BA in CS vs. BALS w/ CS Concentration

[Merlin]

I'm looking at one of these two programs for a friend. I was wondering if there's any substantial difference between them in terms of jobs? They're not interested in doing grad school or anything, and have lots of CS skills in general, so the degree is mainly to solidify their resume. Is the additional effort for the BA in CS worth it?

A BALS with a CS concentration will NOT be considered in the same category as a BACS if you're looking for jobs in software development. The degree itself is in liberal studies and the concentration only appears on a transcript. The only exception might be the HES ALB degree with the CS concentration, but that is kind of a unique situation.

For programming jobs, most employers will be looking for a CS degree specifically (whether it is BACS or BSCS doesn't matter too much) or at least a degree in software development.

Then again, depending on the employer a degree isn't always necessary if you can demonstrate programming skills in other ways like having mobile apps in an app store or verifiable open source contributions. Though even with provable skill, it can be hard to get an interview without a CS or SD degree opening the door.


If your friend is considering the TESU BACS, you should have them look at WGU's BSCS or BSSD degrees as well. I wouldn't suggest the BALS unless they're just looking for a checkbox degree to get a job in general.