Should I double major?

<p>Hi, I am very fond of computer science and physics, in the future I would like to incorporate both aspects when I get a job or working on projects. Currently, my plan is to get a double major in Computer Science and Applied Math then focus my Masters studies on Physic Engineering. Is this a good sounding plan? The double major may take me an extra semester, but I believe the Math degree will only be beneficial for me, and no hindrance since I love math! Things that I find exciting are the new technologies like Tesla Motors and sustainability (more specifically solar energy. What do you guys think? </p>

<p>If you’re somewhat interested in pursuing graduate studies, think about the opportunity costs involved. I don’t know how you want to incorporate physics and computer science, but someone who designs games doesn’t necessarily need to go to graduate school. What kind of job are you thinking about where both “aspects” apply? Designing software / hardware for airplanes or some kind of towers sounds close to it, although I’m not sure if it’s a definite job or field you can go into. </p>

<p>Plan your studies thoroughly. Look at what you need for most graduate programs at any university and obviously don’t focus on only one school, but on many others instead. Maybe you don’t need to double major, but even if you do, it will be beneficial and shows you’re particularly interested in math or have the skills for it. </p>

<p>I think it’s very wrong to think about your studies and relate them to a certain interest you have, per se, Tesla Motors or sustainable energy. Look at what the job market is, what is high in demand, who is high in demand, average salaries and much more. Get some experience as an intern and see if you like it. Aerospace is a similar field as well, I believe. </p>

<p>It’s certainly great to hear you’re passionate about what you want to do or what you plan on doing. By the way, are you a college student or a high school? </p>

<p>@econcalc I am a high school senior, I will be attending college fall 2014.</p>

<p>@econcalc I feel like I need to know physics to have a basic understanding of the world. I have no idea what industry or job I want to be apart of. I just looking to study courses I feel I need to know. </p>

<p>Here is how I see it. The CS/AM are both good in and of themselves. However, if you decide to get a MS in engineering, you will be faced with the need for additional time to properly prepare. For example, if you decide to pursue a MS in EE, you will need to take additional undergrad EE course and there is a certain sequence that needs to be followed. So it is possible you could be into year 6 of studies before getting to the real MS classes in your engineering discipline. It is something to look into.</p>

<p>As for math, I love math so I would never discourage it. However, for a MS degree in engineering, math through diff eq and linear algebra is sufficient. As for physics and a basic understanding of the world, you should get that in your introductory physics sequence. If you went with a CS degree, you should get the math and physics you need.</p>

<p>There is a practical side to your post, i.e. you may seek opportunities in solar energy and new technologies. It struck me that fields like EE and ME would be a good avenue for your studies. Chances are you will get the math and physics you need and there is no reason you can’t add some CS classes to the fold. Just some food for thought.</p>

<p>@geo1113 thanks for your post. You gave me something to look into. One path someone to look into was to get into Computational Physics with an emphasis on CS. What do you think about that?</p>

<p>From what I see, it would be a similar situation. Perhaps another alternative is to look into a dual BS degree. Depending on the school (and your resources), you may be able get say computational physics (or maybe CS)/engineering degrees. It would take at least 5 years, but it could be an option. Another idea could be a 5-year BS/MS in engineering.</p>

<p>One thing you have going for you is this. Whatever direction you take, your first semester curriculum will be very similar. Depending on AP credits, your classes may include Calculus, General Physics, General Chem, a CS class, English, gen ed requirements. But whatever you do, when you get to school this fall, seek out advice from people in the various disciplines under consideration. </p>

<p>It will really come down to is where do you see yourself going. You mentioned new technologies, that leads you down one path. Are you interested in research, that could lead down another. Do you want a desk job or a field job. Computer science could lead you to something like robotics (among other things). </p>

<p>@geo1113 Thank you for the information. Yeah how ever long it takes me, I do not have a problem about. I will look into ME and EE and see which one is more appealing to me. </p>

<p>Okay I decided. I am going to double CS/Physics and focus masters studies on physics engineering </p>