Yes, I did google this and i did find the thread from 2012, but i am still a little lost. Is the main argument for the college that fact that there is more flexibility with changing majors and the diversity of the education instead of it’s depth? Is this coupled with the fact that it is easier to go from college to engineering than the other way around used to say that the college is better? For me, someone who is very certain he’s going to do a CS major with a minor in math/physics, Columbia engineering sounds perfect for me. Not having to deal with any subjects other than the ones like also sounds great. Although you could also argue that I should apply to the college and transfer over if I want (Since it’s relatively easy). Any thoughts on this would be great.
Not exactly accurate. The Core in engineering requires fewer courses, but still include classes you likely would not elect to take.
A minor in math or physics is not an option, although you can minor in applied math or applied physics.
As a current Columbia student, I’ve never heard anyone say CC (college) is better than SEAS (engineering), and you can take classes offered at both schools no matter which you’re in. It might be the case that the college has a slightly lower acceptance rate (haven’t checked the exact numbers but wouldn’t surprise me since, well, there are just generally fewer people studying engineering anywhere…)
CS major is offered in both CC and SEAS. For the major, CC has 40+ required credits and SEAS has 60+, thus you might argue that CC allows more room for double majoring/minoring. Other than that the difference is minimal since all CS classes are offered jointly and CC/SEAS students take the same classes.
Just as skieurope said, SEAS also has many core requirements, although much more STEM-focused, such as physics and chemistry. I guess it comes down to, are you more applied math/physics or theoretical? If applied, go for SEAS, vice versa. In addition, are you more willing to take calculus/chemistry/STEM oriented core classes or humanity centered (literature humanities, contemporary civilization, etc.)? If STEM, go for SEAS, if humanities, go for college.