BA vs BS in Computer Science

[Yuri-G]

Cross-posting this to like a jillion websites so just gimme feedback if you're up for it, no big.


So here's the skinny: I need 31 more credits for a BS in Computer Science, but only 12 more for the BA. My question is, do I go for the BA or the BS? BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE! My job pays for one class per semester, so that 31 credits (8 classes) will take a while. I could handle 2 per semester if I took loans I think, and summer classes too, so that's an option. But it will realistically be about three, MAYBE two more years if I push myself. The BA would be done within a year, year-and-a-half at most.


I'm really torn on this. Clearly a BS is better, there's no question. In a void that's the right answer. But is it so much better that it's worth an additional year or two in a shitty job as I edge closer to 40? Can I get the same job with a BA as I would with a BS? Will my career advance at the same pace? Will it even matter once I'm set on a new career path and have shown people what I can accomplish, gotten more certifications, etc.?


Any and all thoughts and advice are appreciated. Really just looking for people who have insight in the field as to whether the BA vs BS makes a big difference, and if so, how big?

[Zetanio]

A BA in Computer Science?

[Greatguardian]

What are the specific differences between the two degree programs? Different schools do different things with their BA/BS programs. Are you just missing a couple math and non-CS science courses with the BA? Or are you actually taking fewer/less technical programming courses?

[Zetanio]

I did a google.

Seems like the BA is a general applied computer science degree in the arts/humanities dept and a BS is usually in the engineering school.

I vote BS.

[Yuri-G]

What are the specific differences between the two degree programs? Different schools do different things with their BA/BS programs. Are you just missing a couple math and non-CS science courses with the BA? Or are you actually taking fewer/less technical programming courses?

They begin the same, but the BS requires a little more higher-division math and, most significantly, a 19-credit track focused on a specific area of computer science whereas the BA does not. so the extra credits are all upper-division CSCI courses.

[Greatguardian]

That would be a pretty huge deal in my field (Physics) for someone not pursuing a terminal degree. I can't speak to employability in CS, but I would personally go for the BS.

[SephYuyX]

Do you have years (5~7+) of IT experience? BA, because degrees don't matter at that point.
Do you have no (0~2) IT experience? BS, because that's your only real experience.

BA is better than nothing, but with how close the BS is, easy choice if you have no/little experience. Get a loan, finish off school sooner, get a good IT job, pay it off in a year.