What is the Best Major to Pair With Computer Science?

If you are studying computer science, you already know that it’s a field that is constantly evolving and being integrated into various industries. As a result, pairing computer science with another major can give you specialized skills that will help you stand out in the job market. Students who double major in an area outside of computer science can also gain a different perspective and set of skills, which can be valuable in a tech-based workplace.

Common Majors to Pair With Computer Science

Data Science

Data science is one of the most popular majors to pair with computer science. The skills taught in data science focus on collecting, processing, and analyzing data using computer-based methods, making it a natural pairing with computer science. With a strong foundation in both computer science and data science, graduates are an asset in industries that rely heavily on data processing and analysis, such as finance, healthcare, and technology.

According to College Factual, the top schools for computer science and data science are Carnegie Mellon University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the California Institute of Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Georgia Institute of Technology.

Electrical Engineering

Another major that pairs well with computer science is electrical engineering. Electrical engineering majors learn about the design and application of electrical systems, including computer hardware, mobile devices, and other electronics that make use of computer technology. Together with computer science, electrical engineering can lead to careers in industries such as aerospace, telecommunications, and robotics. Combining both of these majors creates a strong foundation for creating new devices and software that make use of emerging technologies.

The top schools for computer science and electrical engineering are Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, California Institute of Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Georgia Institute of Technology, according to US News and World Report.

Mathematics

Math and computer science are two fields that often overlap. Studying mathematics alongside computer science can help students develop their problem-solving skills and gain expertise in data analysis, advanced algorithms, and other computational techniques. With a degree in both computer science and math, students can enter fields such as finance, cryptography, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, double majors in math and computer science can become valuable in research-oriented careers, such as data science and software engineering.

Some of the top schools for computer science and mathematics include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, California Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Harvard University, and Princeton University.

Statistics

Studying statistics alongside computer science can give students a powerful combination of skills in mathematical modeling, data analysis, and programming. A degree in statistics can lead to careers in industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology, where the ability to interpret and analyze data is essential. Students with combined majors in computer science and statistics can also pursue careers in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

According to College Factual, the top schools for computer science and statistics are Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, University of California at Berkeley, and Columbia University in the City of New York.

Humanities and Social Sciences With Computer Science

While data science, electrical engineering, math, and statistics are the most common majors paired with computer science, students can also double major in humanities or social sciences. Choosing subjects in the liberal arts can help develop critical thinking and communication skills that can supplement the technical expertise learned in computer science.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does a double major in computer science and another discipline take longer to complete?

  Typically, adding another major will extend the time it takes to complete a degree. Depending on the major, students may need to take additional courses and fulfill additional requirements to earn both degrees. Some students may choose to add a minor instead of a second major to avoid having to prolong their studies. It’s important to meet with an academic advisor to create a realistic plan that spans the necessary coursework and account for additional time needed for both majors.

• What are some additional majors that pair well with computer science?

  Computer science can be paired with a variety of majors, including economics, graphic design, psychology, biology, and philosophy. There are endless possibilities when it comes to pairing computer science with another discipline. Some students may also choose to pursue interdisciplinary studies that combine computer science with several other subjects, such as computational biology, systems engineering, or environmental science.

• What kind of careers can I pursue with a double major in computer science and another discipline?

  With a double major in computer science and another discipline, students can pursue careers in almost any field. Many graduates work in software development, data science, or network and system administration. However, having diverse knowledge and skills can also lead to consulting, management, law, and even entrepreneurship. Possibilities vary depending on the majors students choose to pair with computer science, as each will have different applications and specialties.

Choosing the best major to pair with computer science depends on your personal interests and career goals. Whether you choose data science, electrical engineering, math, statistics, or something completely different, the important thing is to identify a second major that complements your existing strengths and will set you apart in the tech job market.