cal applied math (econ emphasis) vs ucla math/econ

College Search & Selection
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<p>Hello. I am a transfer student and will be attending either Cal or UCLA this next fall. My question would be to people who have either graduated from these programs or are currently enrolled in them. I have researched both majors and am still undecided on which one would be my best fit. The Cal major seems to be a more traditional math major with a total of 5 "abstract/proof" related classes, and then whatever classes I wish to make up my area of emphasis cluster. On the other hand, UCLA math/econ major seems to have a little less focus on the proof related classes and a little bit more freedom in both your math electives and economics classes (if I'm correct the UCLA major requires Intro to Analysis, Abstract Algebra, and Numerical Analysis for the "core" proof related classes).</p>

<p>I have taken discreet math so I'm semi-familiar with proofs, although I know that Analysis is THE hardest course in undergraduate and has been known to kick the ass of even the brightest students. I'm not sure as to what I'd like to do after I graduate. I feel that Cal's major would prepare me slightly better for graduate school in mathematics since it has more proof related core math classes, but at the same time I feel that UCLA's major would prepare me slightly better for the private sector/work, and/or master's in various math/finance specialties.</p>

<p>To anyone who is currently in the program and/or has graduated please let me know what you think of your respective education. Obviously both of these schools are amazing; Cal has one of the world's top math programs (graduate school though), and I've been told by my professor who completed a PhD at UCLA that their applied math program is extremely strong. If you have graduated let me know what you are currently doing. Work (what kind), graduate school, etc. Thanks.</p>

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<p>UCLA Math/Econ actually doesn’t require Abstract Algebra, though you do have to take upper div Linear Algebra as it’s the introduction to proofs class. It also requires Probability Theory, not Numerical Analysis. Now if you’re transferring in, I assume you’ve gone through the general ed and lower div requirements. That leaves you with about 2 classes per quarter to complete the major, so you’ll have plenty of space to take other classes you may be interested in. The Math Department has the last two years’ schedules up, so you can see what’s typically offered as compared to the full list of classes.</p>

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<p>thanks. You are right. Abstract Algebra (Math 110A) isn’t required, nor is numerical analysis (although I’ve heard numerical analysis is actually quite useful). </p>

<p>However you didn’t really answer my question. I’m guessing your currently in the math/econ program. Have you found that the professors are teaching you applications of the math and econ your learning, or is it all still pretty theoretical? I’ve heard that the program prepares you well for graduate school work but still doesn’t prepare you that well for private sector work immediately after graduation. What are the majority of your fellow major classmates doing after graduation? Would you feel confident in your abilities to apply the knowledge your learning immediately after graduation? Thanks again.</p>