BSc vs BA: Difference, Syllabus, Salary, Career options
Students who have completed their board exams of class 12th or appearing in the board exam next year are often confused about which undergraduate course to choose. This article of Shiksha will give you a deep understanding of what all parameters need to be kept in mind before taking admission in BSc vs BA course. Check complete details
After completing the 12th standard exams, almost every student gets confused about which BSc and BA courses to choose. According to a famous quote, “Tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today”. Hence students after completing their academics need to be prepared and insightful about which course to choose to pursue. They must choose their higher education which will help him/her to complete their future goals.
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Even though applicants preparing for JEE Main or NEET also enroll in these courses the probability of qualifying for these exams is very difficult. This article is about BSc vs BA courses and will explore and discuss the dimensions of possibility in terms of duration, eligibility, popular exams, career options, expected salary, etc. Read the complete article on the BSc vs BA degree programme before opting for any specific career option.
Q: Is the NEST syllabus similar to the NEET exam?
No, the syllabus of NEST exam is different from the NEET exam. Though there may be some topics or sub topics which can be considered in both these exams but it is not identical syllabus to one another.
The NEET syllabus comprises three sections which are Physics, Chemistry and Biology whereas in NEST exam along with these three the Mathematics topic is also there.
Applicants are advised to check the detailed description about both these subjects in detailed and accordingly prepare for the exam.
Q: What is the advantage of conducting NEST exam in CBT Mode?
The NEST exam is a computer-based test (CBT). This means that the exam is conducted on computers, and candidates are required to answer the questions on the computer screen.
The CBT mode of exam has many advantages over the traditional pen-and-paper mode, including:
- Accuracy: CBT exams are more accurate than pen-and-paper exams because there is no risk of human error in scanning and grading the answer sheets.
- Efficiency: CBT exams are more efficient than pen-and-paper exams because the results can be released more quickly.
- Security: CBT exams are more secure than pen-and-paper exams because it is more difficult to cheat on a CBT exam.
What is BSc?
BSc stands for Bachelor of Science. It is an undergraduate course of science stream that can be pursued in any specialisations available. The duration of this course is three years which is further divided into six semesters. Some popular BSc courses are in subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Nursing, and Physics. Candidates after completing their education from any of these courses can become IT Experts, Healthcare Experts, Analytical Chemists, Technology Consultants, Physicists, Risk Analysts, Teachers, etc.
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What is BA?
The full form of the BA course is Bachelor of Arts. Normally the duration of a BA course is three years and it is taught to students for six semesters. Various subjects are taught in BA courses i.e. English, Hindi, Journalism, Sociology, History, Geography, Political Science, Literature, Public Administration, etc. After completing the education from any of these courses applicants can make a career in any of the following streams Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising, Content Writing, Copywriting, Teaching, Public Policy, Civil Service, Public Relations, Political Science, Art Therapy, Performing Arts etc.
BSc vs BA: Highlights
| Parameter Details |
BSc Course |
BA Course |
| Full Form |
Bachelor of Science |
Bachelor of Arts |
| Duration |
3 years |
3 years |
| Eligibility |
Class 12th exams from a recognized school |
Class 12th exams from a recognized school |
| Popular Entrance Exams |
NEST, CUET UG, OUAT Entrance exam, UPCATET, Rajasthan JET Agriculture |
|
| Average Course Fees |
INR 15,000 to 1.5 Lakh |
INR 10,000 to 1 Lakh |
| Popular Career Options |
Scientists, Information Technology, Software Development, Healthcare Experts, Physicist, Analytical Chemists, Technology Consultants, Risk Analysts, Teachers, Civil Services, etc |
Social Worker, Content Writer, Teacher, Fine Arts, Journalism and Mass Media, Literature, Civil Services, Advertising & Marketing, Public Administration etc |
| Average Salary |
INR 2 to 4 LPA |
INR 1.5 to 2.5 LPA |
Difference Between BSc and BA
While comparing the two courses, the first and major difference between them is that one is related to the Science Domain and the second is the Arts Domain. The main difference between a BSc and a BA degree is mainly due to the subjects and disciplines it emphasises.
