<p>I am an Applied Math major BA. I'm considering to switch to BS. But I would also like to minor in Computational Biology since I'm interested in working on Bioinformatics in the future. If I choose to get a bachelor of science in A.Math, I would barely have enough room for this minor. However, if I'm doing BA, there would be much more space for me to get a minor in C. Biology AND taking some other fun elective classes.</p>
<p>Which one would be a better choice?
1.) BA + Minor + Fun elective classes (possibly a Music minor)
2.) BS + Minor (the courseload is also much tougher)</p>
<p>PS: I plan on going to graduate school after I graduate, but I am also ready to find a job in case if I don't get in any graduate schools.</p>
<p>The line between a B.S. and a B.A. is becoming less and less defined every day. Personally, I would do the B.S. + minor just because it would be more impressive from a grad school point of view. However, the B.A. could be okay if the other classes required by the B.S. do not pertinto your future plans. Can you post a link to the course listings for your college’s B.A. and B.S. programs for your major? I would really like to see them so I could really tell you which is better.</p>
<p>BS: Cal I, II, III
Linear Algebra (Or Math based Engineering/Physics, which is what I want to take)
7 Math Upper Division Courses
One Computer Programming course
5 courses with “significant” math-content. (I think any class that has a math pre-req could satisfy)</p>
<p>BA: Same
6 Math upper division courses
One computer programming course
3 courses with “significant” math content</p>
<p>To me, the programs don’t seem that different, so I would say you are fine with the whole B.A. thing. Plus, you’ll be able to do something that is a bit more relaxing on the side, which is always a plus :)</p>
<p>The label doesn’t matter that much, in the end you get a degree in applied math, and most employers will look for your problem solving skills rather than whether your B… ends with an A or with an S. Sure, some will prefer to have more “hardcore” stuff but it’s not necessary. If you prefer the BA route to have more options, as long as you don’t stick to the easy, low-level courses, you’ll be fine. As I’ve advised many other potential math majors, try to take a wide variety of courses early on, so that later you can focus (and take advanced courses) on the areas you really like.</p>
<p>If you apply to graduate school in computational biology, it will help to have the biology courses you’d get in the comp bio minor, in addition to your math coursework. I’d recommend checking the graduate admissions requirements for graduate programs that might interest you, or inquiring of profs regarding whether coursework in an area of application vs. just math courses will make a big difference. It’s somewhat of a trade-off—somewhat stronger math background vs. coursework in an area of application.</p>