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Is Computer Science a harder major than pre-med?

I heard that compared to pre-med, computer science is a lot easier. I'm still struggling to choose a major and I just wanted to lay out the pros and cons of each major.

college-major computer-science undergraduate
Thank you comment icon As far as I know, there is no such thing as a "pre med" major. You can BE pre-med, but you major in something like biology or chem. Technically, you can major in anything and still be pre-med - even Computer science. Fred Rosenberger
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david’s Answer

My career was spent with computers and, when an error occurs, one just backs up and does it again. Medicine doesn't have that option. Although I was never a medical student, my guess is that it is more challenging, since the possible consequences of mistakes is higher. BUT, I encourage you to go with your passion. If it's medicine, then you'll get through it. All the best to you.
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Fred’s Answer

The answer is "it depends on you".

I found all my CS classes to be pretty easy, but almost failed biology. My sister breezed through bio, but never took a CS class in her life. She is terrible with computers, but is an excellent doctor.

What you enjoy doing makes a huge difference. If you like CS, it'll be easier than if you hate it, and same for bio. And remember, the thing you major is is (probably) related to what you will do the rest of your life, so choose something you enjoy.

Side note: There is no such thing as a "pre-med" major. You can be pre-med, but your major will (most likely) be something like biology or anatomy.
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Jeff’s Answer

Hi Sami,

Good question!

My answer will be a bit vague because it's difficult, if not impossible, to answer on a general level. Each university has different requirements, and expectations for either program. So it depends on the university, the programs, the classes even the professors. Different professors have different expectations for each class. In my experience, a LONG time ago, I attended University of Pittsburgh. I was taking the pre-med track unofficially. I was in biology. Pitt has a great medical school so it's pre-med program was there to weed out all but the best candidates. It was incredibly difficult. I took an intro computer class and loved it! I switched and ended up with a BS in computer science. However, the CS program was also extremely difficult. The difference was that I found my passion!

So, David is spot on! Find your passion and head down that route. In the beginning, you should take intro classes that can apply to either degree. You don't have ro declare a major until your junior year so you can explore lots of options.

If you have the opportunity, talk to students and professors in both programs at the universities you are interested in. You might get a feel for expectations.

One more thing I will mention is that, with a CS or related degree, there are opportunities in the bio-med field so you might be able to work in both of your areas!

Best of luck!

Jeff recommends the following next steps:

Talk to students and professors in both programs
Take classes that apply to both areas
Decide on your true passion
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