Computer Science

“Overall, I think Computer Science is a great fit if you're aiming for a high‑paying career. But what you learn in school alone — theory, algorithms, and systems — isn’t enough for today's market. Employers expect practical coding skills from day one. That’s why CS majors must be proactive—building side projects, mastering version control and DevOps tools, and studying new languages and frameworks beyond coursework.”

“shit school with trash cs program, fake rich kids pretending to have learned sth. of course with high pressure tho”

“- In my observation, the difficulties of CS courses in UIUC could be reached at least TOP 10 throughout all colleges in the US. These courses are designed to those who are proficient in CS basis. So, be hard-working, be confident! - The elementary-level CS courses in UIUC are usually difficult and project-based, since they also work on filtering the candidates who can transfer to CS-related majors. Yet, these courses will be much easier in 400-levels. So don't worry about any of your graduation problems - Just roll on. - Please think about your specific future directions after graduation. Most people like to choose one of the following: becoming a software engineer, finding for a PhD in AI/Algorithms/Discrete Math (aka Theoretical CS)/etc., or doing some Quant Finance if he/she is also strong in math. Please find the relative summer research programs or internships starting from your Freshman year. Once you get a job, you don’t need to worry about money (theoretically)!”

“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).”

“Being a CS major has its ups and downs. The impostor syndrome is crazy when everyone is so cracked and good luck trying to get into clubs. The ratio in class is also horrible. But if you manage to land a job it will be a very lucrative career.”

“CS at USC has been pretty good so far. I have been able to learn more about the behind the scenes of computers and programming in C++. The clases are very theoretical so I hope to learn more projects and applications soonZ”

“I’m specifically a Computer Science Games major, so I have more projects and less math, which could be why I find it more manageable. The projects are more time-demanding, and there are especially a lot more group projects.”

“The major is a lot of fun, and you learn a lot of interesting stuff. Good fit if you like problem solving!”

“I think that computer science is a very high earning field but the bar of entry is getting progressively higher which makes it harder to break in but also makes it easier once you do.”

“Computer science is one of the most popular majors with high learning potential, but the workload is also higher than most majors.”

“As a USC CS student, I like how the program balances theory and real projects. The classes are fast paced, but they feel useful, and many courses connect to what companies use in practice. It is also easy to find a lab, a team, or a project group if you want research or hands on work. Career support is a big plus. There are many job events, info sessions, and alumni chats, so you can learn how hiring works and get referrals. In Los Angeles, there are many startups and tech teams, and USC also has strong links to big companies. Many students land internships during the school year or in summer, then turn them into full time offers. Overall, USC CS feels busy and competitive, but the resources and the network make the effort worth it.”

“If you are someone who is genuinely curious about how things work, enjoys logical puzzles, and is self-motivated to tackle difficult problems, CS is a fantastic choice. The skills you gain—not just coding in Python or Java, but the ability to think algorithmically and systematically—are perhaps the most valuable of any degree in the modern era. My biggest advice for new majors: Don't just focus on grades. Build things. Personal projects, open-source contributions, and internships are where the real-world skills and portfolio are developed.”

“Some of the courses are a bit outdated. Still a number of required courses are traditional development-oriented.”

“Studying Computer Science is both challenging and rewarding. The coursework builds a strong foundation in programming, algorithms, and systems, while advanced electives let you explore areas like AI, algorithms, and software engineering. It’s fast paced and problem solving based, but professors and peers I met during my undergrad are very supportive. You’ll gain both theoretical depth and practical coding experience by studying CS.”

“Good major, but increasingly competitive. Also why does this review requires at least 100 characters”