Some key distinctions to identify the differences are mentioned below:
| Parameter |
Differences |
| Subject Focus |
BSc programmes typically focus on scientific, technical, and mathematical subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, etc. On the other hand, BA programme generally emphasizes Humanities, Social sciences, and Liberal Arts subjects like English, History, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Political Science, etc. |
| Core Curriculum |
BSc degrees have a stronger emphasis on core science courses and practical laboratory work. Students in BSc programmes often take a series of sequential courses within their chosen scientific field. B A programme, on the other hand, typically has a broader range of elective courses, allowing students to explore various disciplines. |
| Skill Orientation |
BSc degrees generally give students a more specialized and technical skill set in their chosen scientific discipline. Graduates often acquire analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills relevant to their field. BA programme, on the other hand, tends to develop skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and creative expression. |
| Career Paths |
Career options for BSc graduates often include scientific research, engineering, healthcare, technology, data analysis, and other technical fields. BA graduates often find opportunities in fields such as education, communications, media, social services, government, business, arts and culture, writing, and research. |
BSc Syllabus vs BA Syllabus
There are different syllabi for both BSc and BA courses. Some of the popular subjects that are taught in BSc are Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, Zoology, Biology, Bio-Technology, IT, Statistics etc. Some of the popular subjects that are taught in BA are English, Hindi, Literature, History, Geography, Psychology, Political Science, Liberal Arts, Music, etc.
BA Subject Syllabus
Applicants can check some of the popular subjects in the syllabus mentioned below
| Subject |
Syllabus |
| Bachelor of Arts in Psychology |
Introduction to Psychology, Development of Psychological, Statistical Methods for Psychological Research, Dealing with Psychological Disorders, Psychology of Individual Differences, Psychology for Health and Well-being |
| Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy |
Indian Philosophy, Philosophy of Religion (Indian & Western), Philosophy of Language (Indian & Western), Social and Political Philosophy: Indian and Western, Applied Ethics, Logic, Greek Philosophy and Ethics, Text of Indian and Western Philosophy, Truth Functional Logic |
| Bachelor of Arts in English |
English Literature, Twentieth Century Indian Writing, Nineteenth Century European Realism, Classical Literature and Contemporary Literature, Modern European Drama, Women’s Writing of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries |
| Bachelor of Arts in Political Science |
Constitutional Government and Democracy in India, Understanding Political Theory, Modern Indian Political Thought and Modern Political Philosophy, Introduction to Comparative Government & Politics, Perspectives on Public Administration, Perspectives on International Relations, |
| Bachelor of Arts in Economics |
Introductory Microeconomics, Intermediate Microeconomics, Mathematical Methods for Economics, Statistical Methods for Economics, Introductory Macroeconomics |
| Bachelor of Arts in History |
History of India, History of Modern East Asia, Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Medieval World, Rise of Modern West, History of Modern Europe, Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World, History Of Southeast Asia-The 19th Century, |
BSc Subject Syllabus
Candidates can check the the syllabus of some popular subjects which are most opted.
