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Is it more difficult to get into a computer science major or a business major?
I am a senior in high school and I currently don't know what to major in I'm still undecided but I'm particularly interested in business and computer science or technology. I want to know if one is more difficult than the other to work towards?
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39 answers
Updated
Theophilus’s Answer
Hi Kimberly!
Here’s the truth: neither major is “easier” or “harder” by default. What matters is your interest, your commitment, your energy, and what excites you when you sit down to learn.
If you’re leaning toward Computer Science, you might face more technical requirements (like math, logic, coding), and some schools may have more competitive admissions due to limited capacity. It’s a field that trains you to think like a problem-solver, a builder, and an innovator. If you love patterns, tech, and creating things that work behind the scenes, it could be a great fit.
If you’re looking at Business, it’s just as rigorous but in a different way. It challenges how you think about people, strategy, money, leadership, and impact. It’s perfect for those who enjoy working with others, solving real-world business problems, and learning how organizations grow, You don’t need to choose right now. In fact, many people combine both. You can major in Business and minor in Computer Science, or major in one and take electives in the other. That’s the beauty of college.
So instead of asking, “Which is harder?” try asking:
Which one excites me more when I imagine my future?
Which problems do I want to wake up and solve every day?
You’re ahead because you’re asking the right questions. The right major is the one that helps you build the future you want. Stay curious. Keep exploring. And don’t be afraid to mix both because you can absolutely do that.
But here is the best advice: GO AND EXPLORE FIRST. Plans can change and that's very okay. You might end up falling in love with a different major.
Here’s the truth: neither major is “easier” or “harder” by default. What matters is your interest, your commitment, your energy, and what excites you when you sit down to learn.
If you’re leaning toward Computer Science, you might face more technical requirements (like math, logic, coding), and some schools may have more competitive admissions due to limited capacity. It’s a field that trains you to think like a problem-solver, a builder, and an innovator. If you love patterns, tech, and creating things that work behind the scenes, it could be a great fit.
If you’re looking at Business, it’s just as rigorous but in a different way. It challenges how you think about people, strategy, money, leadership, and impact. It’s perfect for those who enjoy working with others, solving real-world business problems, and learning how organizations grow, You don’t need to choose right now. In fact, many people combine both. You can major in Business and minor in Computer Science, or major in one and take electives in the other. That’s the beauty of college.
So instead of asking, “Which is harder?” try asking:
Which one excites me more when I imagine my future?
Which problems do I want to wake up and solve every day?
You’re ahead because you’re asking the right questions. The right major is the one that helps you build the future you want. Stay curious. Keep exploring. And don’t be afraid to mix both because you can absolutely do that.
But here is the best advice: GO AND EXPLORE FIRST. Plans can change and that's very okay. You might end up falling in love with a different major.
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Karin’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
It doesn't really matter which one is more difficult or more difficult to get into. It matters what you are interested in, what you enjoy working on and what you have the talent for. Your two choices are not only different subjects, but different types of thinking and learning, different job opportunities, different work environments etc. You don't want to spend your working life doing something that you don't enjoy.
If you want to get an idea what it's like to study one or the other, MIT OpenCourseWare is a great resource to try out some foundation courses. If you want to know what it's like to work in one or the other field, look for opportunities to job shadow, for internships and summer programs. Find out what suits you best.
If you are still interested in both, you can combine them. You can do a major/minor combination or take courses as your electives. Some universities, e.g. University of Southern California or UC Riverside or CSU Long Beach, also have combined programs. I left some links for you below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://ocw.mit.edu/
https://catalogue.usc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=20&poid=28674&returnto=8371
https://www1.cs.ucr.edu/programs/undergraduate/computer-science-business-applications
http://catalog.csulb.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=11&poid=5903
It doesn't really matter which one is more difficult or more difficult to get into. It matters what you are interested in, what you enjoy working on and what you have the talent for. Your two choices are not only different subjects, but different types of thinking and learning, different job opportunities, different work environments etc. You don't want to spend your working life doing something that you don't enjoy.
If you want to get an idea what it's like to study one or the other, MIT OpenCourseWare is a great resource to try out some foundation courses. If you want to know what it's like to work in one or the other field, look for opportunities to job shadow, for internships and summer programs. Find out what suits you best.
