Computer Science, mathematics, or applied math?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for selecting a major between computer science, mathematics, and applied mathematics, particularly in the context of interests in problem-solving, algorithms, and the mathematical foundations of computer science. Participants share their experiences and preferences regarding the curriculum and career implications of each field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to focus on the mathematical and problem-solving aspects of computer science rather than programming, suggesting a preference for applied mathematics with a concentration in computer science.
  • Another participant shares a similar sentiment, indicating that their experience in computer science courses became less engaging over time, leading to doubts about pursuing a full degree in the field.
  • A participant notes that a solid understanding of data structures and algorithms does not necessarily require deep knowledge of pure mathematics, suggesting that basic math suffices for computing complexity bounds.
  • One participant advocates for a double major, highlighting that many credits overlap between computer science and mathematics, potentially extending the duration of study by only a semester or year.
  • Another participant recommends pursuing a degree in applied mathematics, arguing that it provides the necessary mathematical background for computer graphics and related fields, while also allowing for computer science coursework.
  • Concerns are raised about the adequacy of computer science curricula in covering the mathematical foundations necessary for advanced topics like computer graphics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the adequacy of computer science programs in providing necessary mathematical knowledge, with some advocating for applied mathematics as a more suitable path. There is no consensus on the best approach, as opinions vary regarding the importance of pure versus applied mathematics in relation to computer science.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention personal experiences with coursework and express uncertainty about their future career paths, indicating that their decisions may depend on individual interests and the specific offerings of their universities.

Amaz1ng
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Basically, I'm going to be enrolling into a local university soon but there is a small dilemma as to what exactly I should major in. At first, I thought I wanted computer science but after doing a basic 3d game and tons of other little small projects in various languages (word processor, social networking site, etc) and not having motivation to really finish any of them because it just got boring, I realized I was more interested in the math or problem solving aspect of what I was doing.

I would like to be able to implement complex algorithms for speed, come up with elegant solutions for my problems, and most of all be able to understand the complicated maths when I google for things that I need. I want to CREATE. D:

Part of me wants to do pure mathematics but I don't want to be restricted to a research or teaching job. I guess part of that comes from the idea that I don't have what it takes to be in a research position coming up with completely NEW ideas and I don't really like the idea of teaching. I do like the subject though and I'd spend all my spare time on it if I could.

I think I should do applied mathematics with a concentration in CS. I feel like full CS degree will not give me the math ability that I desire. I actually bought a book called data structures and algorithms in c++ and it is very math heavy. I am not getting everything I can out of the book because I do not fully understand the math in it. But I feel like, if I knew the math, the CS concepts are easy to pickup on.

What does everyone think? I'm rambling. O_o
 
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I'm in the exact same boat. I've taken 2 CS courses and they've all been fun until the last two weeks of the 2nd one, which is mind-numbingly boring. Like even the professor wants to fall asleep it's so boring. The projects went from fun and challenging to extremely frustrating. It's really not something I can see myself devoting 40+ hours a week to.

In short, if you don't find yourself interested, I wouldn't do it if there is other objections. I'd love to hear others input on applied math though.
 
Like many others on this forum, you're probably interested in the algorithmic part of CS right? As opposed to the software engineering, programming languages etc.

To have a good sense of data structures and algorithms up to the usual undergrad level, you don't need to have a very deep understanding of pure maths. You only need to know the basic math involved in computing complexity bounds, I suppose.

I am terrible in my pure math, and barely better in my engineering math classes, but I can ace my CS classes. So I am surprised about your difficulty with the book. Who is the author?
 
Good topic!

i opted for Computer Science.i had great interest in it.
 
I'm also interested in this. Why don't you double major? Most of the credits overlap anyway, it will probably just mean an extra semester or year.
 
One of the major problems with the computer science curriculum in regards to computer graphics and upper-division computer science is it rarely covers enough math to do GOOD computer graphics/science. I would therefore recommend getting a degree in Applied Mathematics, there are several reasons I pick this one.

For one you will get enough of the math you need to do graphics development and there is quite a lot of math involved in the computer graphics aspect. The pure math aspect is not very important in computer science, you rarely have to do a formal proof for example in computer science.

Furthermore a degree in Applied Mathematics will often (check with your school) allow you to take Computer Science classes for some of your curriculum. Especially if you intend to play around with higher end computer graphics this will become important. Sharer's for example require you to understand some aspects from optics and there is usually a strong math/geometry background required to do them especially linear algebra. This will become even more important if you do ray tracers.

That being said, a degree in just Applied math is probably not enough, you may need to do self study or even get a secondary degree in Computer Science to fully understand all aspects of this field.
 
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