Home
Blog
General
MA vs. MS Degrees in 2025: Differences, Benefits, and Choosing the Right Path

MA vs. MS Degrees in 2025: Differences, Benefits, and Choosing the Right Path

Q: 1. Can I pursue an MA or MS degree part-time while working full-time?

Many universities offer part-time or online MA and MS programs, allowing students to balance work and study.

Q: 2. Do employers value MA and MS degrees equally?

It depends on the field. STEM industries often prioritize MS degrees, while creative or academic fields value MA degrees.

Q: 3. What are the funding options for MA and MS programs?

Scholarships, research assistantships, and employer sponsorships are common for both MA and MS degrees.

Q: 4. Which degree is better for switching career fields?

MS degrees are often better for transitioning into technical fields, while MA degrees help pivot to creative or academic careers.

Q: 5. Can I enroll in an MS program with a non-STEM undergraduate degree?

Some programs offer bridge courses for students without a STEM background to meet prerequisites.

Q: 6. How important is the university ranking when choosing an MA or MS program?

Rankings matter for certain industries, but program reputation and faculty expertise are often more important.

Q: 7. What is the return on investment (ROI) for MA vs. MS degrees?

MS degrees often have higher ROI in terms of salary, but MA degrees offer long-term career satisfaction in fields like education and arts.

Q: 8. Are internships mandatory for both degrees?

MS programs often require internships for practical experience, while MA programs may include optional fieldwork or projects.

Q: 9. Can MA or MS degrees lead to entrepreneurship?

Yes, MA grads may start creative businesses, while MS grads often venture into tech startups or product development.

Q: 10. How do international students benefit from these degrees?

Both degrees can enhance employability globally, but MS degrees may offer better opportunities in STEM-heavy countries.

By Sriram

Updated on Dec 21, 2024 | 9 min read | 1.6k views

Table of Contents

Are you struggling to choose between MA vs. MS degrees for your postgraduate studies? It’s a common dilemma for students trying to align their education with their career goals. So, should you opt for the broad creativity of a Master of Arts (MA) or the technical depth of a Master of Science (MS)?

Understanding the difference between MA and MS is crucial to making the right decision. This blog will demystify the key aspects of master of arts vs master of science, helping you decide which degree fits your academic and professional aspirations.

Get ready for clear, actionable insights to guide your choice. Dive in!

What is an MA Degree (Master of Arts)?

If you’re into humanities, arts, or social sciences, an MA might be perfect for you. It’s all about theoretical learning and creativity, which is great if you enjoy analyzing ideas or expressing yourself. Plus, it opens up so many options—from working in policy-making to exploring a career in creative writing. It’s flexible and fits well with people who love diving into ideas and concepts.

Modern MA programs often integrate technology, such as using AI in media studies or data analytics in sociology, bridging traditional disciplines with cutting-edge tools for broader career opportunities.

Features of an MA Degree

An MA degree is all about building your theoretical knowledge, sharpening your critical thinking, and diving deep into research. It’s a solid choice if you’re into academics, creative work, or research-heavy fields.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

You’ll spend time analyzing concepts and developing ideas.
Be ready for essays, research papers, and presentations—perfect for honing your communication skills.
It’s not about numbers; it’s about ideas and insights.
Great for roles like writing, policy-making, or social research.
While it’s ideal for academic or creative paths, it also opens doors in corporate roles like communications and strategy.

If you love exploring ideas and expressing them creatively, this degree is worth considering!

Fields of Study for an MA Degree

MA programs cater to various interests. Popular fields include:

Literature and Linguistics
History and Sociology
Political Science and International Relations
Fine Arts and Performing Arts
Media and Communication Studies

If you’re drawn to fields like Media and Communication Studies, consider enhancing your expertise with upGrad’s Online Digital Marketing Programs. Whether you’re starting fresh, transitioning careers, or advancing your knowledge, these courses are designed to help you excel in the dynamic world of marketing.

