About this major
Computer Science delves into the theory, development, and application of software and systems. Students learn programming, algorithms, data structures, and the principles of hardware design to solve complex problems.
Student Experience
Academic Balance
USC offers a comprehensive CS curriculum with strong core coverage (algorithms, systems, AI, machine learning, databases) and numerous electives across areas like machine learning (CS 467), cybersecurity, data science, and robotics (CS 499).
I think Purdue's computer science program has one fatal flaw. The intro to computer science class is basically useless. Data structures and algorithms is then only available for sophomores. I think it should be available in freshman year.
While difficult, studying Computer Science is very rewarding and satisfying. In my experience, the hardest experiences in university have all been related to my CS coursework, but at the same time, I have found the most enjoyment working on hard problems, collaborating with others, and building projects.
I think one of the scariest expectations about Computer Science comes from the toxic competitiveness that arises due to over saturation of the major but CS at UCLA or any school with a sense of community does a good job of having a student body that supports you in both classes and job recruitment.
Very lecture-heavy, non-collaborative, theoretical curriculum at my school.
Very lecture-heavy, non-collaborative, theoretical curriculum at my school.
In order to differentiate yourself try to find your specialty and go hard in it, do not try to be a generalist/jack of all trades
feels pretty theoretical but i feel like ive learned a lot of useful concepts that i've been able to apply in projects, in work, and in interviews
It is an easy major if you just do classes. You should focus on developing a niche and get really good at something technical.
originally i was feeling very out of place because everyone here is so smart. as i continued i realized that most of it is a facade and you just need to find your thing you are good at.
It’s pretty math heavy, I’d recommend doing some logic/math prep in high school
If you want to do a double major or minor plan it ahead and start earlier in your academic career.
I wish AI was not apart of my education, however I’ve learned the best I could with the tools I’ve had for the 4 years I was in college. I really enjoyed the community within my school of computer science clubs and events. While I had descent grades, I wish I could have spent more time with friends
I feel that there's a good range of people within cs with varying levels of prior programming experience - it can feel intimidating sometimes, but I'm not the only one with not much experience before coming here.
homework takes a long time and what you learn feels pretty theoretical
Showing 100 of 268 reviews
