With so many different types of degrees to choose from, deciding on a program is stressful. Deciding to enroll in a bachelor of applied science (BAS) program is a great way to kick off your degree, but first, you need to know what exactly it is and why it will benefit you.
What Is the BAS Degree?
A BAS, or bachelor of applied science degree, is an option for students who wish to focus on hands-on experiences and learning rather than theoretical studies. BAS programs often involve many group projects, research projects, guest speakers, and internships. The goal of a BAS program is to engage students in activities that will prepare them for their future careers.
Similar to a bachelor of art (BA) or bachelor of science (BS), you don’t earn a plain bachelor of applied science degree. Rather, your degree would be something along the lines of a Bachelor of Applied Science in International Business. Where a BA focuses on courses in liberal arts and a BS focuses on science courses, a BAS focuses on courses in career training.
Common BAS Degrees
For anyone focused on advancing their career, a bachelor of applied science may be a great option. There are dozens of options for BAS programs, though some of the most common areas of study are listed below.
Project Management
There are many different types of project management degrees you can earn, but choosing the path of a BAS in Project Management is the best option for those hoping to seriously advance their careers.
By enrolling in one of these programs, you will learn not only the skills needed to work project management jobs but also the professional skills needed to impress employers. On average, those with a BAS in Project Management earn around $60,000 per year working various project management jobs.
Computer Science/Computer Engineering
Computer science and computer engineering degrees are often BS degrees, but earning a BAS in Computer Science or Engineering is a great way to learn the career skills needed to work in the field. While the BS degrees would focus on the application of computer sciences and engineering, the BAS would help students to better work with people. This is often considered the best degree option for those who do not wish to become professional workers and would rather pursue a unique career path.
Business Management
Perhaps the most common BAS degree to pursue, a BAS in Business Management is a great precursor to an MBA in Business Management or an MBA in International Business. Combining the leadership goals of a business management degree with the essential career skills a BAS degree provides creates a perfect degree plan.
During one of these courses, you will learn how to manage the business and people. Graduates of these programs are often successful in starting their own businesses.
Bachelor of Applied Science Programs: What to Expect
Since a bachelor of applied science degree is a bit different than a traditional bachelor’s degree, it only makes sense that you should expect it to be a bit different. Luckily, getting accepted into and completing a BAS program is much simpler than many think.
Prerequisites
The only prerequisite that is consistently required across all BAS programs is that you must have first earned an applied science associate degree. Some programs will accept an associate degree in different, but similar fields and others have an option for a combined associate and bachelor of applied science program. However, it is best to prepare for the norm and plan on earning an applied science associate degree prior to your BAS.
Skills Learned
The entire point of a BAS program is to learn important career skills within your area of study. While these skills may vary depending on the program you are enrolled in, most of the same skills are focused on across all programs. By the end of a BAS program, you can expect to have learned all about proper business ethics, business and technical writing skills and etiquette, employee management, and good leadership skills.
Program Formats
As is the case with many degrees nowadays, there are options for both on-campus and online bachelor of applied science programs. There are even hybrid options that combine online and on-campus courses to give students a taste of both worlds. Not every school offers multiple formats for their programs, so it is important that you research which program you want to enroll in and ensure that the schools you apply to offer it.
Salary
After earning a BAS degree, you can earn a decent salary. Of course, it truly depends on what job position you are hired for. But, many BAS degree holders earn well over $100,000 per year, and it is unlikely you will earn less than $60,000 per year. Many positions will pay higher salaries depending on your experience level, so it may take a few years of hard work to earn that six-figure salary, but if it is for a career you enjoy, the wait is well worth it.
Should You Pursue a BAS Degree?
One of the best things about a bachelor of applied science degree is that it will benefit you no matter what your career goals are. If you intend to work in nonprofit management, earning a BAS in Nonprofit Management rather than simply a bachelor’s degree in the same field will aid you in advancing your career faster and easier. The same goes for nearly every other career field.
So, should you pursue a BAS degree? Assuming your goal is to advance your career quickly and take a more unique path, such as starting your own business, earning a BAS degree may be the best option for you.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
