Dual Honours CS/Maths vs Engineering

[CelNostos]

Hey everyone,

I am based in the UK and am deliberating whether I should go for a dual honours CS/Maths degree or jump for an Engineering one. I'm aware that in a dual honours while you do more than half of each degree, at the later stages some of the modules are picked so that they go together very well, but some stuff is discarded, like half of the 3rd year Maths and CS modules, and the same in 4th year. I'm just wondering if that is a bad thing or not. I do like both subjects, which is why I choose it as a double in the first place. I just had at first assumed it was like the US system. Double major = double degree (I would have preferred this), and I figured I wouldn't be 'missing out' some important stuff from both sides. However, is a joint degree worthwhile or will it just mean that I won't be able to call myself an expert in either field? Is a dual honours less or more respected than a single honours?

Finally, my other choice was engineering, but alas, I am not too sure on that subject either. I think I'd find it less interesting that pure maths and computers, mainly because so far I've always found physics related maths kind of boring. I'm sure that opinion will probably change in Uni though. It's just that I'm thinking of the future and what would be best. My hope is to eventually move to Canada, and I'm not sure how the job market is there for engineers. I know where I am based right now (Scotland) I'd probably end up working in the oil industry. I'm not too sure if I'd be happy with that or not.

Any advice/experience would be most welcome, and if there's anything I didn't elaborate enough on, please mention so. I kind of wrote this in a hurry.

Thanks.

 

[micromass]

First of all, doing 4 years of math won't make you an expert in the field. At all.

I feel that an undergraduate degree in math serves two purposes:
1) Learning how to do proofs and how to think abstractly.
2) Getting acquainted with a variety of different mathematics.

I think that your program will serve that purpose well.

On the other hand, if your goal is to do a PhD in mathematics, then the more math you know the better.

 

[CelNostos]

Hi,

Sorry for the misuse of that term, then. My apologies.

If it makes it easier, I can show you the calendars for the years:

Straight up Maths:
http://www.abdn.ac.uk/registry/calendar/requirements/04G10070.doc

Straight up CS:
http://www.abdn.ac.uk/registry/calendar/requirements/04G50070.doc

CS & Maths:
http://www.abdn.ac.uk/registry/calendar/requirements/04GGMC70.doc

As towards my future goals... I'm not entirely sure yet.

 

[micromass]

Hmm, if you do dual CS+math, then you will be missing galois theory, topology and measure theory. These are quite fundamental courses, so you will have to self-study them as you need them (which shouldn't be a problem if you completed the major).

 

[Matrix0]

I can offer some insight into the differences between a dual honours CS/Maths degree and an Engineering degree. Both paths have their own unique benefits and it ultimately depends on your personal interests and career goals.

A dual honours degree in CS/Maths allows you to have a strong foundation in both computer science and mathematics, which are highly sought after skills in many industries. You will have a well-rounded knowledge base and be able to apply both disciplines in various fields such as data analysis, programming, and research. However, as you mentioned, you may not have the opportunity to delve as deeply into each subject compared to a single honours degree. This could potentially limit your expertise in one specific area, but it also allows for a broader range of job opportunities.

On the other hand, an Engineering degree allows you to specialize in a specific field, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. You will have a more focused and in-depth understanding of your chosen discipline, and this may be more appealing to certain employers. However, it may also limit your job options to that specific field.

In terms of job market and respect, both dual honours and Engineering degrees are highly valued and respected in the workforce. It ultimately depends on the specific industry and job you are applying for.

As for your concerns about the job market in Canada, it is always a good idea to do some research and see what industries and companies are thriving in the area you are interested in. You can also reach out to professionals in those fields to get a better understanding of the job market and potential opportunities.

Overall, my advice would be to choose the path that aligns with your interests and career goals. Both options have their own advantages and it is important to choose a degree that you are passionate about and will enjoy studying. Good luck with your decision!