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What kind of science classes should I take if I plan to major in Computer Science besides Physics?
Which ones did you take if you took Computer Science.
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11 answers
Updated
Doc’s Answer
There are a few things you can do to prepare for a major in computer science:
1️⃣ Study math and science in high school
Computer science is a field that requires strong math and science skills. If you're interested in computer science, take challenging math and science courses in high school. These courses give you a good foundation for the rigours of a computer science major.
2️⃣ Decide which degree you want to pursue
There are various degrees you can pursue in computer science, such as a Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Each degree has different requirements, so it's essential to decide which one is right for you. If you're not sure, you can always speak with a guidance counsellor or professor for advice.
3️⃣ Develop computer science skills. If you want to major in computer science, it's good to develop your computer science skills before you start college. There are many resources available, such as online courses, coding boot camps, and books. You can also join a club or take part in competitions to get more experience.
4️⃣ Take math courses. Math is a fundamental requirement for computer science. If your high school doesn't offer any math courses, you can consider taking some at a local community college or online. There are a variety of math courses you can take, such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. These courses can give you the mathematical foundation for a computer science major.
5️⃣ Learn skills like coding and programming
Coding and programming are important skills for computer science majors. If you're not familiar with these concepts, you can learn them through books, online courses, or coding boot camps. You can also learn quality coding practices, such as unit testing and code reviews. These skills can help you succeed in your computer science courses and eventually your career.
6️⃣ Seek internships and research opportunities. If you want to gain experience in computer science, you can find internships and research opportunities in college. These opportunities allow you to work on real-world projects and learn from experienced professionals. You can also build your network and make connections that can benefit you after graduation.
1️⃣ Study math and science in high school
Computer science is a field that requires strong math and science skills. If you're interested in computer science, take challenging math and science courses in high school. These courses give you a good foundation for the rigours of a computer science major.
2️⃣ Decide which degree you want to pursue
There are various degrees you can pursue in computer science, such as a Bachelor of Science (BS), Master of Science (MS), or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Each degree has different requirements, so it's essential to decide which one is right for you. If you're not sure, you can always speak with a guidance counsellor or professor for advice.
3️⃣ Develop computer science skills. If you want to major in computer science, it's good to develop your computer science skills before you start college. There are many resources available, such as online courses, coding boot camps, and books. You can also join a club or take part in competitions to get more experience.
4️⃣ Take math courses. Math is a fundamental requirement for computer science. If your high school doesn't offer any math courses, you can consider taking some at a local community college or online. There are a variety of math courses you can take, such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. These courses can give you the mathematical foundation for a computer science major.
5️⃣ Learn skills like coding and programming
Coding and programming are important skills for computer science majors. If you're not familiar with these concepts, you can learn them through books, online courses, or coding boot camps. You can also learn quality coding practices, such as unit testing and code reviews. These skills can help you succeed in your computer science courses and eventually your career.
6️⃣ Seek internships and research opportunities. If you want to gain experience in computer science, you can find internships and research opportunities in college. These opportunities allow you to work on real-world projects and learn from experienced professionals. You can also build your network and make connections that can benefit you after graduation.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hey Brendan,
Typically for Computer science you will have to take various math courses like calculus and statistics. So I would suggest taking those especially the AP or dual enrollment versions since they will likely help you get acclimated to the rigor that can come with college coursework. Another is to see if your school offers any Computer science classes such as AP computer science or other intro to programming classes.
Typically for Computer science you will have to take various math courses like calculus and statistics. So I would suggest taking those especially the AP or dual enrollment versions since they will likely help you get acclimated to the rigor that can come with college coursework. Another is to see if your school offers any Computer science classes such as AP computer science or other intro to programming classes.
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
If you're planning to major in Computer Science, there are additional courses that can complement your studies beyond just Physics. Here's a list of relevant courses:
1. Mathematics:
Discrete Mathematics: Essential for algorithms, logic, and graph theory.