If you are still interested in both, you can combine them. You can do a major/minor combination or take courses as your electives. Some universities, e.g. University of Southern California or UC Riverside or CSU Long Beach, also have combined programs. I left some links for you below.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
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Sharadha’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
As per my knowledge computer science is usually harder to get into and more academically challenging than business due to high demand, technical coursework, and limited program spots. CS involves programming and math, while business focuses more on management, marketing, and finance. CS often leads to higher starting salaries, but both can lead to great careers—especially in tech. If you’re undecided, try both early in college and consider a double major or minor.
As per my knowledge computer science is usually harder to get into and more academically challenging than business due to high demand, technical coursework, and limited program spots. CS involves programming and math, while business focuses more on management, marketing, and finance. CS often leads to higher starting salaries, but both can lead to great careers—especially in tech. If you’re undecided, try both early in college and consider a double major or minor.
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Pranav’s Answer
Very much depends on the school and their programs rankings. I will say computer science is a harder major in school as it is a lot more technical than business. If you are unsure I would try to go to a school where both programs are ranked good and then make a decision from there. You could always try to do a business/data analytics major gets you exposure to aspects on both sides. Double majoring could also be something you would be interested in depending on what type of career you want.
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Dhiyanji’s Answer
I would suggest exploring your interests and keep yourself open so that you can choose which area to specialize in. I can speak to accounting/finance as a career choice: Pros: High demand, Job Security, continuous growth, Help with understanding the economics of a business so in the future if you plan on starting your own business, it will help you from a financial perspective. Cons: Extended working hours during busy Season, specialization may lead to not being able to pivot to other career opportunities at later stages in your career.
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Savyata’s Answer
Great question! Both Computer Science and Business are popular majors, but **Computer Science is often more competitive to get into**, especially at top universities. This is because there’s a high demand for CS programs and limited spots, so the admissions standards can be higher.
Business majors can also be competitive, but usually not to the same extent as CS. Ultimately, choose the major that excites you most—both fields offer great career opportunities! If you’re undecided, some schools let you start as “undeclared” and explore both areas before committing. Good luck—you’re asking all the right questions! 🚀
Business majors can also be competitive, but usually not to the same extent as CS. Ultimately, choose the major that excites you most—both fields offer great career opportunities! If you’re undecided, some schools let you start as “undeclared” and explore both areas before committing. Good luck—you’re asking all the right questions! 🚀
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Annika’s Answer
Generally, computer science is more competitive, especially at top schools, because of limited spots and high demand. But it depends on the university! But overall, both fields are excellent!
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Chaitanya’s Answer
No matter which major you choose, most of them need good grades and test scores. Both areas offer great opportunities, and with hard work and determination, you will find success.
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Johnson’s Answer
Choosing between a computer science major and a business major ultimately depends on your strengths, interests, and career aspirations, but both can be rewarding paths with unique challenges. Generally, computer science programs are more technical and rigorous, requiring strong problem-solving and analytical skills, while business majors focus more on strategy, management, and financial principles. If you enjoy coding, technology, and innovation, computer science may be more appealing, but if leadership, entrepreneurship, and corporate dynamics excite you, business could be the right fit. Rather than focusing solely on difficulty, consider what aligns best with your long-term goals and passion—success often comes from pursuing what genuinely interests you!
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Jason’s Answer
Hey Kimberly,
Easier or harder will be subjective based on the strengths and weaknesses of the individual. Computer science will be more math heavy and will require higher level maths as a part of getting the degree on top of learning coding languages and such. some hard skills which can be challenging concepts for many to grasp. Business is a bit different as you will take some higher maths like calculus and statistics but fewer than CS. You will however have finance and accounting courses which are their own type of challenge both mathematically and conceptually. As a business major a big part of my experience as well was group projects and developing soft skills and team work that are some really hard skills for some to learn. So I won't say one is harder than the other although if you ask most people they will say that CS is surely harder than business but it really depends on the individual.
I'll add that both are great options and ideally if you can major in one and minor in the other I personally think that is the best combination of major/minor of any degree. I would probably do CS major and business minor knowing what I know now in my career. Best of luck to you on your journey!
Easier or harder will be subjective based on the strengths and weaknesses of the individual. Computer science will be more math heavy and will require higher level maths as a part of getting the degree on top of learning coding languages and such. some hard skills which can be challenging concepts for many to grasp. Business is a bit different as you will take some higher maths like calculus and statistics but fewer than CS. You will however have finance and accounting courses which are their own type of challenge both mathematically and conceptually. As a business major a big part of my experience as well was group projects and developing soft skills and team work that are some really hard skills for some to learn. So I won't say one is harder than the other although if you ask most people they will say that CS is surely harder than business but it really depends on the individual.
