Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts? Understanding European Degrees and Your Study Path
Confused by BA, BSc, MA, MSc or PhD? Learn the difference between European degree types and how to choose the right path for your goals.
Choosing the Right Degree in Europe
If you’re looking at universities in Europe, you’ve probably come across different degree types: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), and PhD.
It can feel confusing, but understanding these labels can help you choose a study path that matches your interests and future goals.
What’s the Difference Between a BA and a BSc?
Bachelor of Arts (BA): Usually focused on subjects in the humanities, social sciences, languages, and creative fields. Expect more essay-based assessments, discussion rounds, brainstorming sessions, critical thinking, and broad theoretical perspectives.
Example fields: Psychology, Languages, International Relations, Marketing & Communications.
Bachelor of Science (BSc): More technical and research-driven, often with lab work or data analysis. Strong emphasis on maths, statistics, and practical application based on real data insights.
Example fields: Biology, Engineering, Computer Science, Economics.
But: the difference isn’t always strict: at some universities, you can study the same subject as either a BA or BSc (e.g., Psychology), with the BSc version being more quantitative.
What About Masters and PhDs?
Master of Arts (MA): A deeper dive into humanities, social sciences or creative disciplines. Often more discussion-based and analytical.
Master of Science (MSc): Research-heavy and technical, focusing on advanced data, research methods, and practical application.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): The highest academic qualification in Europe. A PhD is research-based and usually takes 3–4 years. You’ll create original work that contributes to your field.
Why Does It Matter?
Employability: Employers may prefer one type of degree depending on the field. For example, data roles may lean toward BSc graduates, while communication or policy jobs may look for BA graduates.
Postgraduate Choices: If you plan to continue to a Master’s or PhD, your undergraduate degree should align with that path.
International Recognition: Across Europe, these degree types are well understood thanks to the Bologna Process, which standardises higher education. That means a BSc from Germany and a BSc from Spain are broadly comparable.
How to Figure Out What’s Right for You
Think about what you enjoy most: numbers, labs, and research, or critical thinking, writing, and discussion?
Check course structures carefully. Reach out to the University representative and ask if they can shortly describe the study methods for the study you’re looking at. Even for the same subject, the balance of theory vs. practice can differ.
Consider your long-term goals: Do you want to move into a technical, data-driven role, or a more creative, strategic career?
Talk to alumni, student forums, or guidance counsellors to hear first-hand experiences.
Example Study Path in Europe - full academic
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (3 years) → MSc in Data Science (2 years) → PhD in Artificial Intelligence (3–4 years) → Careers in academia, research, or tech industry.
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (3 years) → MA in European Studies (2 years) → PhD in Political Science (3–4 years) → Careers in government, NGOs, or international organisations.
Note: I would suggest to find a Bachelor that seems interesting for you first. The path of academia is not that strict nowadays anymore. If you’re really burning for a specific topic but your Bachelors was in a different field, don’t worry. There will be a way to go for that Masters!
Look at this cute boy!
Final Thoughts
Alright, let’s wrap it up. Whether you choose a BA, BSc, MA, MSc, or PhD, the most important thing is that it fits your interests and goals. The degree type gives you a clue about the focus of the program, but it’s the content, skills, and opportunities that will shape your future.
Personal example: I chose Creative Business (BA) because it gave me a broad understanding of multiple topics. I know somewhat that I want to do something entrepreneurial but I needed a direction first. And - it worked out perfectly for me.
StudyfinderAI can help you explore different programs across Europe and find the path that makes the most sense for you. Sign up here for the free Beta Version.
I hope this short blog gives some clarity!
Talk soon,
