Students seeking postgraduate admissions often come across different acronyms for different qualifications. Two of the common ones are MA or Master of Arts and MSc or Master of Science. In this article, we explain and compare both, identifying their similarities and differences, to help prospective students take informed decisions.
What is an MA?
A Master of Arts degree is typically awarded to students who have completed a master’s degree programme in the arts, humanities or social sciences, such as Literature, History, Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Journalism, Communication, or Political Science. In more recent times, the MA is being awarded in a wider variety of disciplines. For example, you can also earn an MA in Human Resource Management or Marketing Management.
The focus of an MA degree is on developing critical thinking, research and analytical skills. The coursework often includes a blend of theoretical and practical study, with a heavy emphasis on reading, writing and discussion. The programme also often requires the completion of a research project or thesis, which involves conducting original research and writing an extended paper on a particular topic related to literature.
What is an MSc?
An MSc or Master of Science degree is typically awarded to students who have completed a programme in the sciences, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), such as Biology, Computer Science, Chemistry, Physics and Engineering. Like the MA, MSc is also widely awarded in the social sciences, such as Economics, Business Administration, Political Science, Psychology and Accounting and Finance, one of the sought-after qualifications in 2023. The focus of an MS degree is on developing technical and practical skills in a particular field. The coursework often includes a combination of theoretical study, fieldwork and research.
Similarity and Differences Between MA and MSc
MA and MSc are similar in many ways. For example, and perhaps most importantly, both are equivalent qualifications. Similarly, holding a bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) is a prerequisite for gaining admission to either MA or MSc programmes.
Further, both the holders of Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science can enrol for MA or MSc programmes. Finally, regardless of which qualification you hold, you can take up a career in research, academia, public service or work in a professional business environment. Either qualification could be completed within a year or two, depending on the country and institution.
While there is some overlap between the two qualifications, there are some key differences that set them apart. The primary difference between an MA and an MS degree is the focus of the coursework. An MA degree typically emphasises critical, research, theoretical and analytical skills, while an MS degree emphasises technical and practical skills.
Additionally, the coursework for an MA degree is often centred on reading, writing, and discussion, while an MS degree focuses more on research, technical skills or, in the case of STEM disciplines, laboratory work. Finally, an MA can only be awarded in arts, humanities and social science fields, not in STEM disciplines.
In conclusion, your chosen field of study determines whether you are awarded an MA or an MSc. Whichever you go for, be assured that both MA and MSc are equivalent degrees that can prepare you for a job in public, private or non-profit organisations, including research and teaching careers.
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