I’m a sophomore studying at College B. At first I planned to major in only one subject (Computer Science) and spend the rest of time on a variety of other courses (i.e. math, psychology, music…) However, I gradually found out at least 90 percent of students here major in 2 or 3 subjects. Single major students are even considered weird here. So I’m thinking about majoring in a 2nd subject (Mathematics).
A regular semester involves 4 courses. However, I’m currently 5-course behind. (1. for some reason I’m currently on a leave from campus during this fall [4 courses] 2. I failed to pass a standard test when I entered the college, so the school allowed me to take at most 3 courses in my first semester [1 course]) Even so, I still hope to finish classes in 5 semesters and graduate on time.
The conditions of the related majors are:
Computer Science: there are 2 kinds of major degrees
regular degree (designed for those who simply work in companies after graduation):
include: 9 courses — 5 core courses + 4 electives (my progress: 7 courses — 3 core + 4 electives left)
advanced degree (designed for those who may take up lab research after graduation)
include: 14 courses — 7 core courses + 2 math courses + 5 electives (my progress: 10 courses — 5 core + 5 electives left)
Mathematics: only 1 kind of degree
include: 9 courses --- 5 core courses + 4 electives (my progress 9 courses --- 5 core + 4 electives left, although I've taken 2 math courses during my first year, both of them are basic math courses and don't satisfy the requirements)
however, a math minor includes: 5 courses — 2 core + 3 electives
(usually, a core course is the prequisity for an elective. it’s like, first take cores and then electives)
Also, I know that it’s impossible to have all the courses as math and computer classes, because I still have to take classes that fulfill general requirements (i.e. oral communication, creative arts. I still have to take about 4 or 5 such kind of courses)
Now I’m confused what path would be the best for me to take…
An advanced degree for computer + a major for math? definitely too much.
A regular degree for computer + a major for math?
An advanced degree for computer + a minor for math?
An advanced degree for computer alone?
…
What’s your opinion? If you were me, what kind of choice will you make?
Looking forward to your help. I really appreciate it.
No one can answer this question for you because we don’t know the whole story. Reading it from the other side of my screen, I see red flags for someone who started college at a remedial math level and wanting to major in math. Why? Bc I wonder if you were at a remedial level bc you are a weak math student. However, that may not be the case at all and it could be simply bc you were limited by your pre-college options. Only you can assess your actual understanding of math and the motivation for pursuing higher level courses.
Most kids who major in math are strong math students and at a minimum like it. By itself, I am unsure what a math major will really gain you when searching for employment in CS, but I have no knowledge of the CS field. Hopefully others will chime in about its real value bc you should have an understanding of whether or not having a math double would be a real advantage. Have you investigated what employers prefer in terms of matching your career interests with the different paths? Have you met with an advisor to ask questions about the different paths?
I have a son doubling with math, but he loves it. He is really only doubling bc math is something he wants to study. Some of the classes have the added benefit of assisting him in his physics studies, others not so much. For him it is not utilitarian. It is knowledge gained. If you love math and would enjoy taking the courses, follow the path that fits you and not simply the one other students take. Same if you don’t want you take the additional math. You can always take a broad range of courses that suit your interests.
You don’t have to double-major simply because most other students seem to do it. 90 percent is probably a high estimate. But even if it’s not - so what? Do what you want to do. If you were planning on majoring in CS and just exploring other interests through classes here and there, continue to do that, and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing.
My advice would be not to double major. It sounds like you are a little behind, which is fine. Don’t compare yourself to others. I would think it more important to graduate on time…if you want to take some more math classes as electives, go ahead.
Adding a second major will almost certainly adversely affect the work you are putting in on the CS major. If anything, I would simply add a minor in a second subject that you really enjoy.