Linear Algebra: Key for machine learning, computer graphics, and data science.
Calculus: Foundational for optimization, machine learning, and algorithms.
Statistics: Crucial for data science, AI, and making informed decisions from data.
2. Other relevant courses:
Biology: useful for bioinformatics and computational biology.
Neuroscience: Beneficial for understanding AI and cognitive computing.
Mathematical Biology: Combines biology and mathematics for computational modeling.
In conclusion, you should take courses that improve your logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, and be good at Mathematics.
If you need further detail, don`t hesitate to ask me! Good Luck!
1. Mathematics:
Discrete Mathematics: Essential for algorithms, logic, and graph theory.
Linear Algebra: Key for machine learning, computer graphics, and data science.
Calculus: Foundational for optimization, machine learning, and algorithms.
Statistics: Crucial for data science, AI, and making informed decisions from data.
2. Other relevant courses:
Biology: useful for bioinformatics and computational biology.
Neuroscience: Beneficial for understanding AI and cognitive computing.
Mathematical Biology: Combines biology and mathematics for computational modeling.
In conclusion, you should take courses that improve your logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, and be good at Mathematics.
If you need further detail, don`t hesitate to ask me! Good Luck!
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Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Brendan!
It's great that you're planning ahead for your Computer Science (CS) major! Besides physics, here are some science classes that can be beneficial for a CS student:
Recommended Science Classes:
1. Mathematics:
- Calculus: A strong foundation in calculus is essential, as it's often required for more advanced CS courses.
- Linear Algebra: Useful for understanding algorithms, computer graphics, and machine learning.
- Discrete Mathematics: Fundamental for computer science, covering topics like logic, set theory, and combinatorics.
2. Chemistry: Provides a good understanding of scientific principles and analytical skills, although it’s not directly tied to CS.
3. Biology: If you have an interest in fields like bioinformatics or computational biology, a background in biology can be very beneficial.
4. Statistics: Critical for data science, machine learning, and understanding algorithms that involve data analysis.
5. Earth Science or Environmental Science: While not directly related to CS, these courses can provide a broader scientific perspective and enhance critical thinking skills.
Courses I Would Take if I were to study CS:
If I were studying Computer Science, I’d focus on:
- Mathematics: Particularly Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics.
- Statistics: To support data science and machine learning interests.
- Physics: Essential for understanding the physical principles behind computing hardware.
- Chemistry: To develop a broad scientific knowledge base and analytical skills.
- Biology: Depending on interests in interdisciplinary fields like bioinformatics.
Additionally, some interdisciplinary courses like Computational Science or Scientific Computing can be highly valuable, as they apply computing principles to solve scientific problems.
Extra Tips:
- AP Courses: If available, take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry. They can provide a strong foundation and potentially earn you college credits.
- Electives: Consider electives related to your interests, such as Robotics, Engineering, or any specialized computing courses.
Ultimately, the specific courses you take will depend on your interests and the curriculum offered at your school. Having a diverse science background will give you a well-rounded education and prepare you for various challenges in the CS field.
Best wishes!
It's great that you're planning ahead for your Computer Science (CS) major! Besides physics, here are some science classes that can be beneficial for a CS student:
Recommended Science Classes:
1. Mathematics:
- Calculus: A strong foundation in calculus is essential, as it's often required for more advanced CS courses.
- Linear Algebra: Useful for understanding algorithms, computer graphics, and machine learning.
- Discrete Mathematics: Fundamental for computer science, covering topics like logic, set theory, and combinatorics.
2. Chemistry: Provides a good understanding of scientific principles and analytical skills, although it’s not directly tied to CS.
3. Biology: If you have an interest in fields like bioinformatics or computational biology, a background in biology can be very beneficial.
4. Statistics: Critical for data science, machine learning, and understanding algorithms that involve data analysis.
5. Earth Science or Environmental Science: While not directly related to CS, these courses can provide a broader scientific perspective and enhance critical thinking skills.
