Chemistry major with a passion for code. What are my chances of a career in computer science?

Chance Me / Match Me!
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<p>Hello,</p>

<p>I will be getting my BA for chemistry from Boston University in May 2015, but I really really want to pursue a career in my minor of computer science. </p>

<p>Why did I choose chemistry as a major?
Like many at 18 years old, I didn't know what I wanted to do. Therefore, I chose a major that would challenge me. And did chemistry do JUST that. But I can't imagine myself happy in a career of chemistry. Though chemistry is an interesting topic and has helped me achieve valuable critical thinking and analytical skills, my passion for code cannot be ignored. </p>

<p>I will be completing my computer science minor in my final year here at BU, but I know that I am merely scratching the surface of computer science, putting me at disadvantage when applying to jobs that require a stronger background in the field. </p>

<p>Therefore, I am wondering how I could even out the playing field?
After college, should I seek internships (paid or unpaid?) before I seek jobs?
Should I apply to computer science jobs anyway and learn the required skills on the job (this option is most appealing to me, as someone who wants to move out of the house right away after college and will need to pay rent)?
Is a strong science background in chemistry going to mean anything to tech employers?</p>

<p>I do not know EXACTLY what I want to do in the computer science field, as I have only learned Java. However, I know that using algorithms and critical thinking to solve real life problems via programming languages is something I would love to do. </p>

<p>Thank you for reading this fairly long discussion and I can't wait to see your responses!</p>

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<p>While this might be a better topic for Career Confidential (hey, maybe you should start that), there are certainly opportunities to combine the two items. Much of drug discovery is now done “in silico”, meaning by programs that look at all of the attributes of the protein target and design model molecules that will bind to the target. </p>

<p>New areas that are similar are in analysis of huge datasets like genome sequencing or mass spec runs. All of that takes advantage of the chemistry background. But many of these will require advanced degrees.</p>