Key Takeaways
- Each degree, BA, BSc, and BBA, offers a distinct path with different academic focuses and career outcomes.
- The key to choosing the right one is alignment with your long-term career goals, personal interests, and strengths.
- BA degrees are great for students interested in broad, creative, or people-centered fields.
- BSc degrees suit those who enjoy technical, analytical, or science-based problem-solving.
- BBA degrees are ideal for aspiring business professionals looking for practical, leadership-oriented training.
- There’s no “better than the other” degree, only what’s better for you based on where you see yourself in the future.
Some of the most critical decisions in our lives are those concerning our education. For those of us who find it challenging to make decisions, considering pursuing higher education can be nerve-racking. In addition to choosing a career, you also have to decide what kind of university program you want to enroll in. If you weren’t aware that there is more than one type of bachelor’s degree – you are not the only one. In this article, we present three types of bachelor’s degrees and how they differ from one another so you can choose what fits your needs and goals best.
What Is a BA Degree?
A Bachelor of Arts degree or a BA is a four-year undergraduate degree that one can obtain in a university or college. A BA program is generally more extensive with less specialized courses, accentuating humanities or human society and culture courses. Universities and colleges offer BA programs in several disciplines like education, journalism, English language and literature, sociology, etc.
How long does it take to get a BA degree?
Depending on the country, it generally takes three to four years to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree. In the US, a BA program typically takes four years. Although four years is the time it would take a full-time student to complete the required 120-130 credit hours to obtain a BA degree, this isn’t always the case. It often takes students more than four years to complete a BA program because they juggle studying and working or family responsibilities. On the other hand, some universities offer accelerated bachelor’s programs for students who want to graduate up to a year earlier and have more flexibility in their classes.
Benefits of earning a Bachelor of Arts degree
A Bachelor of Arts degree is very versatile and can lead to career opportunities in a wide range of fields. With a BA degree, you can pursue careers in education, business, technology, history, etc. Some of the most common career choices for someone with a Bachelor of Arts degree are:
- Teacher
- Counselor
- Social worker
- Government officer
- Historian
- Writer
- Artist
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BAU), the median salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree is considerably higher than for someone with only a high school diploma. Obtaining a BA can be the first step towards a more specialized career.
What Is a BSc Degree?
A Bachelor of Science or BSc degree is also an undergraduate degree obtained in postsecondary education. Compared to a BA degree, a BSc program is more focused with more specialized courses on science, mathematics, technology, or engineering. Some of the most common BSc concentrations include business, social sciences, education, communications, engineering, etc.
How long does it take to get a BSc degree?
A Bachelor of Science (BSc) program typically lasts four years in the US, meaning it takes four years for full-time students to fulfill the requirements, i.e., credit hours to obtain a BSc. Similarly, students can get a Bachelor of Science degree in three to four years, depending on the country. However, some universities offer part-time programs for students who wish to pursue a BSc while working or taking care of other obligations.
Benefits of earning a Bachelor of Science degree
A Bachelor of Science degree can be the perfect first step towards your desired career. Depending on your specialization, a BSc can lead to a number of diverse and advantageous careers such as:
- Research scientist
- Clinical research specialist
- Lab technician
- Biochemist
- Assistant professor
- Assistant nurse
- IT technician
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, you can increase your earning potential even in entry-level positions by obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Furthermore, a Bachelor of Science degree can lead to a number of fulfilling careers which naturally increases job satisfaction.
What Is a BBA Degree?
A Bachelor of Business Administration or BBA is yet another type of undergraduate degree. Students enrolled in a BBA program attend classes designed to prepare them for a career in the business world. A BBA program offers courses that cover the basic principles of business. The most common BBA specializations include management, finance, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, etc.
How long does it take to get a BBA degree?
It typically takes students three to four years to complete the required 120 credit hours and obtain a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Many universities offer students the choice of completing a BBA program full-time, part-time, or online.
Benefits of earning a Bachelor of Business Administration
A Bachelor of Business Administration degree is one of the most sought-after undergraduate degrees. Pursuing a BBA is perfect for those interested in business careers. BBA opens doors to a variety of careers, including but not limited to:
- Marketing manager
- Accountant
- Financial advisor
- Human resources specialist
- Sales manager
- Market research analyst
- Management analyst
According to the BLS, obtaining a bachelor’s degree, including a BBA, increases job opportunities. Pursuing a BBA degree is a great way to build a professional network that can later help you advance in your career.
