Master of Arts and Master of Science are the two most common master’s degrees. An MA centers on the humanities and social sciences, such as history, literature, and sociology. An MSc centers on science and technology, such as biology, chemistry, and engineering. See what master’s degrees are there for the full list.
Teaching styles differ. MA programs stress reading, writing, and discussion, often ending in a dissertation. MSc programs stress labs, data, and technical methods. Both take one to two years full-time in most countries. Business students can compare the MS in business administration with the MA in organizational leadership to see the split in action.
Careers follow the training. MA graduates often work in education, media, policy, and nonprofits. MSc graduates often work in labs, tech firms, and engineering roles. Pick the degree that matches the work you want to do, not the one that sounds more impressive.

