<p>Just wondering, I'm about to be a second semester junior and wish I had studied something in this field (maybe computer science.) I can still pick up a major, but my question is if that would do anything for me. I wouldn't be opposed to seeking further education (I've thought about a doctorate) but would a minor allow me to get into a program? And, if it would, would it make me less competitive?</p>
<p>Are you talking about math? Computer Science? What’s your major?</p>
<p>My major isn’t in either. The minor would be in Computer Science.</p>
<p>Most CS masters grad programs I looked into and talked to advisors about told me that they do accept non-CS bachelors students into their program but that those slots are competitive because they are preferenced to the CS majors. The people who were CS undergrads also have an easier time competing for funding too. Most of the CS programs I saw required that you at least have completed: Fundamentals of Programming I and II, Computer Architecture, and Operating Systems. Some also required Automata Theory, software engineering courses, and some others. Most of those courses end up having pre-reqs so you may end up having to take more than what is specifically on the list. If you are considering grad school in CS, you should look up schools that you might be considering going to and see which courses they request you take and verify that you have them completed as an undergrad. I can’t speak much for PhD.</p>
<p>Thanks! I’m also wondering about the job field? If I have the minor and some know how, could I possibly still get a job with it? Or would a degree of some kind still be necessary?</p>
<p>The more CS courses you complete, even if short of a major or minor, the better prepared you will be for either employment or graduate study in CS, although someone with a full CS major may be preferred, and you will likely need to do more “catch up” course work (in graduate school) or self-education (on the job).</p>