BA vs BS vs BBA: Key Differences
Choosing between a BA, BSc, or BBA can shape the direction of your education and career. While all three are undergraduate degrees, each offers a distinct academic focus and skill set. Understanding these differences is key to making a strategic decision that aligns with your strengths, interests, and long-term goals.
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Curriculum structure and focus
The curriculum of a BA (Bachelor of Arts) emphasizes a broader and more theoretical approach, with coursework spanning humanities, social sciences, and liberal arts. It often allows more flexibility in course selection and encourages interdisciplinary learning. In contrast, a BSc (Bachelor of Science) program is more specialized and technical, with a strong focus on scientific or analytical disciplines such as computer science, engineering, or biology. A BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) is the most career-focused of the three, with its entire structure centered around business subjects like marketing, finance, management, and entrepreneurship.
Skills developed
Each degree type also fosters different core skills. A BA typically cultivates soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, writing, and creativity. A BSc, on the other hand, emphasizes analytical reasoning, scientific problem-solving, and data interpretation. Meanwhile, a BBA equips students with business and leadership skills, including strategic thinking, project management, and financial analysis, making it ideal for those aiming for roles in the corporate world.
Typical career paths
Career outcomes also differ across these degrees. BA graduates often pursue roles such as communications specialist, policy analyst, or social worker. BSc graduates tend to enter technical or research-driven roles like data analyst, software developer, or lab technician. Those with a BBA typically move into business-related careers, such as marketing manager, financial analyst, or business consultant.
Flexibility and further studies
All three degrees can serve as strong foundations for further education, but their paths vary. A BA can lead to graduate programs in education, public administration, international relations, or law. A BSc opens doors to master’s degree or doctoral study in STEM fields, data science, healthcare, or engineering. A BBA is often the first step toward advanced business education, including MBA programs, finance degrees, or specialized certifications. The University of the Potomac offers a variety of Master’s and Doctorate programs to support students in pursuing their next academic or professional goals.
How to Choose the Right Degree
Choosing a degree can be a long process, which is why it’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out right away. Start by reflecting on a few key areas: your career goals, personal interests, and academic strengths. What kind of work energizes you? Which subjects have always come naturally? Do you enjoy creative exploration, hands-on problem-solving, or leading teams toward a shared goal?
It’s also important to think beyond today. Consider long-term job market trends and how industries are evolving. For example, tech and data-driven roles may favor a BSc, while business innovation and entrepreneurship may align more with a BBA. If you’re passionate about culture, people, or communication, a BA might be the most fulfilling path. And don’t forget your learning style—some students thrive in theoretical discussion, while others prefer structure, numbers, or practical training.
Ultimately, the “right” degree is one that not only matches your current interests but also moves you toward the life and career you envision for your future. It’s okay if that vision grows and changes because what matters is that you choose a path that gives you room to grow. Let your decision be guided by who you are and who you hope to become.
Conclusion
In the end, each degree, whether it’s a BA, BSc, or BBA, offers a unique approach to learning and career preparation. The differences lie in focus and structure, but all three can open doors to meaningful opportunities. What’s most important is choosing a degree that aligns with your long-term goals, personal interests, and strengths. Whether you’re drawn to creative thinking, technical problem-solving, or strategic business leadership, your choice should reflect the kind of impact you want to make in the world.
No path is inherently better, just better suited to the individual. At the University of the Potomac, we’re committed to helping you find the path that fits. With a range of flexible and career-relevant BA, BSc, and BBA programs, we provide the support and education needed to help you grow confidently toward your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more valuable, BBA or BS?
The value of a BBA or BS depends on your career goals. A BBA is ideal if you’re focused on entering the business world right after graduation, especially in roles like marketing, finance, or management. A BS, however, may be more valuable for careers in science, technology, or research-based fields. Think about which degree aligns best with the industry and job type you’re aiming for.
Can you switch from a BA to a BS at the same school?
Yes, switching from a BA to a BS is possible at many schools, but it depends on the program structure and requirements. Since BS degrees often have more technical or math-heavy coursework, you may need to complete additional credits or prerequisites. It’s a good idea to talk to an academic advisor early if you’re considering this change.
Is a BBA considered a BA or BS degree?
A BBA is a distinct degree from both a BA and BS. While it shares some characteristics with both (such as general education requirements), it is specifically tailored to business education. Some institutions may categorize it alongside BA or BS degrees for administrative purposes, but academically, the BBA stands on its own with a focused curriculum in business and management.
