MA vs MSc: What is the best choice?

If you’ve been considering studying for a master’s degree, you would likely have come across a few different options. This can initially seem confusing. You may think that the degrees are pretty much the same. However, there are some key differences between two of the most popular master’s qualifications, namely an MA and an MSc. In this article, we explain what these degrees are, what it takes to study them and what careers they can lead to.  

What is an MA? 

A Master of Arts (MA) is a postgraduate qualification incorporating but not limited to humanities and social sciences subjects. MA degrees are offered as both taught and research degrees, with a focus on a specialist subject. In most cases, an MA is classed as an academic degree. In your dissertation or thesis, you're expected to grow and contribute to the body of knowledge in the subject area. Some of the more common MA subject areas that are studied include:

• History
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Law
• English literature 
• Languages 
• Philosophy 
• Fine art
• Performing art
• Journalism 
• Architecture

For an MA, you will usually need to have studied the subject at a bachelor’s or honour’s degree level. However, sometimes related subjects are considered and taken into account for admission. 

MA degrees are usually assessed through exams, assignments and a mini-thesis. However, for a research-based MA degree, you will need to conduct independent research with the help of a supervisor and submit a dissertation for examination. This is sometimes called an MRes degree or MA by research. An MA is usually a one-year degree full-time and two-year on a part-time basis. 

Explore the top subjects for an MA. 

What is an MSc? 

An MSc or Master of Science degree usually focuses on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related) subjects. In some cases, an MSc covers certain social science subjects too. An MSc degree is often classed as a professional degree, with a significant orientation towards preparing you for a career in industry or discipline, including accreditation.  

For an MSc, you will develop your knowledge and expertise in a specialised area. This is often to improve your professional profile and technical skills to prepare you for more advanced work in a particular field. Some of the more common MSC subjects include: 

• Environmental science
• Engineering
• Computer science
• Biomedical science
• Accounting
• Psychology
• Economics
• Information technology
• Geology
• Business and Finance
• Physics

MSc degrees are mainly taught degrees, which are similar to undergraduate degrees in structure but have a more advanced and demanding curriculum. An MSc will take two years to complete part-time and a year full-time. There may also be elements of practical or laboratory work, work placements or an internship as part of your course.

What are the differences between an MA and MSc degree? 

There are some similarities between an MA and MSc degree. For example, you can take an MA in Accounting or an MSC in the same subject. There are, however, differences that set the two apart:

Read more on the differences between an MA and an MBA. 

What are the entry requirements?

A general guideline of entry requirements for an MA and MSc are:

Always check with a university as to the specific requirement before applying to do an MA or MSc. You may find tips on how to apply helpful or find out how speaking to an education counsellor can help you with your application.

Discover more about how to qualify for a master’s degree. 

What about graduate career opportunities? 

It is essential that you are clear about your priorities before applying for an MA or MSc degree. Some degrees are designed specifically towards developing your skills and CV/resume for employment. Other degrees are more theoretical and academic without much of a direct effect on employment opportunities. But, remember no academic study is ever a waste of your time or money.  

Your graduate prospects also depend on your area of interest, your abilities and the field you are studying in. Remember to try and match what you study with your career path. You may hear people say that an MSc is superior to an MA, but this is not the case. Each degree has its own academic prestige and respect in different fields.

Now that you know the differences between an MA and an MSc you probably want to get started in looking for a course to suit you. Discover more on how to select your major, how master’s degrees are graded, and the top subjects for an MSc. 

Salary & Career Outcomes: MA vs. MSc

One of the most significant factors for prospective students is the potential return on investment, which includes both salary prospects and career opportunities.

Salary Potential

MSc graduates tend to command higher salaries, particularly early in their careers, due to high demand for specialized technical skills in STEM industries. According to Research.com, MSc graduates in data science and IT management earn between $95,000 and $120,000 annually, while engineers with advanced degrees average around $100,000.

MA graduates typically see salaries ranging from $60,000 to $80,000 per year. Education administrators with an MA earn a median of around $74,000, while communications professionals earn between $70,000 and $85,000. However, MA graduates have significant potential for salary growth as they move into leadership roles, often reaching six-figure incomes later in their careers.

Career Paths

MA programs cultivate strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills valued across sectors. Common career paths include education (teachers, lecturers, administrators), media and communications (journalists, editors, PR specialists), government and public sector (policy analysts, diplomats), and arts and culture (curators, archivists).

MSc programs provide specialized technical knowledge for careers in science, technology, and quantitative fields. Common paths include healthcare (clinical researchers, biomedical scientists), technology (software developers, data scientists, IT managers), finance (financial analysts, quantitative analysts), and engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical engineers).

Cost & Duration: What to Expect

Program Costs

Master's degree costs vary widely. In the United States, the average cost from a public university is around $51,740, while private universities average $62,550 for the entire program. MSc programs in lab-based or technology-intensive fields may have higher tuition due to specialized equipment, though this varies by program.

Program Duration

Both MA and MSc programs are similar in duration. Full-time master's degrees typically take one to two years to complete. Part-time programs usually take two to three years, offering flexibility for working students. Both types generally require 30 to 36 credit hours.

How to Choose Between an MA and an MSc

Choosing between an MA and an MSc should be based on your personal interests, career aspirations, and learning style.

Align with Your Career Goals: Consider your long-term career path. If you envision a technical or scientific career requiring specialized expertise, an MSc is likely better. For careers valuing communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills such as education, media, or public service, an MA is more suitable.

Consider Your Academic Interests: Reflect on subjects you enjoyed during undergraduate studies. If drawn to humanities, arts, and social sciences with strengths in writing and theoretical analysis, an MA allows deeper exploration. If passionate about science, mathematics, and problem-solving with preference for hands-on work, an MSc is a natural fit.

Evaluate Program Curriculum: MA programs typically involve more reading, writing, and discussion, with assessments through essays and dissertations. MSc programs include more lab work and quantitative analysis, with assessments through exams and research projects.

Research University Reputation: The reputation of the university and specific program can be critical. A well-regarded MA from a top university may open more doors than a less prestigious MSc. Research faculty, facilities, and alumni networks.

Speak to an Education Counsellor: If unsure, speaking to an education counsellor can provide personalized advice based on your background and goals.