<p>Hey everyone,</p>
<p>Let it be known that I have no real knowledge in either, so I'm starting on the same grounds for both. I am, however, extremely interested in both of them.</p>
<p>I need to choose soon, though. I'm prepared to work my butt for either.</p>
<p>So here's the question:</p>
<p>Which one is easier >_<</p>
<p>There’s no easy answer. Whichever one you are more passionate about will likely be easier. If you really can’t decide:</p>
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<p>Eh, there’s kind of a big difference. You might want to figure out if you like more proof-based ‘pure’ math or if you like …well, statistics. Statistics could mean a lot of things in relation to computation, but probably not really computer science. There are some things, but the majority will not be statistics related in a traditional sense. If you like computers and statistics, there is a huge demand for people who can write computational and simulational models, physical and non-physical. Wall street employs these sorts of people and calls them quantitative analysts. Most sciences require students to be able to do some sort of computational modelling.</p>
<p>Looking at the different degree programs, I’ll likely stick with stats, but try and talk to the C.S. department and see what I can do about developing a minor type program.</p>
<p>Ugh, or not. I really need to pick something and stay with it :/</p>
<p>Computer science is more fun. Stats is boring. But of course, that’s a personal choice…</p>
<p>There’s no harm in taking a probability or stats class your first and also taking a programming class. See what you like better.</p>
<p>The prerequisites for both classes should be really similar at least until sophomore year with the exception of maybe one or two extra classes which might fill some other graduation requirements. Try your hand at both and maybe you could even double major.</p>
<p>I’m going to add more and see what you guys think.</p>
<p>I originally applied to college as an English major due to my double 5s on the AP tests. At my school we were only really exposed to the liberal arts, and not many opportunities were available for those wanting to pursue the sciences or math. </p>
<p>However, upon coming to college, I’ve realized that I’m an analytical person, but I find the liberals arts a giant waste of time. If I want to read some books, I’ll do so. Libraries are free, college is not.</p>
<p>I succeeded relatively well in the more advanced courses in high school, getting a 95% in Pre Calc, and a 82% in Physics. I’d hope that these can help to sufficient stepping stones for college and a more mathy major.</p>
<p>I think one of the worst problems I have is my inferiority complex. I’m extremely intimidated, and don’t consider myself particularly intelligent compared to some college kids. </p>
<p>I hope more can provide some input as to what I should look into.</p>
<p>You feel intimidated by the intelligence level of tour schoolmates? I’m guessing your university doesn’t have a business school.</p>
<p>In all seriousness you sound like a smart guy. There is no reason to think lesser of yourself or even to compare yourself to your classmates. Just focus on yourself, your progress, and your goals and you’ll be fine. Also, you’ll likely find that a lot of people in college talk themself up because they have inferiority complexes and are usually doing worse than you.</p>
<p>IMO, a degree in Statistics (which is rarer) can separate you from those with degrees in Computer Science (which is more common).</p>
<p>There is a lot of crossover between the two degrees. About 1/4 of my Statistics courses are computer science based (C programming, SAS programming, Discrete Mathematics, Numerical Calculus, and some upper level Stats classes that require programming skills).</p>
<p>I can’t give you much detail into what CS students do on the upper levels, but Statistics gives into a lot of methods and analysis classes. Mathematical modeling through regression analysis is a big part.</p>
<p>Most of the math prerequisites between the two degrees are similar, Calc 1-3, Linear Algebra, Proof classes.</p>
<p>Both are classified as “Quantitative Degrees” when you start looking for jobs, so they both open up a lot of doors in similar industries.</p>
<p>IMO, the difference (in the real world) between a CS major and a Stats major is the CS major wants to create programs and solve problems through computer development, and could be more of a “techie” person. A stats major is more interested in the outcome of data analysis (which is most often done with a computer) in order to make inferences and decisions - is more of an analytical person.</p>
<p>You may want to look into the “computational” type majors, like Computational Math, Computational Engineering/Science. There are even a few schools with Computational Statistics programs.</p>
<p>@GLOBALTRAVELER</p>
<p>My school offers computational economics, geography, and economics majors, but they’re B.A.s. I know that in the long run it won’t matter that my CS degree was in Science or Arts, but I fear that a computational route might mean that I’d miss out on some of the more theoretical classes which could help me stay competitive in the job market.</p>
<p>That’s why theory is important right? Because you an apply it and get the hang of the newer and newer stuff being released?</p>
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<p>Actually most “computational” type programs are “applied” versions of the more broad major. Many computational mathematics programs are called “applied and computational mathematics”. Computational itself is taking the theory and applying computer/computational techniques to solve a practical problem.</p>
<p>^
But I mean that’s why it’s important to learn the theory behind everything that’s happening, you can apply the theory in your head and understand the changes made with the rapid pace of technology?</p>