Courses I Would Take if I were to study CS:
If I were studying Computer Science, I’d focus on:
- Mathematics: Particularly Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Discrete Mathematics.
- Statistics: To support data science and machine learning interests.
- Physics: Essential for understanding the physical principles behind computing hardware.
- Chemistry: To develop a broad scientific knowledge base and analytical skills.
- Biology: Depending on interests in interdisciplinary fields like bioinformatics.
Additionally, some interdisciplinary courses like Computational Science or Scientific Computing can be highly valuable, as they apply computing principles to solve scientific problems.
Extra Tips:
- AP Courses: If available, take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like Calculus, Physics, and Chemistry. They can provide a strong foundation and potentially earn you college credits.
- Electives: Consider electives related to your interests, such as Robotics, Engineering, or any specialized computing courses.
Ultimately, the specific courses you take will depend on your interests and the curriculum offered at your school. Having a diverse science background will give you a well-rounded education and prepare you for various challenges in the CS field.
Best wishes!
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Michele’s Answer
If you are in high school, see if there are any computer science classes that you can take. Other classes will depend on what you want to do with computer science. Often, people take math classes. However, you might take biology and even art classes.
Check the colleges where you wish to apply and see what classes they require. If AP classes are an option for you, see if there are any AP classes that could help you skip early required courses in college.
Check the colleges where you wish to apply and see what classes they require. If AP classes are an option for you, see if there are any AP classes that could help you skip early required courses in college.
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Jeff’s Answer
I would highly recommend many types of Mathematics (Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations) and also a course on Logic, which teaches you to think logically, which is essential for smart coding.
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Dr’s Answer
Brendan, first of all, props to you for planning ahead! If computer science is your goal, you'll want to assemble your science squad like a pro. Here's the lineup:
1. Math – This is your MVP. Calculus, algebra, and probability are your bread and butter. Think of math as the coding language of the universe. Skip it, and your computer might just laugh at you in binary.
2. Physics – Physics helps you understand how computers physically work—like why your CPU doesn’t burst into flames every time you open 20 Chrome tabs. Bonus: it makes you sound smart when you casually talk about quantum computing.
3. Chemistry (optional) – Not strictly necessary, but if you want to dive into material sciences for hardware, it’s good to know why your laptop doesn’t dissolve in water (though maybe keep it away from coffee).
4. Computer Science/Programming – If your school offers it, grab it! Otherwise, dive into online courses. It’s like getting a head start before the marathon.
If I had taken computer science (sadly, I didn’t), I imagine it’d involve looking cool while typing random code on a black screen like I’m hacking the Pentagon. But my friend did, and trust me, he swears by math and physics as the ultimate duo for surviving the degree.
Pro tip: add coffee to your toolkit. You'll need it when you're debugging code at 3 a.m. Good luck, future coding wizard—may your syntax always be error-free!
1. Math – This is your MVP. Calculus, algebra, and probability are your bread and butter. Think of math as the coding language of the universe. Skip it, and your computer might just laugh at you in binary.
2. Physics – Physics helps you understand how computers physically work—like why your CPU doesn’t burst into flames every time you open 20 Chrome tabs. Bonus: it makes you sound smart when you casually talk about quantum computing.
3. Chemistry (optional) – Not strictly necessary, but if you want to dive into material sciences for hardware, it’s good to know why your laptop doesn’t dissolve in water (though maybe keep it away from coffee).
4. Computer Science/Programming – If your school offers it, grab it! Otherwise, dive into online courses. It’s like getting a head start before the marathon.
If I had taken computer science (sadly, I didn’t), I imagine it’d involve looking cool while typing random code on a black screen like I’m hacking the Pentagon. But my friend did, and trust me, he swears by math and physics as the ultimate duo for surviving the degree.
Pro tip: add coffee to your toolkit. You'll need it when you're debugging code at 3 a.m. Good luck, future coding wizard—may your syntax always be error-free!
