Psychology B.A. versus B.S.: Which is right for me?
The Department of Psychology offers undergraduate programs leading to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The objective of both programs is to provide a broad overview of psychology, and both require extensive exposure to areas other than psychology as a context for study in the major. The B.S. program emphasizes natural sciences and mathematics, while the B.A. program offers a broader interdisciplinary perspective. Both the B.S. and B.A. programs effectively prepare students for graduate school or careers in various fields, including medicine, education, law, management, business, marketing, and data science.
The Psychology major provides students with a background of fundamental subject matter
that will equip students for subsequent graduate study in related fields. The major
is also beneficial for students seeking careers that involve knowledge about interpersonal
relationships such as medicine, education, law, or management. Psychology expertise
is also relevant to standard business settings in which a major goal is to adapt products
and services to closely reflect human needs and capabilities.
B.A. and B.S. as Preparation for Graduate School
Graduate and professional schools primarily consider your coursework, emphasizing your GPA, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores (if required). If you are interested and excel in subjects like Calculus, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, you may favor the B.S. degree, whereas the B.A. degree suits those primarily interested in the various disciplines within Psychology and those seeking flexibility for minors, concentrations, or double majors.
The B.S. and B.A. degrees are equally acceptable for students interested in pursuing graduate programs in Psychology and pre-professional schools(check with the pre-health and pre-law advisors for details). There is a good deal of overlap between the B.S. degree and many health profession program requirements, so students interested in pursuing further professional programs in health fields such as Dental, Medical, Optometry, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Podiatry, and Veterinary typically opt for the Psychology B.S. degree. Psychology majors who are pre-Nursing generally are recommended to elect the B.A. degree as it overlaps better than the Psychology B.S. with their requirements.
The most important aspect of your choice is to determine what courses would best prepare you for the programs to which you may be applying. For guidance, take advantage of campus resources, such as Pre-Health Advising and Pre-Law Advising. There are additionally many external online resources, such as Gradschools.com and Petersons.com.
If you're uncertain about which degree pathway to pursue, we recommend making an appointment with one of our Psychology academic advisors. They can discuss whether the B.A. or B.S. degree aligns best with your long-term goals