Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Science

What's the Difference?

The majority of students choose the Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology (Honors Specialization) program when declaring their program of interest at the end of first year. The second most pursued program is the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (Honors Specialization), which admits 75 students each year. 

Professional programs such as Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Medicine do not give priority to students graduating with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree over those who earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. These programs have competitive admission averages, which makes it important for students to choose a program that fits their interests as they are more likely to do well. When choosing between the BSc and the BA it is important for students to consider not only their interests but also their strengths.

Similarities

Students in both the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Kinesiology complete the following courses as part of their program of study:

  • Psychology of Human Movement Science (0.5 credits)
  • Psychomotor Behaviour (0.5 credits)
  • Physiology (0.5 credits)
  • 9.5 Upper-year Kinesiology credits (Years 2-4)
    • Courses include: anatomy, exercise physiology, athletic injuries, sport and exercise pschology, ethics, sport management
  • 0.5 Statistics credits

Differences

Sociocultural Courses (Kinesiology)

  • BA: 2.0 credits
  • BSc: 1.0 credits

Courses include: Sport Psychology, Ethics, Sport & the Law

Electives (Kinesiology)

  • BA: 4.5 credits
    • Students may take BSc courses as elective options
  • BSc: 2.0 credits

External Sciences

  • BA: None required
    • Students may take external sciences courses but they are not mandatory
  • BSc: 5.0 credits
    • 2.0 credits in first year (1000-level)
    • 3.0 credits in years 2-4 (2100-level or higher)