<p>Definitely, with a school as strong as Berkeley in computer science, I feel like a B.A. should be more than good enough. Does anyone know if the BA program is actually easier to transfer into though? I noticed that it had a 37% acceptance rate last year, but berkeley’s website says that their spots for “independent majors” are very limited (this is considered an “independent major”) so maybe it was just the way it worked out last year that there was a high acceptance rate. Basically, I want to study computer science at Berkeley no matter what, so I’d probably rather apply to the program I have a better chance of being accepted to.</p>
<p>As a note from someone who is married to a computer scientist: CS can be more theoretical than EECS, which tends toward the more hands-on practical. There can be deep philosophical differences between the two. In general, computer science focuses on expanding the limits of what computers can do through new algorithms or inventive approaches to what already exists, while EECS focuses on creating new hardware and designs. While there is overlap between the two, you should choose the one that most fits your own interests because you won’t likely succeed if you’re in a “second choice” area just because you think you’ll earn more money. Being a software engineer is entry-level computer science; if you think about going to grad school, you’ll be doing a lot more than programming. </p>
<p>A degree from Berkeley is a degree from Berkeley. As long as you do well, you will have good job prospects.</p>
<p>Hi there OP - good friend of mine went with the BA CS option and she had NO trouble finding and starting a fantastic position immediately after graduating. And may I just say she is a superb programmer. 
So by going the BA route you will certainly not be lacking in any of the technical skills needed to be successful in your job search. The courses will be tough, demanding, and are certain to prepare you well for the industry. In fact my friend says her job is a piece of cake compared to her work at Berkeley. Best of luck!</p>
<p>Now I’ve just got to get accepted haha</p>
<p>Got accepted. Deciding between here and UCLA. I’d still love to hear a little more about the BA program. Is there anyone on this forum that’s in the program that I could talk to?</p>
<p>I have several friends that are in the BA program.</p>
<p>Here’s how it works:</p>
<p>The L&S CS and EECS programs have a huge amount of overlap. With how the university works, I’d have to say that’s it’s even difficult to distinguish between the two on-campus.</p>
<p>The idea is that you’re required to satisfy a lot more technical lower divs and follow stricter guidelines for upper division classes if you’re in EECS. In L&S CS, you just swap the technical lower-divs for seven breadth classes in the humanities. The hands-off nature of the college makes it so that the only real difference other than requirements is which advisor you see (quite unimportant).</p>
<p>The upper division courses are mostly the same.</p>
<p>I went with EECS instead of L&S CS because I strongly prefer technical courses over arts and humanities. If you’re the other way around, there is no shame in L&S CS.</p>
<p>I’m in L&S CS. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions about the program</p>