such as health, consumer and physiological psychology. A Bachelor of Science in psychology degree lays the way to becoming applied- or clinical-based psychologist, such as a therapist, researcher or neuropsychologist.
Source: https://www.onlinepsychologydegree.info/faq/what-is-the-difference-between-a-ba-in-psychology-and-a-bs-in-psychology/
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Franzisca,

Understanding the Contrast Between a BA and BS in Psychology

Choosing to study psychology involves understanding the key distinctions between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. These differences primarily lie in the coursework focus.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology:

A BA in psychology generally provides a wider liberal arts education.
It frequently includes subjects that delve into the social and cultural facets of psychology.
If you choose a BA in psychology, you might find yourself studying social psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and counseling.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology:

A BS in psychology usually emphasizes the scientific elements of the field.
It often involves more in-depth study of research methods, statistics, and natural sciences.
If you opt for a BS in psychology, you might take courses like experimental psychology, biopsychology, cognitive neuroscience, and advanced statistics.

Coursework for a BS in Psychology:

To attain a BS in psychology, you'll likely need to study research methods, statistics, biology, chemistry, and other natural sciences.
Typical classes for a BS in psychology might encompass research design, data analysis, neuroscience, physiology, and psychopharmacology.

Coursework for a BA in Psychology:

For a BA in psychology, you'll probably take courses that highlight social sciences and humanities.
Courses for a BA might involve social psychology, developmental psychology, counseling techniques, multicultural issues in psychology, and history of psychology.

In essence, while both degrees offer a robust foundation in psychology, the BA leans more towards a liberal arts education focusing on social aspects of the field. Conversely, the BS prioritizes scientific principles and research methodologies within the discipline.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used:

American Psychological Association (APA) - The APA is a highly esteemed organization in the psychology field. Their guidelines and recommendations for undergraduate education are widely acknowledged and respected.

National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) - NASP offers valuable insights into the educational prerequisites for various levels of study within psychology. Their resources are highly esteemed by both professionals and students.

Association for Psychological Science (APS) - APS is renowned for fostering excellence and innovation in psychological science. Their publications frequently provide information about the various types of undergraduate programs available in psychology.

Take care and God bless,
JC.
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