Navigating the world of higher education can be both exciting and challenging. There are so many options out there!

Even if you’ve decided on a subject you want to study and have a few universities on the shortlist… then there’s degree designations to think about! From BAs to BScs, MAs and Hons degrees, how can you tell what’s best for you? And for that matter, what do they all mean?

In this comprehensive guide, we’re shining a spotlight on BSc Hons degrees. Read on to understand what these letters mean, how they differ from BAs and how these distinguished qualifications can shape your academic and professional journey.

So whether you’re already signed up to a BSc degree and wondering what it involves or still pondering your university options, join us as we delve into the details.

What is a BSc Hons?

A BSc Hons, or more formally, a Bachelor of Science with Honours, is an undergraduate academic degree. It’s awarded to students who’ve completed degrees in scientific or technical subjects with a high level of academic achievement. It’s a very well respected degree and a fantastic foundation for work or further study.

The “Hons” bit of “BSc Hons” signifies the degree was completed with honours. This involves a more rigorous and in-depth course of study compared to a “standard” BSc degree.

To earn a BSc Hons, students typically need to complete additional academic requirements, such as a research project, dissertation or a higher number of credits compared to a regular BSc program. 

The specific requirements will vary depending on the university, so it’s always a good idea to check course pages carefully!

What is the meaning of BSc Hons?

So, we know what it literally means – a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honours. But what does a BSc Hons degree mean in practice?

Well, here are a few ways successfully completing this degree can help your future career.

• Demonstrating specialised knowledge: A BSc Hons indicates a deep and specialised understanding of your field of study. This enhanced knowledge makes you a valuable asset to employers seeking individuals with a strong foundation in specific scientific or mathematical areas (say, Econometrics Analysts for example).
• Gives you a competitive edge: The “Hons” designation sets you apart from those with a standard BSc degree. Employers view candidates with honours degrees as having demonstrated a higher level of commitment, dedication and academic capability.
• Demonstrates research and analytical skills: Many BSc Hons programs involve research projects, dissertations or extended studies. This cultivates strong research and analytical skills, which are highly valued in various industries. These degrees also nurture critical thinking and problem-solving skills, transferable to a wide range of professional settings.
• Career and postgrad advancement: A BSc Hons opens doors to advanced or specialised roles within your field. It may qualify you for positions requiring a deeper understanding of scientific principles or technical practicalities. If you’re thinking about postgraduate studies too, a BSc Hons provides a solid foundation for master’s or doctoral programs.
• Networking opportunities: Completing an honours degree means you’ll work closely with faculty, industry professionals, postgrad researchers and fellow students. This network can be beneficial for career opportunities, mentorship and staying informed about developments in your field.

Remember, the impact of a BSc Hons on your career will also depend on your specific industry and the university you attend. For instance, while it will make a big difference to a lab researcher (for example), it might not be so useful for a humanities-based career like theatre production or law. Here, you’d be much better off opting for a Bachelor of Arts degree – known as a BA Hons.

When thinking about a degree, you should also consider the reputation of your chosen university. Explore our guides to the best Russell Group and non-Russell Group universities for more in-depth information.

What is the difference between BSc, BS and BSc Honours?

The main differences between BSc (Bachelor of Science), BS (Bachelor of Science) and BSc Honours (Bachelor of Science with Honours) lie in the level of academic achievement, additional requirements and the depth of study. 

Here’s a breakdown:

BSc (Bachelor of Science)

• A standard undergraduate degree in science, usually completed over three or four years.
• It covers a broad range of topics within the chosen scientific discipline.
• Typically involves a combination of core courses, elective courses and sometimes a research or practical component.
• Completion of the required credits leads to the awarding of a Bachelor of Science degree.

BS (Bachelor of Science)

• “BS” is just another abbreviation for a Bachelor of Science degree.
• In many cases, “BSc” and “BS” are used interchangeably, with the choice of abbreviation often depending on regional or institutional conventions.
• The curriculum and requirements for a BSc and BS are the same. Specific nuances can vary based on the academic system and the policies of individual universities, so check curriculum requirements carefully.

BSc Honours (Bachelor of Science with Honours)

• An undergraduate degree denoting a higher level of academic achievement and specialisation compared to a standard BSc.
• Typically requires completion of a more extensive and challenging curriculum, often involving additional credits.
• Commonly includes a research project, dissertation or thesis component.
• The “Honours” designation signifies a level of excellence and is often associated with a higher level of commitment, critical thinking and academic achievement.

Which is better, BA Honours or BSc Honours?

Let’s cut straight to the chase. BA Hons and BSc Hons are pretty much equivalent. It really isn’t the case that one is better than the other. It all comes down to your academic and career goals.

The key distinction lies in the subject matter. While BSc Hons degrees are typically awarded for scientific and technical subjects, BA Hons degrees are reserved for arts, humanities and social science subjects (think English Literature, History, Philosophy or Politics). If you’re unsure what type of degree a university offers, just head straight to their individual course pages.

In terms of what’s better, consider the knowledge and skills you’re hoping to gain. BA Hons degrees place emphasis on critical thinking, written communication (usually with plenty of essays) and a broad understanding of societal and cultural issues. They are particularly well suited to careers in fields like journalism, public relations, education, social work or cultural institutions.

On the other hand, BSc Hons degrees are given for subjects like Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Computer Science. The focus is on scientific inquiry, quantitative analysis, experimental design and problem-solving skills. While these qualifications can lead to all sorts of careers, graduates are well-placed for roles in research, engineering, technology, healthcare, environmental science, or industries requiring strong scientific foundation.

There really is no inherent “better” option. It depends on your interests, strengths and career aspirations. Ultimately, the value of any degree lies in how well it aligns with your goals – something only you can judge.

What level is a BSc Honours degree?

A BSc Honours degree is typically considered a Level 6 qualification in the UK’s higher education framework. 

The UK education system follows the framework set out by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), which includes several stages ranging from Level 4 to Level 8.

Here’s an overview:

• Level 4: Certificate of Higher Education or equivalent (first-year undergraduate level).
• Level 5: Diploma of Higher Education or equivalent (second-year undergraduate level).
• Level 6: Bachelor’s degree with Honours (usually attained after completing the third year of undergraduate study).
• Level 7: Master’s degree (postgraduate level).
• Level 8: Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) or equivalent (postgraduate level).

A BSc Honours degree is awarded to students who’ve successfully completed their undergraduate course. You’ll also get a secondary classification (for instance a 1st, 2:1, 2:2 or 3rd), based on how well you’ve done in ongoing assessments, research projects and final exams.

When can you put BSc Honours after your name?

If you’ve successfully completed your Bachelor of Science with Honours degree, then you can put BSc Hons after your name. It’s as simple as that!

For example, if someone named John Doe completed a BSc Honours degree in Chemistry, they may choose to use the designation “John Doe, BSc Hons (Chem). The exact format depends on the conventions of your academic institution, employer guidelines and regional practices. 

Some companies prefer staff don’t display degrees in their email signatures. Other organisations (especially those related to academia and publishing) actively encourage it however! So unless you’re told otherwise, it really is up to you.

The only time you definitely can’t put BSc Hons after your name is if you don’t have a BSc Hons degree. But we’re guessing you knew that already…

Are you applying for a BSc Hons degree?

If you’re considering a BSc Hons degree and need help with your university applications, get in touch with your team of specialist academic coaches. 

We offer tailored 1-1 guidance on personal statements and UCAS applications as well as exam preparation strategies and academic life coaching. Ready to see where your academic journey will take you?