Advice with a minor in computer science.

College Majors Math/Computer Science Majors
1

<p>Hello everyone, </p>

<p>I'm currently an undergrad senior who's double majoring in mathematics and economics. I just finished my economics degree, and I need 4 more math classes to complete my math degree (number theory,algebra, senior seminar, and probability theory). Sadly, I am forced to stay one extra quarter to take the number theory since my university only offers it once a year (which I missed). Thus, I won't be able to apply for graduate school for economics until next year, which gives me plenty of time to prepare for the GRE. But I still have 4 more quarter before I apply to a graduate program. So, I'm debating whether I should pick up a minor in computer science or take as many math classes as possible. I want to make sure I have a back up plan, in case grad school doesn't work out. So, should I pick up a minor in computer science to improve my chances of getting a job right after college? (I'm applying to many internships for this summer).</p>

<p>Also, for those who are curious, my current schedule as a double major econ and math is</p>

<p>Winter 2014: Algebra, Computational Math Methods for Engineers (its a class that shows you how to use Matlab) and Math Senior Seminar</p>

<p>Spring 2014: Probability Theory, Real Analysis II, and Economic Senior Seminar</p>

<p>Fall 2014: Number Theory, and 2 Ge</p>

<p>but if I minor in Computer science, my schedule will change to</p>

<p>Winter 2014: Algebra, Computational Math Methods for Engineers (its a class that shows you how to use Matlab) and Introduction to Computer Science Accelerated</p>

<p>Spring 2014: Discreet Math, Introduction to Data Structure, Probability Theory and a GE</p>

<p>Fall 2014: Number Theory, Algorithms and Abstract Data Types, and Economic Senior Seminar</p>

<p>Winter 2015: GE, Comparative Programming Languages, Math Senior Seminar, and Computational Models (Turing machines, the Church-Turing thesis, etc.)</p>

<p>Spring 2015: Introduction to Analysis of Algorithm, Advance Programming, and Computer Systems and Assembly Language. </p>

<p>(Also, minoring in computer science can potentially sabotage my gpa).</p>

<p>Thanks guys! I really appreciate the help!</p>

2

<p>If you are concerned about your GPA for grad school, you should think twice about taking classes that might sabotage your GPA as you mentioned.</p>

3

<p>I’d add that if you want to have a proper safety net, you’d be better off making sure you have a portfolio of usable, employable skills i.e. the major programming languages, maybe some basic business classes if you have the languages. Skip the CS minor. Save on the tuition. Get a job.</p>

<p>You don’t say what you want to study in grad school. This could also affect the advice you’re given.</p>

4

<p>What exactly do you mean by “if grad school doesn’t work out”? Are you concerned that you might not get admitted? Otherwise, I’d say that Math + Econ is a great combination to be employed in real world economics jobs. CS ability would be a huge plus. Programming ability rather than the credential itself would be of greatest value to you in economics. Of course, if you see yourself potentially becoming a programmer then the minor wouldn’t hurt. </p>

<p>Is Matlab a required course? Otherwise I don’t see any application for your likely career path. The math/computational methods gurus on the board would know best.</p>