I'll add that both are great options and ideally if you can major in one and minor in the other I personally think that is the best combination of major/minor of any degree. I would probably do CS major and business minor knowing what I know now in my career. Best of luck to you on your journey!
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haytam’s Answer
Getting into computer science (CS) is usually harder than business because of higher demand, stricter math/coding expectations, and limited spots. Business majors are often less competitive (except at top schools ).
CS is academically tougher(math, coding), while business focuses more on soft skills (communication, networking).
Pick CS if you love tech & problem-solving; choose business if you prefer leadership & flexibility.If unsure, consider a mix (e.g., CS + business minor, or Information Systems).
CS is academically tougher(math, coding), while business focuses more on soft skills (communication, networking).
haytam recommends the following next steps:
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Andrew’s Answer
Hi Kimberly, both majors are popular and competitive, but they focus on different skills. Computer Science involves a lot of math and technical analysis, while Business needs strong social and personal skills. I suggest picking the major that interests you most and considering your strengths when making your decision.
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Aparna’s Answer
Hi Kimberly! Choosing between computer science and business can be tricky, but it's an exciting decision. Both fields need similar skills, but you'll use them differently day-to-day.
Business covers a wide range of areas, including both technical and non-technical fields. In college, I found non-technical courses like accounting and marketing easier, but they still help you build important communication and presentation skills. These skills are crucial in any career and can really set you apart.
Computer science, on the other hand, dives deep into technical knowledge, requiring strong math and modeling skills. If you love tech, this path can be very rewarding and opens doors in many job fields. Even in business roles, a computer science background can be a big advantage, especially when working with engineers and developers.
Both degrees have their own benefits. Think about what excites you most and choose the path that matches your interests. Remember, you can always blend skills from both areas. Business majors can take technical courses, and computer science majors can join business clubs and take communication classes. Whatever you choose, you'll have plenty of opportunities to grow. Good luck!
Business covers a wide range of areas, including both technical and non-technical fields. In college, I found non-technical courses like accounting and marketing easier, but they still help you build important communication and presentation skills. These skills are crucial in any career and can really set you apart.
Computer science, on the other hand, dives deep into technical knowledge, requiring strong math and modeling skills. If you love tech, this path can be very rewarding and opens doors in many job fields. Even in business roles, a computer science background can be a big advantage, especially when working with engineers and developers.
Both degrees have their own benefits. Think about what excites you most and choose the path that matches your interests. Remember, you can always blend skills from both areas. Business majors can take technical courses, and computer science majors can join business clubs and take communication classes. Whatever you choose, you'll have plenty of opportunities to grow. Good luck!
Thank you so much, Aparna!
Kimberly
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Yashasvi’s Answer
The difficulty of getting into a computer science (CS) major versus a business major depends on the specific university and its admission policies, but here are some general trends:
1. Computer Science Major
• Highly Competitive: At many universities, CS is one of the most competitive majors due to high demand and limited spots.
• Selective Admissions: Some schools require a separate application or higher GPA for CS compared to other majors.
• Prerequisites: Strong math and science backgrounds are often expected.
2. Business Major
• Varies by School: Business programs can also be competitive, especially at top business schools, but they often have more spots available than CS.
• Broader Admissions: Business majors may have broader admission criteria, sometimes focusing on leadership, communication, and extracurriculars in addition to academics.
3. Key Differences
• STEM Demand: The tech industry’s rapid growth has made CS programs especially selective.
• Program Size: Business schools may admit larger cohorts, making acceptance rates sometimes higher than CS.
4. What to Expect
• At highly ranked universities, both majors can be competitive, but CS is often more difficult to get into due to the surge in interest and limited capacity.
• At less selective schools, the difference may be smaller.
1. Computer Science Major
• Highly Competitive: At many universities, CS is one of the most competitive majors due to high demand and limited spots.
• Selective Admissions: Some schools require a separate application or higher GPA for CS compared to other majors.
• Prerequisites: Strong math and science backgrounds are often expected.
2. Business Major
• Varies by School: Business programs can also be competitive, especially at top business schools, but they often have more spots available than CS.
