Choosing between Master of Arts and a Master of Science can be confusing for many postgraduate students. These are both advanced- level degrees at the same academic level; MSc vs MA major difference lies in focus, structure and subject matter. MA degree revolves around disciplines within the arts, humanities, and social sciences, emphasizing critical thinking, theory, and qualitative analysis. While on the other hand, MSc degree focuses on scientific, technical and quantitative subjects, with a strong emphasis on research, data, and practical applications.
In this article, we will discuss about difference between MA degree and MSc degree difference, which one is the better option. We will also discuss about the different terms and what career options are after completing master’s degree.
Table of Contents
What is the Meaning of MA Course?
MA or Master of Arts is a 2-year postgraduate degree typically pursued in the arts, humanities and social sciences. MA Course is one of the most popular career options; this degree provides access to various career options in academics, research, media and administration.
To be eligible for MA course, an individual must have completed bachelor’s degree in arts from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% as an aggregate score.
Popular MA course specializations include Political Science, History, Sociology, Psychology, and English.
What is the Meaning of MSc Course?
MSc degree stands for Masters of Science, a 2-year postgraduate course where individuals learn about various specializations under science and technology. Some of the key subjects in the MSc degree curriculum are Mechanics, analytical chemistry, mathematics, physics, cell biology, data science, computer science, environmental science, and life science.
To secure admission in MSc degree, a candidate must have a qualified bachelor’s degree in science from a recognized college with a minimum of 55% as an aggregate score in the graduation degree.
MSc course graduates can work in various sectors and industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, research, the food industry, information technology, manufacturing, and agriculture. Some of the popular jobs include research scientists, software engineers, food researcher/analyst, and app developers.
MSc vs MA: Eligibility Criteria
Whenever deciding between Master of Arts and a Master of Science, it is very important to understand that each course has its own academic and eligibility criteria. Here is the eligibility criteria between MA and MSc:
- Firstly, to be eligible for MA course, an individual must have completed a bachelor’s degree in arts or a related field. While on the other hand, an individual must have completed a bachelor’s degree in science or a relevant field from a reputed and recognized university.
- Secondly, to get admission in Master of Science or Master of Arts course, a candidate must secure at least 55% as a minimum aggregate score. There is a 5% relaxation for the reserved category.
- Further, a candidate must qualify for the entrance exam for MA course or MSc course to get admission to a good college.
Difference Between MA and an MSc Degree
| Parameters | MA course | MSc course |
| Course structure | MA course is designed around the disciplines like humanities, arts, social science | MSc degree focuses on scientific and technical subjects areas within science, engineering, mathematics, technology |
| Eligibility criteria | Completed bachelor’s degree in arts from reputed university with 55% | Qualified graduation degree in science from recognized university with a score of 55% |
| Duration | 2 years | 2 years |
| Entrance exams | CUET-PG, IPU-CET, MHT-CET | CUET-PG, IPU-CET, MHT-CET |
| Career paths | Teaching, writing, research, media, public policy, law | Coding, mathematics modelling, data analyst, |
| Specializations | Political Science, Psychology, English, History, Fine arts, sociology, Philosophy | Mathematics, microbiology, botany, physics, chemistry, biology, psychology computer science, engineering |
| Research | Less intensive | More research intensive |
| Teaching methods | Theoretical and qualitative | Technical and quantitative |
| Admission process | Merit-based or entrance exam based | Merit-based or entrance exam based |
MSc vs MA: MA or MSc Which is Better?
The difference between MA and an MSc degree is the subject focus and specialization offered in that subject. However, there is no single choice between both degrees. Degree which is better for the individual depends on the academic background, career paths, and field of specialization.
Further, MA Programs focus more on humanities, arts, fine arts and social science. In contrast, MSc degree focus and emphasized more on scientific analytical and technical disciplines
MA course includes fields such as history, political science, geography, philosophy, and languages. While, on the other hand, MSc degree includes fields such as biology, physics, mathematics, chemistry and computer science.
Common Subjects Between Master of Arts and Masters of Science
| Master of Arts | Masters of Science |
| History | Environmental science |
| Sociology | Engineering |
| Political science | Psychology |
| Fine arts | Mathematics |
| Architecture | Botany |
| Journalism | Biomedical science |
| English literature | Computer science |
| Performing arts | Chemistry |
| Anthropology | Geology |
| Psychology | Physics |
Thus, it is advised to choose masters degree which is based on how well the subject aligns with career goals and interests. An individual should not focus on the title of the degree or qualification.
MSc vs MA: Career Scope and Job Roles
An MSc degree or Masters of Science, offers a broad career in the STEM field. Graduates can work in research, development, academia, IT and Data Analytics, healthcare and technology.
Some of the specific job roles include research scientists, data scientists, software developers, clinical researchers, and lab technicians.
| Job roles | Salary |
| Research assistant | 3,00,000- 6,00,000 per annum |
| Laboratory technician | 3,00,000-5,00,000 per annum |
| Food and drug inspector | 2,00,000- 10,00,000 per annum |
| Chemical analyst | 2,00,000- 10,00,000 per annum |
| professor | 2,00,000- 8,00,000 per annum |
| teacher | 7,00,000- 9,00,000 per annum |
| Medical representative | 4,00,000-7,00,000 per annum |
An MA degree, or Master of Arts, offers a wide range of career paths in both the public and private sectors, which includes options such as education, media, research, government and many more.
Some of the good job positions include website content writer, psychologist’s journalist, management, economist, policy analysis, and social worker. A candidate can also prepare for the government exams such as SSC CGL, Public Sector Undertaking jobs, Banking Jobs, civil services, etc.
| Job roles | Salary |
| Teaching | 9,00,000 per annum |
| historian | 11,00,000 per annum |
| psychologists | 4,00 ,000 per annum |
| journalist | 3,88,000 per annum |
| Economist | 7,00,000 per annum |
| Content writer | 3,00,000 per annum |
| Subject matter expert | 3,85,000 per annum |
| Administrative officer | 4,22,000 per annum |
Conclusion
Choosing MSc vs MA ultimately depends on the academic interests, career aspirations, and the type of skills an individual wants. MA course focuses on critical thinking and qualitative research such as humanities and social science while, on the other hand, MSc degree focuses on analytical thinking, technical skills, and scientific research in STEM courses. None of the degrees are inherently better; each degree has its own goals and paths. So, it is important to assess the strengths, long-term objectives and subject preferences before selecting the right postgraduate course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the specific job roles include research scientists, data scientists, software developers, clinical researchers, and lab technicians. MSC graduates often enter research, engineering and IT-related fields.
Some of the good job positions include website content writer, psychologist's journalist, management, economist, policy analysis, and social worker. A candidate can also prepare for the government exams such as SSC CGL, Public Sector Undertaking jobs, Banking Jobs, civil services, etc.
Yes, many institutes and universities in India allow the students to pursue MA in different field but related one such as sociology, political science, economics, and media studies.
Basically, the value of the degree depends on the career goals and specializations. MSc degree is preferred for technical and research roles in science and technology. While MA degree is suitable for education, media, public policy and humanities- related fields.