M.A. or M.S.? What is the difference?

Question

I have a B.S. in psychobiology and I am interested in applying to a Ph.D. program in neuropsychology or biopsychology, but I would like to get a masters in biology, psychology or biopsychology first.

Which is better to get in this situation, the M.A. or the M.S.? I would prefer the easier route, but not if the easier route will make it harder to be accepted into a Ph.D. program.

Answer 1

The basic difference has to do with subject matter. An M.A. is a master of arts degree, while the M.S. is a master of science. Therefore, I would expect that any degree in biology or biopsychology would be a M.S. Psychology could go either way, but I would expect that one offering an M.S. would be more in line with what you are looking for, while an M.A. would be more qualitative and therapeutically-focused.