Also Read: Career and Job opportunities After Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication

Popular Roles and Average Salary for MA Graduates

An MA opens doors to various roles in creative, academic, and communication fields. Here’s a snapshot of common job roles and their earning potential:

Role	Average Annual Salary
Content Strategist	INR 6L
Academic Researcher	INR 1.68L
Public Relations Specialist	INR 3.6L
Art Director	INR 8L
Social Media Manager	INR 3.6L

Source: Glassdoor

Also Read: Top Highest Paying Arts Subject Jobs List in India | Full Report

While an MA focuses on theoretical and creative skills, an MS offers a contrasting approach. Let’s explore how an MS degree is structured and its key focus areas.

What is an MS Degree (Master of Science)?

An MS degree is perfect if you’re into technical and scientific fields. It’s all about building analytical skills and focusing on research, which makes it ideal for STEM careers like engineering, tech, or healthcare.

You’ll dive into advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and deep learning and work with programming languages like Python, R, and MATLAB. These programs are designed to help you innovate and specialize in areas like robotics, data science, or biotech.

If you're considering pursuing an MS degree, it's important to understand the key features that make it a great choice for those interested in technical and scientific fields.

Features of an MS Degree

An MS degree is all about gaining technical expertise and practical skills for STEM careers. Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

Perfect if you love diving into complex concepts.
It’s hands-on, letting you apply what you learn.
Prepares you for specialized roles in fields like tech, healthcare, and engineering.

If you’re looking for a degree that combines in-depth learning with high-impact career potential, an MS is a solid choice.

Fields of Study for an MS Degree

MS degrees specialize in STEM fields, providing technical depth and expertise. Here are the most in-demand disciplines for MS students:

Computer Science
Data Science
Engineering
Biotechnology
Environmental Science

Also Read: Importance of Data Science in 2025 [A Simple Guide]

Popular Roles and Average Salary

MS graduates find lucrative opportunities in STEM fields across industries. Check out these high-demand roles and their average salaries:

Role	Average Salary (Annual)
Data Scientist	INR 12L
Software Engineer	INR 8L
Mechanical Engineer	INR 3.6L
Biotechnologist	INR 3.36L
Environmental Analyst	INR 8L

Source: Glassdoor

If you're looking to land top-paying jobs in tech, upskilling is key. Check out upGrad’s free IT and technology courses—they’re a great way to boost your skills and stay ahead in this competitive industry.

Also Read: Is Data Science a Good Career? Explore Growth, Roles, & Salaries in 2025

Now that you know the fundamentals of MA and MS degrees, it’s time to see how they compare across different aspects like focus, curriculum, and career opportunities.

Key Difference Between MA and MS Degrees

Choosing between MA vs. MS degrees comes down to understanding their unique focus, learning methods, and career paths. Below is a detailed comparison to help you decide between master of arts vs master of science:

Aspect	Master of Arts (MA)	Master of Science (MS)
Main Focus	Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences	Technical and Scientific Disciplines
Learning Approach	Theoretical, discussion-based, and qualitative	Research-intensive, practical, and quantitative
Thesis Requirement	Often optional or based on creative projects	Commonly mandatory with a focus on technical research
Classification	Generalist approach	Specialist approach
Entry Requirements	Bachelor’s in humanities or related fields	Bachelor’s in STEM or related technical fields
Subject Areas	Literature, Sociology, Media Studies, Fine Arts	Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Biology
Graduate Outcomes	Analytical, communication, and critical thinking skills	Technical expertise and problem-solving capabilities
Career Opportunities	Creative industries, academics, public relations	STEM fields, technology, healthcare, and engineering
Program Duration	1-2 years	1-2 years
Global Recognition	Valued in academia and creative sectors globally	High demand in global technical industries

Also Read: 10 Best Jobs for the Future via a Masters degree

Understanding the difference between MA and MS is important, but choosing the right degree requires careful consideration of your personal goals and interests. Let’s break it down further.

