I originally applied as undergraduate with an intended major of Computer Engineering at UCI and UCD. Recently, I realized that maybe I might want to go towards the Computer Science route if I can (because I like software more than hardware), but I know it’s dangerously competitive. I’m also considering Software Engineering. I’m wondering if I should stick with Computer Engineering (which I know is competitive, but maybe not as competitive as CS), switch it to CS, or just not worry about it?
I also noticed that they have Computer Science in L&S at Davis, is that worth a shot if I can change from the portal?
Some stats: 4.3wgpa, 3.97uw ACT 32, SATII 720 on Math II and 690 on Chemistry, and lots of community service and ECs. Also, my alternate major is Applied Math.
Once you have submitted your UC Application, most UC’s will not allow to change your major until you are accepted and attend the 1st quarter/semester at the UC. If the UCD portal allows for major change and you feel CS is what you want to pursue, then I would make the change. The College of Engineering admits by major (academic dept) at UCD but L&S does not. L&S admits by division within the College, so it could be an easier admit. For UCI, CS is in a completely different College and you cannot change majors until you are accepted and have completed 1 quarter at UCI.
UC Davis requirements to change major to L&S CS:
http://www.cs.ucdavis.edu/undergraduate/cs-major/change-of-major/
UC Irvine requirements to change major to CS:
http://www.changeofmajor.uci.edu/CoM_ICS.html
Both schools have CSE majors that may have different admission criteria for those changing majors into them. UC Irvine also has a software engineering major.