B.A Arts (Hons.) vs B.A Social Science (Hons.) at BHU: Which Course is Better for Your Future?

While a B.A in Arts emphasizes specialization, a B.A in Social Science provides interdisciplinary knowledge.
UniList Desk

Updated Dec 19, 2025 | 05:43 PM IST

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Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of India’s most respected universities, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Established in 1916, the university is known for its strong academic values, experienced faculty, and wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Every year, a large number of students apply to BHU, particularly for arts courses such as B.A. Arts (Honours) and B.A. Social Science (Honours).
If you plan to study arts after completing Class 12, choosing the right course is an important decision. This article explains the key differences between B.A. Arts (Honours) and B.A. Social Science (Honours) at BHU to help students make an informed choice.

About B.A. Arts (Honours) at BHU

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) programme allows students to specialise in a single subject. Students choose one major discipline and study it in depth over the course of three years. At BHU, the programme is offered by the Faculty of Arts.
Major subjects in B.A. Arts (Honours)
  • Hindi
  • English
  • Sanskrit
  • Philosophy
  • History
  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Psychology
This programme is ideal for students who wish to develop deep subject knowledge and pursue academic specialisation, which is valuable for higher studies and research-oriented careers.

About B.A. Social Science (Honours) at BHU

The B.A. Social Science (Honours) programme offers an interdisciplinary approach by combining multiple social science subjects. Also offered by the Faculty of Arts at BHU, this course is designed for students who want a broader understanding of social structures, governance, and economic systems.
Subjects covered in B.A. Social Science (Honours)
  • History
  • Political Science
  • Sociology
  • Economics
  • Geography
By studying several subjects together, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how societies function, how governments operate, and how economies are structured.

Eligibility criteria for Both Courses

The eligibility requirements for both programmes are similar:
  • Candidates must have completed Class 12 from a recognised board.
  • Students from the arts stream are generally preferred, although some subjects may allow students from other streams.
  • Admission is based on CUET-UG scores.
  • Candidates must meet the BHU cut-off marks for their chosen course.
Applicants are advised to check the official BHU admission brochure for the most up-to-date information.

Benefits of Studying at BHU

BHU is a central government university, which makes its fee structure significantly more affordable than that of many private institutions. Additional benefits include:
  • A large and diverse campus
  • Well-equipped hostel and library facilities
  • Strong academic reputation across India
  • Good preparation for competitive examinations

Career scope after B.A. Arts (Honours)

The B.A. Arts (Honours) programme prepares students for a wide range of academic and professional careers, particularly in fields that require subject expertise.
Career options
  • Higher studies such as M.A. and Ph.D.
  • Teaching after completing a B.Ed.
  • Civil services preparation
  • Research and academia
  • Content writing and journalism
  • Government jobs through UPSC, SSC, and State Public Service Commissions
This course is best suited for students who want to specialise deeply in a particular subject.

Career scope after B.A. Social Science (Honours)

The B.A. Social Science (Honours) degree offers broad exposure to multiple disciplines, making it suitable for careers that require an understanding of society, policy, and governance.
Career options
  • Civil services and other government examinations
  • Policy research and social research
  • Work with NGOs and social organisations
  • Higher studies in public administration or social sciences
  • Teaching and academic careers after further qualifications
This programme is ideal for students who want a holistic understanding of social issues.

Which Course is better for your Future?

Choose B.A. Arts (Honours) if:
  • You have a strong interest in one subject
  • You are looking for academic specialisation
  • You plan to pursue higher studies or research in a specific discipline
Choose B.A. Social Science (Honours) if:
  • You enjoy studying multiple subjects
  • You are preparing for civil services or policy-related careers
  • You want flexible career options across various sectors
Banaras Hindu University is a trusted government institution for arts education in India. Both B.A. Arts (Honours) and B.A. Social Science (Honours) offer strong academic value.
Understanding your interests and career goals before choosing a course will help you build a successful future.
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