MA vs MS: Choosing the Right Master's Program

The job market is constantly evolving, and so are the skills and knowledge that you need to keep up with the trends. One of the best ways to expand your horizon within your field is to pursue a master's degree. However, with this decision comes the challenge of choosing the right master's program for you: a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). As each program caters to different career paths and academic strengths, understanding the distinctions between the two is a step that cannot be overlooked. 

In this article, we will explore the MA vs. MS dilemma, focusing on the benefits of earning either degree, and what you need to consider when determining which one is better for you. 

What Is an MA Degree?

A Master of Arts (MA) degree is a specialized degree that helps you deepen your knowledge of a subject in the humanities, arts, and social sciences. These types of master’s programs take around two years to complete if you're able to attend full-time. You can earn an MA degree in a number of disciplines, such as:

• Anthropology
• Economics
• Communication
• Literature
• Political Science
• English
• Legal Studies
• Psychology
• Sociology

Although each program differs, your classes will likely include lectures and seminars. This class structure allows you to interact with professors and participate in discussions with peers. 

What Is an MS Degree?

A Master of Science (MS) degree is a graduate-level degree that builds on a bachelor's degree. It's generally technically oriented and focused on developing problem-solving and analytical skills. In a similar fashion to an MA degree, MS programs typically take two years to complete. You can earn an MS degree in a wide range of subjects, such as:

• Civil Engineering
• Accounting
• Business Analytics
• Marketing
• Psychology
• Statistics
• Data Science
• Cybersecurity.

Keep in mind that there isn't an absolute distinction between the focus areas of an MA and an MS—in fact, many disciplines, like economics and psychology, award both qualifications. In this case, whether a program is an MA or MS depends on the specific focus of the course.

For example, an MA in psychology focuses more on the practical application of psychology, whereas an MS in psychology emphasizes research and sciences. 

Difference Between MA and MS Degree

The primary differences between an MA and an MS degree lie in their admission requirements, coursework, final project, and career paths. Here’s a detailed comparison. 

Admission requirements

Although the admission requirements vary depending on the program and institution, in general, they include:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
• Scores on the Miller Analogies Test (MAT), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), or Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• A GPA of 2.5 or higher for all undergraduate work or 3.0 for the last 60 semester hours of undergraduate work
• Letters of recommendation 
• Resume
• Personal Statement
• Official transcripts.

While these admission requirements are similar for MA and MS degrees, in some cases, you may need to have work experience to apply for an MS degree. 

Curriculum

A critical difference between MA and MS programs is the curriculum, as each program approaches learning differently. The MA programs' curriculum typically focuses on in-depth knowledge and research skills in a particular subject within humanities, social sciences, or arts. It consists of core courses that cover essential theories and fundamental concepts of the disciplines and electives that allow you to explore different areas of interest. 

Conversely, the curriculum of MS programs typically focuses on advanced knowledge and research skills in scientific, technical, or quantitative fields. 

MA and MS programs also differ in the learning approach, as the learning mode in MS programs focuses on practice-based learning. This means you can participate in workshops, laboratory work, experiments, and lectures. 

Thesis vs non-thesis option 

Another difference between MA and MS programs is the thesis, which has different requirements depending on the program. For example, in MA programs, the thesis is elective, while in MS programs, it is obligatory. 

The non-thesis option is ideal if you want to enter the workforce faster and want to focus on developing practical skills and their real-life application. On the other hand, pursuing a thesis is ideal if you want to conduct extensive research and prepare for doctoral studies. 

Career paths

Both an MA and MS can lead to different career paths. An MA degree can lead to broader career paths, such as:

• Education: Special education teacher, curriculum developer, school counselor, principal, and elementary or secondary school teacher;
• Art and Design: Animator, music teacher, dance instructor, art teacher, graphic designer, and museum educator;
• Languages: Linguist, English as a second language teacher, translator, foreign correspondent, healthcare interpreter, and civil service employee;
• Human Services: Case manager, marriage and family therapist, social worker, probation manager, occupational therapist, and substance abuse counselor;
• Journalism and Communications: Copywriter, event manager, advertising manager, digital marketer, and staff writer. 

