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From BA to BS

Moving from a Bachelor of Arts to Bachelor of Science degree at W. P. Carey

Declaring a program of study on your ASU application doesn't mean you have to have it all figured out on day one. The W. P. Carey School of Business makes it easy to explore your academic interests and change majors. Once admitted, we have a smooth process for switching into the degree program you want or double majoring. Work with your W. P. Carey advisor to achieve your goals and stay on track for graduation.

What's the difference between a BA and BS degree?

The W. P. Carey School of Business delivers Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) business degrees with various concentrations. W. P. Carey offers direct admission to students who meet both general university and W. P. Carey admission requirements, so you can take business classes early on and maximize the value of your time in school.

Admission requirements for BA and BS degrees will vary. The W. P. Carey School’s calculus-based BS degree programs have higher direct admissions standards than BA degree programs. The BA in business degrees with concentrations also require calculus. W. P. Carey offers two non-calculus based BA degree programs with different direct admission requirements: the BA in applied business and technology solutions and the BA in entrepreneurial leadership.

BA and BS business degrees have different focuses. Students may pursue a BS to nurture their quantitative and technical skills or a BA to nurture their human and interdisciplinary skills. Concurrent degrees allow you to cultivate all these skills. According to the World Economic Forum's 2025 Future of Jobs report, employers today are looking for both technological literacy and empathy. Whether you choose a BA or BS program, you'll receive fundamental business knowledge and hands-on learning opportunities to develop your soft skills and analytical thinking.

Is it common to change majors?

If you decide to switch majors along the way after taking a few courses and talking to peers, you're in good company. In fact, over 70% of ASU undergraduate students change their majors at least once.

"I originally came in as a business communication major, and like a lot of first-year students, I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to do. I was still exploring opportunities, and partially why I like W. P. Carey is because there's so many different major options. I knew there was a possibility that I would double major or switch my major if my interests changed," says Dachi Tabatadze (BS Business Data Analytics/Supply Chain Management '25). "I was able to talk to a bunch of different students who were in different programs and organizations. It gave me a better understanding of what I wanted to do."

A study by the EAB debunks common myths about changing majors — it doesn't hurt your likelihood of graduating or increase your time and cost to degree. Students who sought support and changed majors have a higher graduation rate than those who declared their major in the first semester of their first year. They feel more confident and motivated in their studies and career direction.

Changing majors from BA to BS

Changing your major is a straightforward process as long as you meet qualifications. Many students start in a BA business major and later switch to a BS business major once they have established an academic record.

Business students who wish to change from BA to BS must review our direct admission standards and minimum cumulative GPA requirements. You could also retake the ACT. Non-business students who want to change to business must meet our direct admissions standards. Those who meet standards may submit a change of major request via Advising SOS.

If you do not meet direct admissions standards, you must submit an Admissions Portfolio. The process is competitive, and admission is not guaranteed. Meet with your academic advisor to determine the best time to submit your Admissions Portfolio.

Pursuing a double major

Double majoring allows you to combine BA and BS degree programs and explore more than one field of study. Concurrent degrees can also provide financial protection. Research by the National Bureau of Economic Research has found that college graduates with double majors are less likely to be impacted by pay cuts or job losses during economic downturns.

Our advisors are available to help you navigate popular degree combinations and identify the best business double majors for your needs.

"When I first found out it was an option to earn concurrent degrees, I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted as my second major. My academic advisor was very helpful," says Tabatadze. "They recommended I take a couple of general introduction courses that I would have to take anyway, so I could get a taste of the different fields."

Business students interested in a dual major within the W. P. Carey School or a separate college must meet eligibility requirements and submit a concurrent degree request. Non-business students who want to earn a concurrent degree in business must meet direct admission requirements or complete the Admissions Portfolio before filing a request.

Choose from 30+ business degrees

The major you start with isn't the one you have to graduate with. Your advisor can help you choose a business major or double major that makes sense for your interests and goals as you explore our 30+ business degree programs.

"Coming in my first year, I had all of these different interests, like finance, sustainable investing, real estate, and international business. I was wondering how to combine them," says Eugenia Trakal (BS Finance '25). "So I sat with my advisor, and she helped me plan out my whole schedule, which was super helpful."

As a future student, you can chat with W. P. Carey Business Ambassadors, current students who can answer your questions about the application process and picking a business major.