Differences Between a B.A. & B.S. in Video Production

From lighting to scene design, writing to animation, students in video production study a range of components that go into quality film, television or other video products. Although the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in video production are slightly different in focus, earning either one can lead to positions in the field, such as video editor or production assistant.

One Difference to Rule Them All

Students majoring in video production and closely related subjects have the option to earn either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science, with many universities offering both. When comparing a university’s video production or film B.A. and B.S. degree programs, students might notice that although the degree awarded is different, the requirements for the major are the same. This is because, generally speaking, the difference between B.A. and B.S. degrees pertains to the type of courses taken to satisfy general education requirements. The B.A. usually places greater emphasis on the humanities, while the B.S. is a more science- and math-heavy program.

Differences in the Details

Students can use general education differences between a B.A. and B.S. to their advantage. A student who, for example, wants to study the artistic side of video production can choose to earn a B.A.; the general requirements in foreign languages, social sciences and arts and literature will act as a foundation for study in topics including screenwriting, video art or documentary filmmaking. Technical-minded students, on the other hand, might choose B.S. programs, with their general courses in science, math and statistics. These act as preparation for later courses such as digital postproduction, sound design and lighting and computer image making.

Choices, Choices Everywhere

Students making the choice between a B.A. and B.S. in video production might also look at closely related majors. By considering all the options, students will most likely find the courses, then major, then degree that best suits their future needs. Majors related to video production include film and television production, video studies, cinematic arts, mass communication and media studies, and these are offered as either B.A. or B.S. degrees. These majors also generally allow students to choose a track or concentration in video production. Students who find the amount of options overwhelming might speak to college advisers, who can explain what their respective schools offer in courses, majors and degrees related to video production.

Careers Need Consideration, Too

One way to make choosing between a B.A. and B.S. in video production less stressful is to take into account goals for the future. Those interested in research, teaching (at any level) or pursuing an M.A. in film or video might be advised to earn a B.A. degree. If a student plans to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, especially if he or she plans to work in a technical area such as digital editing, he or she might consider a B.S. Note, though, that most careers related to film and video production are open to those who hold either degree -- employers in the field are mainly concerned with whether a candidate studied the area or a closely related subject, not whether the degree is a B.A. or B.S.