• Broader Admissions: Business majors may have broader admission criteria, sometimes focusing on leadership, communication, and extracurriculars in addition to academics.
3. Key Differences
• STEM Demand: The tech industry’s rapid growth has made CS programs especially selective.
• Program Size: Business schools may admit larger cohorts, making acceptance rates sometimes higher than CS.
4. What to Expect
• At highly ranked universities, both majors can be competitive, but CS is often more difficult to get into due to the surge in interest and limited capacity.
• At less selective schools, the difference may be smaller.
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Vidhya’s Answer
Choosing between Computer Science and Business depends on what you like and what you're good at.
Computer Science is about using logic, solving problems, programming, and math. If you love creating things, working with technology, and tackling technical challenges, you might find this exciting and sometimes challenging.
Business focuses on communication, making decisions, marketing, finance, and understanding how companies operate.
Both fields require hard work and curiosity to succeed!
Computer Science is about using logic, solving problems, programming, and math. If you love creating things, working with technology, and tackling technical challenges, you might find this exciting and sometimes challenging.
Business focuses on communication, making decisions, marketing, finance, and understanding how companies operate.
Both fields require hard work and curiosity to succeed!
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Evan’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
With the details you've provided, we can't give a definite answer. It really depends on the school you are interested in, as each program may have different acceptance rates and available spots. In the future, you might need to research each college individually to get more specific information.
With the details you've provided, we can't give a definite answer. It really depends on the school you are interested in, as each program may have different acceptance rates and available spots. In the future, you might need to research each college individually to get more specific information.
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Muhab’s Answer
Getting into computer science can be tougher at some schools just because so many people want to do it, and there are usually fewer spots. You might need stronger grades, especially in math, or sometimes even a separate application. Business majors can also be competitive, but it really depends on the school (some are harder to get into than others). When it comes to classes, computer science usually means more math and coding, while business is more about things like marketing, finance, and working in groups. Both can be challenging, just in different ways.
If you’re not sure what to pick yet, that’s totally normal! Lots of students start college undecided or end up changing their major. It’s a good idea to take some intro classes in both areas to see what you like better. And if you’re interested in both, some schools let you combine them or do a double major. The most important thing is to find something you enjoy and that fits your strengths!
If you’re not sure what to pick yet, that’s totally normal! Lots of students start college undecided or end up changing their major. It’s a good idea to take some intro classes in both areas to see what you like better. And if you’re interested in both, some schools let you combine them or do a double major. The most important thing is to find something you enjoy and that fits your strengths!
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Zachary’s Answer
While it’s true that computer science majors can be more competitive to get into and may have a reputation for being challenging, this is because the field is in high demand and offers incredible opportunities—both in terms of exciting work and high salaries. If you’re interested in technology and enjoy problem-solving, majoring in computer science can open doors to some of the most innovative and impactful careers out there, from software development to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and beyond. Many students find the challenge rewarding, and with dedication and curiosity, you can absolutely succeed—even if you don’t have a strong background in math or coding yet, as most programs start with the basics. Plus, the skills you gain in computer science—like logical thinking, creativity, and resilience—are valuable in any industry. If you’re unsure, taking introductory courses in both business and computer science is a great way to explore your interests, and you might discover a passion for technology that leads to a fulfilling and well-paid career.
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DEVANG’s Answer
Hi there! It really depends on what you've studied before and what you're interested in. Both fields offer great career opportunities. To answer your question, getting into a business major is generally more challenging than a computer science major.
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Jay’s Answer
If you like the intersection between business and computer science I would explore a Management Information Systems major. Sometimes it is called Information Systems.
The program exposes you to the technical side of the software that is used to operate key functions in business (accounting, ERP systems, finance, marketing, supply chain etc.)
This is what I personally studied for my undergraduate degree.
You can choose to go the more IT technical route or remain more on the business side, the major offers tremendous flexibility in this key way.
Keep in mind that MIS focuses mainly on data work so the language focus is mainly Python, SQL, and R.
Furthermore, you can always double down later with a post-graduate degree in either computer science, data, or get an MBA. You should strongly consider getting work experience first though, especially if you are thinking about an MBA.
The program exposes you to the technical side of the software that is used to operate key functions in business (accounting, ERP systems, finance, marketing, supply chain etc.)
This is what I personally studied for my undergraduate degree.
