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MA vs MSc: What is the best choice?

What is an MA degree? What does MSc stand for? Find out about the differences between these degrees, the entry requirements and much more.

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Two popular postgraduate master’s degree qualifications are an MA and an MSc, but what do these letters mean and how are they different? What are the entry requirements for each one and how will they benefit your career in the future? Read on to find out the answers to these questions.

 

What is an MA?

 

A Master of Arts (MA) is a postgraduate qualification with a focus on subjects in the humanities and social sciences discipline. Often the focus of the degree is very specific and deals with a niche (very small, specialised) area of a subject. Some of the more common MA subject areas that are studied include:

 

 

For an MA, you will have probably studied one of the subjects at undergraduate or honour’s degree level and find that you want to continue focusing on your area of interest.

 

MAs are usually assessed through a combination of 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.

 

What is an MSc?

 

An MSc or Master of Science degree has a clear focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related) subjects. In some cases, an MSc covers certain social science subjects too.

 

For an MSc, you will be extending and developing 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:

 

 

MSc degrees are mainly taught master’s degrees, which are very similar to undergraduate degrees, and will take you two years to complete part-time and a year full-time. There may also be elements of practical or laboratory work and work placements as part of your course. 

 

What are the main differences between an MA and MSc degree?

 

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

 

MA MSc
Humanities and social science focused STEM focused
More subject focused approach More technical and scientific approach
Highest level of study Not necessarily the highest level of study
Fewer class hours and more research More class hours and lab-based work
academic degree professional degrees

 

What are the entry requirements?

 

A general guideline of entry requirements are:

 

  MA MSc
Degree

An undergraduate degree in a related subject.

2:1 equivalent or B grade average or higher.

An honour’s degree in a related subject.

2:1 or B average or higher

In some cases, a postgraduate diploma in a related subject.
English langauge

IELTS score or equivalent of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0.

An IELTS or equivalent score of 6.5 and no band lower than 6.0.

For the USA

GPA of 3.0 to 3.33

GPA higher than 3.0
Evidence

Previous undergraduate work such as a dissertation or project.

May require a portfolio of work.

For some MSc degrees work experience in the related field is needed.

 

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.

 

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. 

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