Master Of Arts Versus Science

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master of arts versus science
Explore the key differences and career impacts of a Master of Arts versus Science. Make the right choice for your future education goals!

The Master of Arts and the Master of Science are the two main master’s degree types. An MA focuses on the humanities, arts, and social sciences. An MS focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math. Both usually take one to two years. The master’s degree types page lists more options.

An MA builds skill in analysis, writing, and argument. Typical subjects include literature, history, and sociology. Graduates work in teaching, media, policy, and nonprofits. The degree suits people who think in words and ideas.

An MS builds technical skill. Typical subjects include computer science, engineering, and the natural sciences. Labs, data work, and quantitative methods are central. Graduates work in research, tech, and industry. Tech readers can start with the CS master’s guide or the MS in business administration.

Choose by interest and career goal. If you like research questions about people and culture, lean MA. If you like experiments and systems, lean MS. Either degree can lead to a doctorate later.

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