On the other hand, an MS degree opens doors for direct career paths related to specific fields of study, such as:

• Computer Science: Software engineer, cybersecurity manager, network architect, and computer systems architect; 
• Environmental Science: Environmental scientist, environmental lawyer, meteorologist, park ranger, and wildlife biologist;
• Engineering: Mechanical engineer, civil engineer, and chemical engineer;
• Mathematics: Cryptographer, math teacher, accountant, GIS analyst, data analyst, and operations research analyst;
• Public Health: Nutritionist, biostatistician, respiratory therapist, pharmacist, and healthcare administrator. 

There can be differences in potential career paths in fields with both MA and MS degree options, such as psychology. While an MA in psychology can lead to a career as a social worker, counselor, or clinical psychologist, an MS in psychology can lead to a career as a school psychologist or industrial-organizational psychologist. 

Benefits of an MA or MS 

Both degrees come with its sets of benefits. In the following paragraphs, we will examine how both degrees will enrich your professional and personal life. 

Career advancement

Many employers seek to fill senior positions with individuals who have advanced degrees in their fields. Therefore, an MA or MS degree can be a career booster, allowing you to move up to upper-level management positions with higher job security, and potentially a role with higher pay.

Getting a master's degree can give you the edge as you're more likely to receive a job offer than other candidates with a bachelor's or associate's degree. 

Higher earning potential

Another benefit to earning either an MA or MS degree is that a graduate degree can significantly increase your earning potential. According to BLS, the average weekly earnings of individuals holding a master's degree is $1,737, higher than the $1,493 earnings of those with a bachelor's degree.

Furthermore, BLS reports that employment for occupations requiring a master's degree is projected to grow by 11.3%.

Career flexibility

A significant benefit is that earning an MA or an MS will provide you with greater flexibility in career choices. With a master's degree, you'll possess advanced knowledge and skills, allowing you to become an expert in the field and thus opening more job opportunities in various industries.

Moreover, earning an MA or an MS can help you change your field. As many master's programs accept students with an unrelated bachelor's degree, you can make a mid-career change and explore something new. 

Credentials for further education

Lastly, an important benefit of earning a master’s degree is that it can serve as a stepping stone for a doctoral degree or specialized certifications. Earning a master’s degree is essential for further education in fields like healthcare, education, and technology.

Besides, earning a doctoral degree in these fields allows you to gain credibility and authority, have more job opportunities, and make advancements in a particular area of the field. 

Considerations for Choosing Between MA and MS

So, which one should you choose? While there isn't a direct answer to this question, to determine between an MA and an MS degree, you should look at different factors, such as:

• Personal Interests: You should reflect on subjects you're passionate about and enjoy studying. Consider whether you prefer theoretical discussions and qualitative analysis, emphasized in an MA program, or technical work and research, highlighted in an MS program. 
• Career Goals: The choice between an MA and an MS can significantly impact your career prospects and opportunities. Thus, it's essential to revisit your career goals. An MA might be a better fit if you aspire to work in humanities, social sciences, or arts. Conversely, if you see yourself in a career in science, engineering, or mathematics, an MS would be more suitable.
• Academic Strengths: Consider your academic background and strengths. If you excel in writing and critical thinking, an MA is ideal. On the other hand, if you possess problem-solving skills and are proficient in sciences and math, an MS may be better for you. 

Conclusion

As you contemplate the next steps in your academic and professional journey, it's important to align your decisions with your personal interests and career goals. An MA degree is ideal if you're drawn to the humanities, social sciences, and arts, whereas an MS if you're passionate about the sciences, technology, engineering, and research. Either way, both MA and MS degrees can be great options that allow you to build a solid foundation that can propel your career further. 

Ready to take the next step in your academic journey? Start by exploring different MA and MS programs, attending information sessions, and reaching out to admissions offices for detailed program information. 

FAQ:

Are there specific industries or fields where an MA degree is more valued than an MS degree, and vice versa?

Yes, there are. An MA is more valued in fields that value strong communication and critical thinking skills, like education, human services, and the arts. An MS is more sought after in fields where advanced knowledge and technical expertise are paramount, such as engineering, mathematics, and computer science.

How long does it typically take to complete an MA or MS program?

In general, both MA and MS programs take one to two years to complete if you’re a full-time student. If you’re a part-time student, the program can take up to six years to complete.