Should I major in Computer Science for Math Graduate School?

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In summary, the conversation is about a student in the University of Toronto who is currently majoring in Math and Computer Science. They are considering dropping their Computer Science major due to the high tuition and a required project course that they are not confident about. They are wondering if it would be better to have a minor in Computer Science instead, for their math graduate school application. The expert recommends having basic programming skills, but does not think a major or minor in Computer Science is necessary for grad school.
  • #1
chhan92
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Hello!
I am a student in University of Toronto,
and I am currently in Math Specialist (basically Math Major with more required courses and forced to take honors class) and Computer Major, but my Computer Major forces me to pay twice of the regular tuition. Also, I have to take a Computer Project Course, which I am not confident getting A.

Do you recommend keeping Computer Major for going into Math Graduate School?
Or Computer Minor (project course not required, less tuition) would be suitable too?
 
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  • #2
Dropping the computer major will not affect your grad school application in mathematics. So if it's less work and money, then you should consider dropping it.
 
  • #3
chhan92 said:
Hello!
I am a student in University of Toronto,
and I am currently in Math Specialist (basically Math Major with more required courses and forced to take honors class) and Computer Major, but my Computer Major forces me to pay twice of the regular tuition. Also, I have to take a Computer Project Course, which I am not confident getting A.

Do you recommend keeping Computer Major for going into Math Graduate School?
Or Computer Minor (project course not required, less tuition) would be suitable too?

Hey chhan92 and welcome to the forums.

If you want to go to math graduate school, I recommend you have some familiarity with basic programming. I don't think you will need to know too much more than this to be honest but if you have done a little programming, or used things like R, SAS, Maple, MATLAB and so on, then this should probably be sufficient.

You will not need a major or a minor for this only a subject or two in basic programming.
 
  • #4
Thank you for your kind response.
 
  • #5


I cannot make a decision for you, but I can provide some information to help you make an informed decision. It ultimately depends on your career goals and interests.

If you are considering pursuing a graduate degree in math, having a strong foundation in computer science can be beneficial. Many fields within mathematics, such as data science and computational mathematics, require knowledge of computer science. Additionally, having a background in computer science can open up job opportunities in industries such as finance, technology, and research.

However, if you are not confident in your ability to excel in the computer science project course and are concerned about the added cost of your major, it may be worth considering a minor in computer science instead. This will still provide you with a basic understanding of computer science principles, but without the added financial burden and stress of a project course.

Ultimately, it is important to consider your strengths, interests, and career goals when deciding on a major. You may also want to speak with advisors and professionals in the field to gather more information and insights. Good luck with your decision!
 

FAQ: Should I major in Computer Science for Math Graduate School?

What factors should I consider when choosing a major?

Some important factors to consider when choosing a major include your interests, skills, career goals, job market demand, and potential salary. It is also important to research the curriculum and requirements for each major to ensure it aligns with your academic strengths and interests.

How do I know if I have chosen the right major?

Choosing the right major is a personal decision and can be different for everyone. However, some signs that you have chosen the right major may include feeling excited and engaged in your coursework, performing well academically, and seeing potential career opportunities in your field of study.

What if I want to change my major?

It is common for students to change their majors during their college career. If you are considering changing your major, it is important to speak with an academic advisor to discuss the potential implications and steps needed to switch. It is also helpful to research the new major and speak with students or faculty in that department to gain a better understanding of the coursework and career options.

How important is it to have a specific major for my desired career?

While some careers may require a specific major, many employers value a diverse range of skills and experiences. It is important to research the job requirements for your desired career and see if your major aligns with those skills. Additionally, internships, extracurricular activities, and networking can also help you gain relevant experience and skills for your desired career.

Can I double major or have a minor in addition to my major?

Many universities offer the option to double major or have a minor in addition to your major. However, it is important to consider the workload and time commitment for each option. Speaking with an academic advisor can help you determine if pursuing a double major or minor is feasible and beneficial for your academic and career goals.

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