| Subject |
Syllabus |
| Mathematics |
Statistics, Analytical Solid Geometry, Probability, Calculus, Differential Equations, Abstract Algebra, Mechanics, Discrete Mathematics Linear programmeming & Its Applications, Complex Analysis Numerical Analysis |
| Physics |
Properties of Matter, Kinetic Theory of Gases, Electricity Magnetism and electromagnetic Theory, Classical Mechanics & theory of relativity, Semiconductor Devices, Computer programmeming and Thermodynamics, Statistical Physics, Wave and Optics I, Wave and Optics II, Quantum and Laser Physics, Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy, Nuclear Physics, Solid-State and Nano Physics |
| Chemistry |
Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Molecular Modelling and Drug Design, Polymer Chemistry, Instrumental Methods of Chemical Analysis, Application of Computer in Chemistry, Industrial Chemicals and Environment, Chemoinformatics, Basic Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Technology and Society, Analytical Chemical Biochemistry |
| Computer Science |
Discrete Mathematics, Basics of Computer Science, Computer Organization, Foundation course in Mathematics, Object-Oriented programmeming using C++, System Analysis and design, Introduction to Data Structures, Numerical Analysis, Introduction to Computer Network, System programmeming and Operating System |
| Biology |
Light and Life, Biophysics, Biodiversity, Protein and Enzymes, Cell Biology, Ecology, Medical Botany, Bio-fertilizers, Systems Physiology, Molecular Biology, Metabolism and Integration, Public Health and Management, Biochemical Techniques, Growth and Reproduction, Genetics, Stress Biology, Animal Behaviour and Chrono-Biology, Endocrinology and Plant Biochemistry |
Also Read: MBA After BSc: Eligibility, Specialisations, Syllabus, Salary, Career Options, Admission, Fees
BSc vs BA: Career
Applicants who are curious after graduation about the possibility of future opportunities after completing BSc and BA degree programmes can check the below-mentioned points.
BSc Career Paths:
- Research Scientist
- Software Developer
- Biotechnologist
- Data Analyst
- Engineer
BA Career Paths:
- Journalist
- Teacher
- Social Worker
- Writer/Author
- Marketing Professional
BSc vs BA: Salary
The salary plays a vital role in driving the future of an applicant. Hence students often become curious about the average or maximum salary can one get after pursuing BSc or BA courses. Since alone completing any of these courses often fetches an early entry position in any organization hence candidates do master's in their related streams to grab a good job along with a good salary package. The BSc vs BA salary average range is mentioned below.
BSc Salary Range:
-
Varies by specialization and industry.
-
Higher earning potential in fields like Information Technology, Engineering, and Healthcare.
-
BSc Average Salary lies between INR 2 to 4 LPA
BA Salary Range:
- Varied based on chosen profession.
- Competitive salaries in fields such as Marketing, Journalism, and Education.
- BA Average Salary lies between INR 1.5 to 2.5 LPA
Add a source to the salary data
BSc vs BA: Top Colleges in India
Various colleges offer BSc and BA courses in different subjects and colleges are very popular due to this. The list of some top colleges that offer BSc courses as well as BA courses is mentioned in below given table.
| Top BSc Colleges in India |
Top BA Colleges in India |
St Stephen's College, New Delhi |
Lady Shri Ram College for Women - [LSR], New Delhi |
| Loyola College, Chennai |
|
Lady Shri Ram College for Women - [LSR], New Delhi |
St. Xavier's College, Mumbai |
Christ University, Bangalore |
|
Madras Christian College - [MCC], Chennai |
Presidency College, Chennai |
BSc vs BA FAQs
Is BSc harder than BA?
Both courses have different subjects hence it is difficult to compare the two degree programmes but since BSc has science subjects and BA has arts and humanities subjects it can be said that BSc is harder than BA because to pass Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology is difficult than passing of English, Hindi, Psychology, etc.
Which course has greater career scopes BSc or BA?
It varies from the subjects chosen by applicants while pursuing a BSc or BA course because passing BA and BSc courses will fetch you a good job rarely do you need to do any other additional courses i.e MBA, CA, MSc, MCA, or preparation of any competitive exam to make a good career in future.
Which course BA or BSc offers a better salary after completing it?
Though mainly it depends on the courses completed after the finishing of BA / BSc courses. Applicants who do MBA, CA, or engineering have higher chances of getting good salary compensation.
What is the difference between a normal BSc degree and BSc Honours?
The main difference between a normal BSc degree and BSc Honours is that the latter requires more research and study compared to the other. Applicants who do BSc Honours instead of normal BSc courses are more likely to get an upper hand or edge over the other.
Can I do both a BA and a BSc degree at the same time?
Yes, anyone can do both BA and BSc degree courses at the same time but either of them can be full-time while the other has to be distance learning or part-time courses. It is completely legal and candidates who want to earn dual degrees do this.
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