I am currently a first year college student with enough credits to be considered a sophomore. I am currently a Mathematics and Computer Science double major, and I am wondering whether I should graduate in 3 years with a mathematics major and computer science minor, or graduate in 4 years with a double major. Math is my passion, but I like computer science too, and it could be very helpful to major in both. I also may or may not go to graduate school for applied mathematics, if that makes a difference. What do you think I should do, and what factors do you think should influence my decision.
If you want to go to graduate school, take four years and double major. If the priority is getting out of school and saving money, graduate in three.
I think it would be more helpful imo to double major if finances aren’t a major issue. A solid proficiency in Math and Comp Sci major coursework will carry you farther than either one on their own. Plus I imagine they complement each other a lot more than say, a French/Environmental Science double major.
But if the additional year means a year’s worth of debt - or another year of compounding interest on unsubsidized loans, then I’d forego the second major.
If you intend to go on to a PhD program in applied math and intend to stay the 7th and/or 8th semester(s), you may want to consider taking additional math courses as well as additional CS courses (assuming your applied math application subject is CS) for better preparation.