My son, an international student, has been admitted by UIUC for Computer Science and USC for math (Applied and Computational Math). I wonder USC for math can be reasonable selection, considering that he will study CS in graduate school. Can you recommend which option is good for his career?
The CS content of USC Applied and Computational Math is not that much, as can be seen by the degree requirements: Program: Applied and Computational Mathematics (BS) - University of Southern California - Acalog ACMS™
Even though some math majors do go on to graduate study in CS (particularly in more theoretical and mathematical areas of CS), studying as a CS major for undergraduate will usually be better preparation for graduate study in CS.
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Unless USC is cheaper due to either merit or financial aid, I don’t know why it would be a consideration.
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Thank you for your advice. Isn’t it math might be reasonable base for AI?
Your comment has got the point. USC is more expensive than UIUC. One of reason is life in LA is more attractive than that in Illinois.
Are you as the parent willing/able to support a higher lifestyle than the normal poor college student? For me, being a college student in a college town is a better experience than in a normal city. You have the rest of your life to live in places like LA, NY, London, etc. Hopefully, you also have the money to enjoy them.
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Thank you for your advice. College town might be good experience as you noted.
Another vote for UIUC. It is a fantastic school, it is less expensive, and he can study what he wants.
If he likes warm weather he can always visit CA during winter break.
FWIW many students with CS majors can find great jobs without grad school.
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To me, I choose UIUC and I struggle to even begin to justify USC.
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I’d say UIUC which is so strong in CS and matches your son’s long term plans. Perhaps he’ll be like Marc Andreessen and just use the UIUC CS bachelors degree to become a billionaire……
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