Alisha
Psychology and Computer Science?
I'm pretty sure I want to study CS at university but I also have interests in other subjects such as Psychology, Economics, and Education. Is it a good idea to double major in CS and one of these subjects? Which universities, if any, allow this combination? #computer-science #psychology #education #economics #double-major
4 answers
Linda Ann Robinson, Ph.D.
Linda Ann’s Answer
Most major universities would allow you to double-major in computer science and any one of the other disciplines that you've mentioned. When you are a freshman, it's a great opportunity to explore many of the academic disciplines that are available. By exploring what is "out there" you might discover a career path that you didn't even know was available to you. Follow your passion, but keep your options open. You are still young! Much success to you in your explorations.
Scott D. Leonard, Psy.D.
Scott D.’s Answer
Forget the double major and focus on one topic. In computer science you can get a pretty good job with an undergraduate degree. In psychology you will need at least a masters degree and probably a terminal degree to get a job doing anything substantial.
Hmm suppose it could be better to be an expert in one field rather than trying to be average in many...thanks!
Alisha
NANCY W CAMPBELL
NANCY W’s Answer
Hello Alisha -
First, let me congratulate you on your ambition! However, I do agree with the thought that you should take your time in choosing a major, or double-major, and not spread yourself too thin. With that said, my son was enrolled in college as a chemical engineering major with an IT minor and most all of his jobs have been tech-related, all of which has added to his practical knowledge of that field. You might consider that kind of configuration, rather than a "double-major," per se. With that major/minor idea in mind, you might consider switching positions and have the IT/computer science as a major with a psychology minor. With the IT field as broadly applicable as it is, employment possibilities could open in many areas, in some of which a knowledge of psychology could assist you in navigating office politics and human relations.
Hope these thoughts help you...all the best to you!
Thank you so much for your advice and kind wishes! I think a major/minor plan is a great way to go
Alisha
Great...glad I could help!
NANCY W CAMPBELL
Diego Puppin
Diego’s Answer
Hi Alisha, I agree with Linda you should take your time in college to explore, but make sure you don't stretch yourself too thin.
There are double degrees that would give you an edge in the job market (for instance, CS and business), but other combinations that would make you a very odd hybrid. Big engineering companies may not need your psychology skills, and you would find yourself behind other candidates that were more focused on CS and have more experience. I interviewed 100+ candidates at Google and Twitter, and your core CS must be extremely solid to get a position there.
So, feel free to take some classes beyond your core and explore, but don't get too distracted :-)