College Decision - UT Austin vs UPenn (CS)

College Search & Selection
1

Hi all,

I am currently a high school senior trying to weigh my college options.

At UT Austin, I would be in the Computer Science and Business Honor Program and would essentially be getting a dual degree with the two. Being in the honors program would also likely mean getting first preference for things such as internships, recruiting opportunities, etc.

At UPenn, I was admitted to the School of Engineering to study computer science. However, I would definitely want to pick up a dual degree with Wharton as well. Being an ivy-league, this would likely confer certain advantages such as connections, a better alumni network, etc.

Since I am in-state for UT Austin, the cost of attendance would be significantly cheaper there (a difference of around $35,000/year).

Although I’m not 100% certain, I see myself pursuing a career in finance/related fields.

I would appreciate it if anyone could provide insight into making this decision. Additionally, how possible would it be to add on a dual-degree with Wharton once at Penn?

Thanks!

2

Not really. I doubt you could get a programming job after finishing this major because you wouldn’t have learned anywhere near enough CS. Take a look at the CSB program classes at http://csb.utexas.edu/curriculum and then compare it to the UT program for those studying CS at https://cns.utexas.edu/images/CNS/Deans_Office/Student_Records/Web.DegPlans/2018-20_checklists/BS_CS_OPTION1_1820.pdf

This seems to be a new program, launched in the last year or two. So you can’t ask them where their grads have been hired and what they are doing. To me the program looks like most of a business degree with some exposure to CS thru a couple of classes, plus 2 years of tough math. Before you sign up for Computer Science and Business you should have a clear idea of what you plan to do with the degree after graduation.

I don’t know anything about UPenn and Wharton but I doubt you’re going to find any college in the country where you can get two genuine degrees in CS and business as an undergrad. If you know any CS students then you’ll know how hard they work and how many required classes (CS, math, science) they have for their major that there would be not enough time or units to simultaneously get a business degree.

3

While it’s possible to obtain dual degrees at Penn, at this point you’re admitted to the School of Engineering. I’d strongly recommend that you review Penn’s website(especially the Wharton portion) and contact the school, so you have a clear understanding of what you’ll need to do to obtain that dual degree.