MA vs. MS

So, what is MA? Put plainly, the MA or Master of Arts degree is a graduate degree that focuses predominantly on disciplines such as the humanities and liberal arts. Communications, English, Teaching, Literature, Linguistics, Art, and Languages are among the subjects where most Master of Arts degrees are available. Seminars, which are firmly based debates about the topic matter, are the primary learning mode for Master of Arts degrees, along with research and discussion.

The Master of Arts master’s degree program usually requires about two years to complete and sometimes requires a thesis to be submitted towards the end of the program.

Moving on to the next question of what is an MS? The MS degree, meaning Master of Science degree, is typically reserved for more scientific or mathematical programs. Computer Science, Biochemistry, Engineering, Economics, Mathematics, and Public Health are examples of these types of studies. Students who pursue a master’s degree in science should expect to spend much time with lab work, doing scientific research, analyzing data, and evaluating it.

Unlike the MA degree type, where a thesis may not always be required to be submitted, it is pretty standard for the MS degree to insist on one, depending on the program. The thesis can last anywhere from six to nine units and will need a substantial study on the chosen topic and the use of various research methods. Students must defend their thesis by synthesizing what they have learned in class, along with other data obtained from their own lab work.

The Master of Science usually requires about two years to complete but may sometimes take longer under certain circumstances and typically requires a thesis to be submitted towards the end of the program.

The main difference between a Master of Arts vs. Master of Science lies in instructional methods. While the MA is more discussion, debate, and seminar-oriented, the MS relies heavily on research, analysis, and evaluation. Another critical difference between MA and MS is that the MA is more theoretical in its approach, with its roots in humanities, while the MS is more scientific in its approach, with its roots in sciences.

Fortunately, employers generally do not differentiate between the two fields of study and regard them equally. While choosing a degree type, it is essential for the student to know his/her personal objectives and professional and career goals. For those who prefer taking up subjects in humanities, the Master of Arts is the ideal option. On the other hand, for those with good logical and mathematical skills and a keen interest in sciences, the Master of Science is more apt – an example being a counseling degree.

Overall, however, the distinction between both a Master of Arts and Master of Science degree programs is minor and insignificant. In the end, obtaining either master’s degree that leads to a rich and rewarding career is the accurate measure of accomplishment.