The Economics Department at the UNC Greensboro Bryan School of Business and Economics offers a unique opportunity to its students: choosing between pursuing a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Economics. But how do you decide when it comes to choosing which degree is right for you?
Almost all Bryan School students must complete the Minerva Academic Curriculum (MAC), Bryan School Pre-Admission Courses, and Bryan School Common Business Core in addition to major-specific courses. These courses include a variety of topics ranging from accounting to hospitality and tourism management. You must take these courses as a student pursuing a B.S. in Economics. This degree allows students to develop and apply economic reasoning and analysis to economic issues, ranging from individual businesses to public policy.
With a B.A. in Economics, you must complete the Minerva Academic Curriculum (MAC), your major requirements, and the appropriate amount of electives. But the elective requirements for a B.A. include one more economics elective than the B.S.
Why is this important?
With a B.A. in Economics, you can take electives inside or outside the Bryan School. The B.A. focuses more on the liberal arts, humanities, and social sciences, allowing students to develop and apply economic reasoning in economics, public and social policy, and additional humanitarian and social sciences.
If students want to double major, however, receiving a degree of the same title is typically faster and easier. For example, it’s easier to pursue a B.S. in Economics and a B.S. in Marketing than it would be to combine a B.A. and a B.S.
It’s advisable that students choosing to double major within the Bryan School choose a B.S., whereas if students are looking to major outside of the Bryan School, they pursue a B.A.
If you aren’t looking to double major, consider where your interests lie. Are you looking to be involved in corporate economics? Or are you hoping to help with sociological research? Do you enjoy learning about different aspects of the business world, or would you instead want to learn more about politics and economics?
Learning goals stay the same
The learning goals stay the same whether you choose a B.A. or B.S. After your time studying, you should be able to:
- Identify economic issues
- Analyze economic issues
- Propose policies to address economic issues
- Communicate effectively about economic issues
Regardless of whether you choose a B.A. or a B.S., you can still apply for the Advance Master’s Program in Applied Economics. You are required to take 120 credit hours to graduate, have the option of in-person or online courses, and receive a comprehensive education in economics. The differences, however, lie in the course load.
Whether you choose a B.A. or a BS, the Bryan School will ensure you’re job-ready by graduation. To contact one of our advisors about whether a B.A. or a B.S. is the best fit for you, visit our Undergraduate Student Services Page.