You can choose to go the more IT technical route or remain more on the business side, the major offers tremendous flexibility in this key way.
Keep in mind that MIS focuses mainly on data work so the language focus is mainly Python, SQL, and R.
Furthermore, you can always double down later with a post-graduate degree in either computer science, data, or get an MBA. You should strongly consider getting work experience first though, especially if you are thinking about an MBA.
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Brian’s Answer
Those are great career options to consider. It is not a matter of which is harder but which of those would you be interested in even when you learn more about them. Your first couple of years of college is where you can take general education classes to get a better understanding of which major to pursue. You will have the opportunity to take a class in those two subjects if you choose. When learning something new that you are interested in you find that you can push through and try to figure out solutions. Right now the idea of those majors are interesting but learning more of both and talking with professionals will help you make a decision. But do not let progress of pursuing something you want because it is hard for some. Everyone has a different experience. Trust yourself and dont be afraid to take a chance on yourself. You will be great.
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Susan’s Answer
I think both options are rather equal (as well as good options), it truly depends on what school you apply to and their criteria. Some schools are more competitive in different degrees. For instance, getting into the Business School at certain universities require a minimum GPA, and then require another minimum GPA after year two in college to be "officially" in their Business School. That said, both are good options of a career, but for Business I would focus on Finance due to what I see in the market.
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Judy’s Answer
Trust your initial instincts when choosing a major—remember, you can always change it later. While working on your undergraduate classes, take advantage of internships to explore different fields and companies that align with your interests.
Spending four years at a university is a great experience, but it’s not the only path. If you’re unsure about where you want to go, consider starting at a community college and transferring to a university after two years. This approach often comes with fewer obstacles and can save you a significant amount of money.
One valuable piece of advice I received: when you graduate from a four-year university, your diploma won’t indicate that you spent two years at a community college. Your degree will be the same as someone who attended the university for all four years.
Spending four years at a university is a great experience, but it’s not the only path. If you’re unsure about where you want to go, consider starting at a community college and transferring to a university after two years. This approach often comes with fewer obstacles and can save you a significant amount of money.
One valuable piece of advice I received: when you graduate from a four-year university, your diploma won’t indicate that you spent two years at a community college. Your degree will be the same as someone who attended the university for all four years.
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Vaishnavi’s Answer
I am majored in both Computer Science and Business. I did my Bachelors in Computer Science and Masters in Business Administration. Pros of having both degree is that as a developer you will have system knowledge and in your career advancement, you would need some business knowledge to understand how a company works from higher level. It has definitely helped me. I hope it does for you too. Good luck
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Greg’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
Lots of good answers here, but just wanted to throw one other thing out there. You may have the opportunity to do some combination of both! Many schools offer dual-degree programs that allow you to double major. If that's not an option, you could definitely consider adding a minor or certificate in one area on top of your major. Your coursework might be more demanding, but if you're truly passionate about both areas, it would be worth it! Good luck!
Lots of good answers here, but just wanted to throw one other thing out there. You may have the opportunity to do some combination of both! Many schools offer dual-degree programs that allow you to double major. If that's not an option, you could definitely consider adding a minor or certificate in one area on top of your major. Your coursework might be more demanding, but if you're truly passionate about both areas, it would be worth it! Good luck!
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Veronica’s Answer
Good question, and it’s something a lot of students wonder about when they’re thinking about college. Honestly, the answer can depend on the specific school you’re looking at, because every college has its own admissions process and standards for different majors.
In general, computer science has become super popular in recent years, so at many schools, it can be more competitive to get into than business. Some universities have limited spots for computer science majors and look for strong math and science backgrounds, or even require you to apply directly to the program when you apply to the school. Business majors can also be competitive, especially at schools with well-known business programs, but sometimes they have a bit more flexibility or larger class sizes.
The best thing you can do is check out the admissions requirements for both majors at the colleges you’re interested in. If you’re not sure which one you want to pursue, that’s totally okay—lots of students start out undecided or even switch majors once they figure out what they really enjoy. The important thing is to explore your interests and keep an open mind as you go through the process. You’ve got time to figure it out, and asking questions like this is a great way to start!
In general, computer science has become super popular in recent years, so at many schools, it can be more competitive to get into than business. Some universities have limited spots for computer science majors and look for strong math and science backgrounds, or even require you to apply directly to the program when you apply to the school. Business majors can also be competitive, especially at schools with well-known business programs, but sometimes they have a bit more flexibility or larger class sizes.
