Difference Between MS and MSc? Which to Choose?

Difference Between MS and MSc: One of the key difference between MS and MSc is that MS (Master of Surgery) is a medical degree whereas MSc (Master of Science) is a science degree. An MS degree is focused on research, while an MSc degree is more theoretical. In India, most IITs offer a 3-year MS program and a 2-year MSc program.

For an MS degree, the emphasis is on technology, and admission is based on the GATE exam. Students often receive a stipend of around 18,000 rupees per month, but they may need to do additional lab work.

Students who have pursued BSc can take up MSc program. While, aspirants who have completed MBBS or any course in the medical field can pursue MS degree.  

MS deals with diseases, various surgical approaches for disease prevention and treatment, and human body components. On the other hand, MSc covers every basic topic in physics, biology, chemistry, mathematics, botany, biotechnology, microbiology, and other related fields. 

Table of Contents

• MS vs MSc: Overview
• MS or MSc: Key Differences
• MS vs MSc: Eligibility Criteria
• MS vs MSc: Admission Process
• MS vs MSc: Job Roles
• Top Colleges for MS and MSc Courses
• Which one to choose MS or MSc?

MS vs MSc: Overview

Let us check out the main difference between MS and MSc. 

What is MS?

The Master of Surgery program is a three-year postgraduate study that covers diseases, human body components, and various surgical approaches for disease prevention and treatment. After purusing MS course, students can become a general surgeon, plastic surgeon, neonatal surgeon, vascular surgeon, researcher, and many more.

What is MSc?

The Master of Science, or MSc, is a two-year postgraduate program that focuses on multiple specializations and covers advanced studies in engineering, science, and medicine. The foundational topics in Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Biotechnology, Microbiology, and other fields are covered in the well-organized MSc curriculum. 

Also Read: MD Vs MS - Which is Better?

MS or MSc: Key Differences

Students who want to pursue MS (Master of Surgery) or MSc (Master of Science) can refer to the table below to know the difference between MS and MSc. 

Also Read: MSc vs MTech: Eligibility, Admission, Top Colleges, Career Scope

MS vs MSc: Eligibility Criteria

It is important for students to know the eligibility criteria before applying for any of the course. After knowing the eligibility conditions, students can also know the primary difference between MS and MSc. The general eligibility criteria for MS and MSc is elucidated below.

MS Eligibility

Below mentioned is the eligibility criteria for MS program.

• Students need to score at least 50% marks in MBBS from a recognized university and a valid score in the entrance exam. There is no age limit for MS degree program.

MSc Eligibility

• Students must have passed a bachelor's degree in science or technology filed with atleast 55% marks and a good score in the entrance exam. Students of any age can pursue MSc course. 

Also Read: MBA vs M.Sc: Which Is Better?

MS vs MSc: Admission Process

One of the difference between MS and MSc is their admission process. Students need to meet the eligibility criteria set by the authority and appear for the required entrance exam. The MS vs MSc admission process is mentioned below.

MS Admission Process

Following are the MS admission process for students who want to pursue MS course.

• Students must fill the application form online or offline and attach the necessary documents.
• Then, candidates need to meet the eligibility criteria and a good score in the entrance exam followed by GD (group discussion) and PI (personal interview) if applicable.
• Students then need to pay the fees to get admission in the respective institution. 

MSc Admission Process

Students seeking admission to MSc can check the pointers given below to know the admission process. 

• The application form can be available either online or offline.
• Students need to obtain a minimum of 55% in BSc or BTech program and valid marks in the entrance exam. 
• After clearing the entrance exam, students need to appear for GD (group discussion) and PI (personal interview). 
• To complete the admission process, students need to submit the required documents and fees. 

Also Read: MBA after MSc - Is it the Right Choice?

MS vs MSc: Job Roles

When it comes to the difference between MS and MSc, the job roles also differ for both courses. Students pursuing MS or MSc degree can get into different job roles listed below.

Also Read: MSc Entrance Exam 2024: Dates, Syllabus, Exam Pattern

Top Colleges for MS and MSc Courses

Since now students know the difference between MS and MSc, it is also important to know the list of best colleges for MS and MSc Courses.

Top Colleges for MS 

Candidates can refer to the table below for the top colleges for MS and their average fees:

Top Colleges for MSc

Tabulated below is the list of top colleges for MSc course along with their average fees.

Also Read: Top M.S Colleges in India 2024

Which one to choose MS or MSc?

After knowing the difference between MS and MSc, a lot of things need to be taken into account and which one to choose—MS or MSc. A candidate should weigh each of the following aspects before deciding between a career in MS or MSc:

• The inclination must first be understood by the candidate. This means that first, he or she must comprehend the field of interest. There’s a huge difference between MS and MSc. 
• MSc is the best course for the ones who have interest in the science field and have pursued BSc or BTech in their graduation. On the other hand, students who want to pursue higher studies in the medical field can take up MS course.
• A career is mostly formed by the subjects and streams that are chosen by the students. After the successful completion of BSc or BTech, students can pursue MSc. However, students must have completed MBBS to be eligible for MS.