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Master of Arts or Master of Science Degree: Choose Your Path

A master’s degree empowers you to expand your knowledge, learn specialized skills, increase your earning potential, and distinguish yourself from other job candidates in your industry. Depending on your field, a master’s degree might even be required by potential employers. However, not all master’s degrees are the same, which makes it important to weigh your options carefully when applying to programs. 

There are two main types of master’s degrees students can pursue: a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS). So, how do you know whether a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree is right for you? How are they different, and which one is better? And what are some potential alternative programs to consider exploring? 

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This MA vs. MS comparison answers all those questions and provides a quick guide to terminal degrees like the MFA. 

Benefits of Holding a Master’s Degree

Before we start comparing MA programs against MS programs, it’s important to emphasize that both degrees can help you advance your career — not to mention your salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), workers who hold master’s degrees earn $244 more on average per week — $1,737 total — than workers with bachelor’s degrees, who earn an average of $1,493 per week.

However, the benefits of a master’s degree are more than just financial. Earning your master’s degree can also distinguish you from less educated job candidates, giving you a valuable edge in a crowded, competitive labor market. For some occupations or job titles, a master’s degree might even be mandatory, making it not just beneficial but essential. 

A master’s degree program also provides the opportunity to develop a niche, specialized area of expertise within a broader field. For example, a student who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice might pursue a master’s degree in forensic science, enabling them to specialize in areas like advanced forensic toxicology or serology.

Whether you decide to pursue an MS or MA, a master’s degree can heighten your earning power, deepen your knowledge base, and qualify you for positions or titles that might otherwise be unattainable. 

However, with all of those points in mind, there are still some important differences that program applicants need to consider. Let’s look at some of the major differences between a Master of Science degree and a Master of Arts degree, along with some examples of the coursework you might find in each. 

What’s the Difference Between a Master of Arts and Master of Science Degree? 

The Master of Arts and Master of Science are both rigorous degrees that, for many programs, can be earned online or in person — usually over the course of one to two years, depending on the student’s courseload and program schedule. However, that’s where the similarities between MS and MA programs end: they cover different types of topics, take different approaches to research, and even conclude with different types of projects when the program ends. 

Let’s take a closer look at the Master of Science vs. Master of Arts and how they compare for students.

Courses and curriculum

The first and biggest difference between the MS and MA is the type of subjects covered.

The Master of Arts focuses broadly on humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Some examples of MA degrees include: 

The Master of Science, on the other hand, is a type of degree that typically focuses on the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and math. Some examples of MS degrees include: 

Approach to learning

MA degree programs heavily emphasize seminars, in-depth discussions, critical analysis, and theoretical knowledge. By comparison, MS programs tend to be focused on scientific or technical expertise. As a result, MS degree programs typically emphasize lab work, technical training, and conducting scientific research. 

Final project

An MA degree program typically culminates in a final project like a thesis paper or other original scholarly work. In contrast, most MS degree programs culminate with a research project that demonstrates the student’s ability to apply their knowledge in practical, real-world settings. 

Woman working on laptop

Which is Better: Earning an MS or MA? 

Is it better to earn a Master of Arts or Science degree? 

The answer to this question is different for every student because, ultimately, it depends on two factors that vary from person to person: 

  • Personal Interests — MS programs are focused on math, technology, and scientific research, while MA programs are focused on art, language, theory, and discussion. Depending on what types of topics you’re passionate about — and what approaches to learning appeal to you — an MS vs. MA might be more compatible with your strengths and interests. 
  • Professional Goals — To enter certain professions, like clinical psychology, you’ll typically need a master’s degree. Some employers might not have a preference, but others could favor a specific type, such as an MS for a more science-focused role or an MA for a role emphasizing broader psychological theories. It’s important to research potential employers in your field to see which degree they value more. This way, you can pursue the degree that aligns best with the job market and increases your chances of success in your chosen career path.

How to Choose Between an MS and MA

For certain majors or fields, an MS or MA might be the only option available. Others, however, offer students a choice between both types of programs — for example, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology vs. a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Both deal with counseling, psychology, and mental health — but since one is an MA while the other is an MS, the programs follow different approaches and emphasize different skills.

When you’re deciding what sort of master’s degree to pursue — whether it’s an MA, an MS, or a terminal degree like an MFA — target the program you think most closely aligns with your strengths and aspirations. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you narrow down your list: 

  • Do you prefer studying STEM topics like math and science or humanities like history and psychology? 
  • What types of hard skills and soft skills do you want to cultivate? 
  • What area of your field do you want to specialize in? 
  • What sorts of educational backgrounds do most of your peers and colleagues have or are pursuing? 
  • What are your salary requirements? 
  • What sorts of grants, loans, or scholarships are available? 
  • Would you rather study online, in person, or a combination of both? 
Man sitting on sofa with computer and headset

What is a Terminal Master’s Degree? 

Most master’s degrees fall into the MA or MS category, such as the MA in Human Resources Management or MS in Health Informatics. 

However, in addition to the Master of Science and Master of Arts, there is also another type of master’s degree known as a “terminal degree.” 

Put simply, a terminal degree is the final and highest degree that a person can earn in their field of study. Some examples of terminal degrees that are also master’s degrees include: 

Otherwise, terminal degrees are typically doctorate degrees, such as a  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Juris Doctor (JD). 

Artificial intelligence (AI) models, like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, have been the biggest and most disruptive game-changers to hit the economy since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Countless companies and industries are changing their entire approach to business — and demanding new skills from their teams. 

Not only is AI impacting existing jobs, but also creating new ones — and the competition to fill those roles is intense. For example, a recent study by National University revealed that approximately two-thirds of all AI-related job openings now require a master’s degree. 

No matter what sorts of technologies your industry relies on, completing a master’s degree can help you develop high-value, in-demand skills — while also showing potential employers that you’re passionate about the field and are committed to your professional growth. 

man sitting on couch taking notes as he flips through textbook

What if I Don’t Feel Ready for a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree isn’t the only option for furthering your postgraduate education. Whether you aim to grow your knowledge, gain marketable skills, increase your earning power, or change careers, you can move closer to your goal by completing a professional certification program. 

Certificate programs are typically more affordable, more flexible, and faster to complete than master’s degree programs. Depending on the program, some certifications can be completed in as little as three to six months, while other long-term certificates require several years to complete. Numerous certification programs can be completed partially or fully online, including the following programs at National University: 

In addition to earning a certificate, consider enrolling in professional development courses and focusing on accumulating more job and internship experience. There are numerous paths toward success, so embrace taking the time in your career to gain clarity and professional expertise. 

 

Further Your Education with National University

Take the next step in your career by earning your master’s degree from National University, a Yellow Ribbon School that proudly supports our veterans and service members. NU offers a wide range of accredited MA and MS programs in engineering, IT, accounting, business, public health, nursing, marketing, psychology, criminal justice, and more, including: 

With convenient evening, weekend, and online courses, NU empowers you to study at your own pace, perfect for busy students who need flexibility. Whether you complete your program online or on campus, you’ll find a challenging, cutting-edge curriculum, numerous options for financial aid, and a supportive resource network for veterans and military students.
Learn more about master’s degree programs at National University, or start your application to NU online today.

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