Computer Science with a science emphasis

Stanford has been mentioned in a few of the posts. Compared to other colleges, it’s particularly big on joint degrees, degrees with integrated content between different programs, etc. They offer a CS + X program which combines CS with what is usually a humanities major, integrating content between the two in a way that reduces the number classes required for each major. As I understand it, CS + X students typically graduate having taken the usual ~180 credits that one would take for a one bachelor’s. ~40% of CS/Engineering undergrad students do a co-terminal master’s degree where they simultaneously pursue a BS and MS degree . They also have programs that combine CS, with things like business and law degrees. When I was a student, I did a program that was designed to foster tech entrepreneurship by combining a bachelor’s in engineering with 2 master’s – one in an engineering related field and one in a business related field. I am not aware of a program specific to CS + Chemistry, that integrates content between the 2, but I expect one could be self-designed with integrated content/goals. Or a student could do the default dual degree type program and/or minor.

One aspect of selecting a college that is often ignored is how location fits with where you’d like to live and work after graduating. Stanford is in Silicon Valley and many key SV companies were founded by Stanford alumni/students and have related networking/internship connections, strong presence in job fair, including smaller startups. I expect this SV connection and related typical 6-figure starting salary relates to why CS has become Stanford’s most popular major in recent years. Chemistry is far less popular than CS, with likely under 20 students per year, most of whom are probably planning to pursue a career in medicine. However, it is still an excellent and well ranked program. In contrast, MIT/CMU would likely have better connections among nearby companies in their respective areas.