Choosing Between Math and Computer Science: A Scientist's Perspective

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision of whether to pursue a degree in Mathematics or Computer Science (CS) at university. Participants explore the implications of each choice, considering factors such as personal interests, job market prospects, and self-study capabilities in both fields.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong passion for both mathematics and programming but feels pressured to choose CS due to its popularity and perceived job security.
  • Another participant suggests a dual approach of majoring in CS with a minor in mathematics, emphasizing the job opportunities available in the private sector for CS graduates.
  • A different viewpoint argues that if the original poster is already proficient in programming, they might find a CS degree unnecessary and could instead focus on mathematics or another area of interest.
  • Some participants highlight the value of self-study in mathematics, questioning whether it is feasible to learn mathematics independently without formal education.
  • One participant shares their experience of having taken only a few CS classes while pursuing a degree in physics and mathematics, suggesting that practical experience and self-study can be sufficient for entering the job market.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the necessity of a formal CS degree versus pursuing mathematics. Some advocate for a CS degree due to job prospects, while others argue for focusing on mathematics or self-study, indicating a lack of consensus on the best path forward.

Contextual Notes

Participants' suggestions depend on personal experiences and perceptions of the job market, which may vary by location and individual circumstances. The discussion does not resolve the question of whether one can effectively learn mathematics independently without formal study.

dbayraktar28
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi, firstly sorry for my bad English

I want to ask a question to you about studying Math or CS in the university. I'm 16 and I've been dealing with CS (programming,algorithms,artificial intelligence etc.) since I was 5. I love programming and mathematics so much, but I'm undecided what I will studying in the university. I would like to studying math but everyone is saying to me that I study CS, and the reason of that is that CS is very popular. So, I'm undecided about what I'll study.. Will I be vacated if I study mathematics? I love math so much, and CS too..

I believe that I can learn programming good enough on my own.. if I don't study CS. But can I learn math good enough on my own, if I don't study math?

What is your suggestions about that?
Please help me about it...

Sorry for my bad English again .. and thank you..
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Sounds like a recipe for a major in computer science with a minor in mathematics! I highly recommend this route, you'll thank me when you get near guaranteed job opportunities after your undergraduate degree in the private sector. Majoring in math with no computer science will make life after school without a graduate degree very difficult by comparison (trust me..)

Undergraduate degrees in computer science and engineering are money makers, physics and mathematics will mean trouble even getting a decent job (if you're in America, I don't know about other places.)
 
Thank you so much for your suggestion..

I think, i will choose computer science.. Well, how can I do to learn mathematics as good enough on my own? Can I learn mathematics as good enough on my own? Is it possible?
 
Hey dbayraktar28 and welcome to the forums.

If you are as good as you say you are, then I would not do a CS degree.

I would instead focus on what not well versed in which would be mathematics or something that isn't CS.

The reason is simple: you will get bored and it will mostly be an absolute waste of your time.
 
100% agree with chiro on this one. I only took 3 CS classes and did a physics and math degree and that was plenty of enough CS for me. Anything beyond those 3 classes have been all self-study or experience on the job. A resume with any degree and as much experience as you say you have will land you a job there's no reason to go formally through those CS classes because, like chiro said also, they will just waste your time. On a side note, I would make sure that you have your hand in some projects while you're at school. With your background you can easily get into a computational physics or CS project at school and then throw that on your resume.
 

Similar threads

Admissions BS Physics to Ph.D. in Computer Science
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Courses I can't figure out what field I should study
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Can I manage to do both: Computer Science and Research in Physics?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Courses Advanced Math for Computational Material Science Engineering
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Other Is it too late to pursue physics?
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Sources to study computational materials science
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Courses Need help in choosing math classes for a HS student
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
4K
Programs I chose math instead of physics. Was it a mistake?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Please someone respond -- I need to know if I continue with CS
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Programs Masters in Eng/CS after a Math Bachelors
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K