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Toni’s Answer
If you have a slight idea of what you would like to do post-graduation, I would take courses in that general path. Taking courses that are in alignment will enhance your knowledge and earn you the experience to eventually land an internship in near-term. If you do not know what you would like to do long-term with your CS degree, do not sweat it. Generally speaking, I would take programming courses (JS, Python, GO, TypeScript, etc.,), statistics (Fundamentals. Multi-variate Regression, etc) and if you have an elective take marketing/sales. Marketing/Sales are fundamental skills that are key.
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Sneha’s Answer
Hey Brendan! If you're planning to major in Computer Science, in addition to Physics, it's great to consider taking classes in Mathematics, particularly calculus and discrete math, as these are foundational to understanding algorithms and computer systems. Courses in statistics can also be beneficial, especially if you're interested in data science or machine learning. If you have the opportunity, classes in chemistry or biology can provide a broader scientific perspective and might be useful if you ever venture into fields like bioinformatics. Personally, I found that taking these classes helped me develop a well-rounded approach to problem-solving in computer science. Good luck!
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Akshay’s Answer
Hi Brendan,
It's great that you are already taking physics.
If you plan to major in Computer Science, besides Physics, you can consider taking the following additional science classes:
1. Chemistry: Offers foundational knowledge for fields like computational chemistry and materials science.
2. Biology: Useful for bioinformatics and machine learning applications in life sciences.
3. Astronomy: Applies physics and advanced mathematics, relevant for computational modeling.
Additionally, emphasize strong math skills by taking Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Probability, as these are critical for computer science applications.
If your school offers a computer science course or if you can attend one at a local junior college, that would be a boost as well.
Also don't forget to check out free online courses in Computer Science (MIT OpenCourseWare, Khan Academy, Coursera, etc)
Hope this helps and wishing you lots of success in CS!
It's great that you are already taking physics.
If you plan to major in Computer Science, besides Physics, you can consider taking the following additional science classes:
1. Chemistry: Offers foundational knowledge for fields like computational chemistry and materials science.
2. Biology: Useful for bioinformatics and machine learning applications in life sciences.
3. Astronomy: Applies physics and advanced mathematics, relevant for computational modeling.
Additionally, emphasize strong math skills by taking Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Probability, as these are critical for computer science applications.
If your school offers a computer science course or if you can attend one at a local junior college, that would be a boost as well.
Also don't forget to check out free online courses in Computer Science (MIT OpenCourseWare, Khan Academy, Coursera, etc)
Hope this helps and wishing you lots of success in CS!
Updated
Nausheen’s Answer
Here are a general list of classes you might consider, depending on what's available at your school:
Introduction to Computer Science – this is typically a beginner-level class that covers the basics of programming, algorithms, and problem-solving. You might learn languages like Python or Java, as well as foundational concepts in software development
Computer Science Principles - this class typically covers the fundamental principles of computing, including data structures, algorithms, the internet, cybersecurity, and the impacts of computing on society. It's often offered as an AP course, so you can potentially earn college credit.
Strong math skills are crucial in computer science, especially when dealing with algorithms, data structures, and logic. You should try to take as much math as possible, especially Calculus, as it helps with topics like computational geometry and machine learning.
Web development and learning how to build websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is also a good way to get into programming, along with user experience (UX).
Introduction to Computer Science – this is typically a beginner-level class that covers the basics of programming, algorithms, and problem-solving. You might learn languages like Python or Java, as well as foundational concepts in software development
Computer Science Principles - this class typically covers the fundamental principles of computing, including data structures, algorithms, the internet, cybersecurity, and the impacts of computing on society. It's often offered as an AP course, so you can potentially earn college credit.
Strong math skills are crucial in computer science, especially when dealing with algorithms, data structures, and logic. You should try to take as much math as possible, especially Calculus, as it helps with topics like computational geometry and machine learning.
Web development and learning how to build websites using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is also a good way to get into programming, along with user experience (UX).