BA vs. BS in psychology: Which undergraduate degree is right for you

A bachelor’s degree in psychology can serve as a great starting point for a range of different careers in the field. You’ll start to notice a number of different degree options as you begin mapping out your own educational journey — and you may not fully understand the distinctions between them.

As you plan your path to earning an undergraduate degree in psychology, you’ll need to decide whether you want to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). Both degrees train students in foundational psychological theories and practices, covering topics like human behavior, mental health conditions, and cognitive processes.

The decision between a BA versus a BS in psychology will depend on your personal and professional goals. Join us as we break down the differences you can expect to encounter.

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Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Science in Psychology: What’s the difference?

Whether you complete a BA or BS in psychology, you’ll be taught to extend empathy to others, evaluate and understand the needs of clients, and work in the best interest of those around you. These degree paths differ most prominently when it comes to elective courses.

BS students, for example, are typically encouraged to take more laboratory science and mathematics courses to prepare them for research-intensive graduate programs and related careers. This may translate to courses in neuroscience, statistical analysis, and clinical psychology. Many go on to pursue specializations such as workplace, developmental, and addiction psychology, which may require a master’s degree.

Conversely, BA students can expect more elective course offerings that focus on cognitive, behavioral, and social psychology, alongside classes in history, political science, and sociology. The curriculum often focuses on elements like culture, language, and communication, better positioning them for a future in counseling or therapy. Some BA graduates may also pursue specialized tracks in areas like forensics or social work.

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What to expect from a BA in Psychology

Bachelor of Arts programs aim to provide psychology graduates with the communication and critical-thinking skills needed for positions like social service case workers, human resources specialists, and nonprofit program associates. The BA in Psychology at Bellevue University, for example, prepares students for careers in counseling and human services with a commitment to keep pace with the evolving needs of the field.

Counseling and therapy careers have begun to rely more heavily on a strong backbone of data and research to inform their work. That’s why Bellevue University offers a research-focused psychology degree for therapy careers and beyond. BA students learn how to implement scholarly research in preparation for future graduate study and as a means to demonstrate good evidence-based practice.

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What to expect from a BS in Psychology

Bachelor of Science programs strive to equip psychology graduates with the analytical and research skills required for positions like psychiatric technicians, laboratory assistants, career counselors, and rehabilitation case workers. Coursework often emphasizes biology, chemistry, and other natural sciences alongside mathematics and statistics.

The BS in Psychology at Bellevue University, for example, pushes beyond concept and theory to teach students how to apply scientific and statistical analysis in their work. Graduates exit the program with a dynamic portfolio that will demonstrate their analytical and problem-solving skills — elements that could set them apart to employers or graduate program admissions committees.

This research-intensive degree program helps students build a broad knowledge of psychology theory while also providing them with the hands-on skills needed to apply that knowledge in the workplace.

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Find the right psychology degree for you

When it comes to a BA versus a BS in psychology, the differences may seem somewhat minor. But if you have specific career aspirations in mind, you’ll want to ensure you’re laying the proper foundation.

Whichever route you choose to pursue, the good news is that all undergraduate psychology programs at Bellevue University provide students with a range of important skills. Graduates learn to:

• Propose and conduct a professional, scientific research study from start to finish
• Analyze and interpret research findings for application in counseling or human services
• Present research clearly for the appropriate audience
• Work with technology broadly used in the psychology field, including SPSS (Statistical Package for the Sciences)
• Take the GRE and move into graduate programs in the field, such as a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

The high-quality, diverse curricula of the baccalaureate psychology programs at Bellevue University are delivered by supportive and esteemed educators who can help you make strides in your career, whichever direction you’re headed.

Learn more about what to expect by visiting the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Psychology program pages today.