Computer Science at Davis vs. Berkeley

Hi, I’m a computer science student transferring from community college this fall. I’m interested in software engineering, and I also like math and it’s application in computer science. I got accepted to both UC Davis and UC Berkeley, and was hoping to maybe get a bit more insight on a few things.

Firstly, If I went to Davis I would be getting a BS, while at Berkeley I would be getting a BA. I’ve heard from some that getting a BS would be better for computer science. However, others say that getting a BS over a BA matters less, and that getting a degree from Berkeley would be more helpful. To what degree are these things true? I know I’d be getting a good education at both schools, so does this even matter all that much?

In addition, since I like math, I would like to continue studying it. I have already taken a good amount of upper division math classes, as well as a good deal of science courses. Some say that these courses might “go to waste” if I get a BA. How true is this? I still want to pursue mathematics, and am considering double majoring or at least minoring in math. Would being in a BA program affect my ability to do this (e.g. not being able to enroll in certain classes or something)?

Finally, I’ve heard that students can compete with each other over grades on both campuses, even to the point of sabotaging each other. I’m okay with a competitive environment, but I do prefer an environment where students are more willing to help each other than step over each other. So how present is this kind of competition on both campuses?

Anyways, thanks for taking the time to read. I know that it’s really just up to me in the end. I’ve heard a lot from professors, and I was just hoping to get some more insight and some advice based on personal experiences. Thanks again!

At UCB, you can do a BS (CoE EECS) or BA (L&S CS). For getting software jobs, either is fine. However, for admission, EECS is direct admission but probably harder to get admitted to, while if you apply for L&S CS, you get admitted to L&S, and must earn a 3.3 GPA in CS 61A, 61B, 70 (counting only grades earned at UCB) to declare the L&S CS major.

At UCB, it will be easier to do a second major in math (which is in L&S) or take more math courses as an L&S CS major than an EECS major. Math courses of relevance to CS include abstract algebra, number theory, and cryptography.

Cutthroat competition is probably more of an issue in courses or majors filled with pre-meds.

https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/infocenter/transfers-major can give you an idea of transfer admission selectivity.