How to Choose Between an MA vs. MS Degree

Choosing the right degree is all about matching your interests and career goals with what the program offers.

Ask yourself: Are you drawn to creativity and theory, or do you thrive on technical challenges and problem-solving? Understanding what excites you will make the decision clearer.

Let’s explore the key factors that can guide you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Your decision between MA vs. MS degrees should be based on your aspirations, skills, and academic strengths.

Here are the key factors to help guide your decision:

Interests: If you enjoy theoretical learning, arts, or communication, an MA is ideal. For technical or scientific interests, consider an MS.
Career Goals: Want to enter creative industries, academia, or public relations? Opt for an MA. If you aim for STEM roles, research, or healthcare, an MS is better.
Educational Background: Humanities or social sciences graduates are suited for MA programs. STEM or technical graduates align better with MS requirements.
Skills Required: Evaluate whether you prefer analytical and qualitative skills (MA) or technical and problem-solving skills (MS).

If you're ready to take control of your career, upGrad’s Fundamentals of Career Planning course is a great place to start. It’s designed to help you map out your path to success.

Tips for Making the Right Decision

The right degree choice between master of arts vs master of science depends on understanding your long-term goals and learning preferences.

Follow these actionable tips to make an informed decision:

Research your desired career’s qualifications and typical degree requirements.
Speak with alumni or professionals in your field of interest.
Consider the coursework style—do you prefer research-heavy or project-based learning?
Think long-term: Which degree provides better opportunities for your 5-10 year goals?
Compare institutions offering both programs to see which aligns with your aspirations.

Carefully weighing these factors can ensure you choose the degree that’s right for your future.

Also Read: Top 15+ Best Career Options in Future [In-demand highest paying Jobs]

With the key factors in mind, the next step is finding the right resources and guidance. Here’s how upGrad can support you on your academic journey.

IIIT Bangalore

Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI

Placement Assistance

Executive PG Program13 Months

View Program

O.P.Jindal Global University

MBA from O.P.Jindal Global University

Live Case Studies and Projects

Master's Degree12 Months

View Program

How Can upGrad Help You?

upGrad offers a range of online programs tailored for both MA and MS aspirants, providing flexibility and industry-relevant skills to advance your career.

Through specialized programs, you can gain technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and 100+ free courses. Join over 1 million learners to build job-ready skills and tackle industry challenges.

Here are some relevant courses you can check out:

Course Title	Description
Master’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science	This MS DS program blends theory with real-world application through 15+ projects and case studies and 500+ hours of learning.
Master of Design in User Experience	Learn how to build world-class products from design leaders at Apple, Pinterest, Cisco, and PayPal.
Master of Science in Machine Learning & AI	The curriculum is designed to prepare learners for roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, and Artificial Intelligence Engineer.

Here are some relevant courses to complement your master’s degree:

Introduction to Modern Public Relations	Learn modern vs. traditional PR, steps for a successful PR strategy, and the skills needed to be a successful PR professional.
Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication	This industry-aligned curriculum helps you with cutting-edge digital marketing skills, from SEO to marketing analytics.
Post Graduate Programme in ML & AI from IIIT B (Executive)	Join India’s leading Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence program, trusted by over 10,000 learners and running successfully for over 8 years.
Advanced Certificate in Digital Marketing and Communication	This industry-aligned curriculum helps you with cutting-edge digital marketing skills, from SEO to marketing analytics, including real-world applications and live projects.

You can also get personalized career counseling with upGrad to shape your career, or visit your nearest upGrad center and start hands-on training today!

References:
Salary: Environment Analyst in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Biotechnologist in Bangalore 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Mechanical Engineer in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Software Engineer in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Data Scientist in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Social Media Manager in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Art Director in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Public Relations Specialist in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Academic Researcher in India 2024 | Glassdoor
Salary: Content Strategist in India 2024 | Glassdoor