The best thing you can do is check out the admissions requirements for both majors at the colleges you’re interested in. If you’re not sure which one you want to pursue, that’s totally okay—lots of students start out undecided or even switch majors once they figure out what they really enjoy. The important thing is to explore your interests and keep an open mind as you go through the process. You’ve got time to figure it out, and asking questions like this is a great way to start!
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Albert’s Answer
It will likely depend on the specific coursework you end up taking within either major that will inform how challenging one major may be over the other. Additionally, the majors continue to evolve and there may be classes that overlap from a technical skillset perspective.
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Christopher’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
I have two kids in college studying business. From what I've seen, getting into a computer science major can be tougher than a business major. Many universities have competitive computer science programs because they lead to specific IT jobs. These programs often need a strong background in math and science and can be challenging. On the other hand, a business major might offer more varied career options and useful skills like leadership and communication. In the end, it's important to choose a major that you enjoy and can see yourself building a career in!
I have two kids in college studying business. From what I've seen, getting into a computer science major can be tougher than a business major. Many universities have competitive computer science programs because they lead to specific IT jobs. These programs often need a strong background in math and science and can be challenging. On the other hand, a business major might offer more varied career options and useful skills like leadership and communication. In the end, it's important to choose a major that you enjoy and can see yourself building a career in!
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Sean’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
It is hard to say which will be "harder" for an individual as the type of material covered will be different in each major. Computer Science will be much more technical and focus on hard skills like coding, math, etc. A business degree will have some technical classes as well, but will have a lot more classes on things like management strategy and theory vs Computer Science.
Find schools you want to go to and look at the listed coursework for each major on their website
It is hard to say which will be "harder" for an individual as the type of material covered will be different in each major. Computer Science will be much more technical and focus on hard skills like coding, math, etc. A business degree will have some technical classes as well, but will have a lot more classes on things like management strategy and theory vs Computer Science.
Sean recommends the following next steps:
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Erik’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
As many have said, I believe that it tends to be interest dependent on the "hardness" of the courses. However, a lot of school related. Colleges with very reputable business programs then tend to get a lot of applications making it more competitive to enroll. The same may be true for Com Sci programs, and other schools may be split evenly. These numbers are usually public and pretty easy to find showing the acceptance percentage on a per program basis.
As many have said, I believe that it tends to be interest dependent on the "hardness" of the courses. However, a lot of school related. Colleges with very reputable business programs then tend to get a lot of applications making it more competitive to enroll. The same may be true for Com Sci programs, and other schools may be split evenly. These numbers are usually public and pretty easy to find showing the acceptance percentage on a per program basis.
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Mark’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
Each career path has its own pros and cons. You'll need to decide if you prefer a technical or management focus. Right after graduation, there aren't many business roles in tech, but you might find positions like scrum master or project manager. These roles have fewer openings and are generally less demanding than software engineering jobs. Keep in mind that finding a role in tech requires a lot of determination.
I recommend learning beyond what your school teaches. Software engineers earn well because they constantly learn in a fast-changing industry. In management, you won't need to learn as many technical tools or languages, but being good with people is key. You'll need strong listening and communication skills, much like in sales, as you'll be working closely with clients and teams. Your success depends on your team's success.
Many engineers eventually move into management roles without needing a business degree. I hope this helps you make a well-informed decision. Good luck!
Each career path has its own pros and cons. You'll need to decide if you prefer a technical or management focus. Right after graduation, there aren't many business roles in tech, but you might find positions like scrum master or project manager. These roles have fewer openings and are generally less demanding than software engineering jobs. Keep in mind that finding a role in tech requires a lot of determination.
I recommend learning beyond what your school teaches. Software engineers earn well because they constantly learn in a fast-changing industry. In management, you won't need to learn as many technical tools or languages, but being good with people is key. You'll need strong listening and communication skills, much like in sales, as you'll be working closely with clients and teams. Your success depends on your team's success.
Many engineers eventually move into management roles without needing a business degree. I hope this helps you make a well-informed decision. Good luck!
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Anantha’s Answer
This is a great question. As an IT professional who has been in this field for more than 2 decades, I have gone through this situation similar to what you are facing and in fact, I have no regrets on what I chose.
The way I have looked at myself while making this decision is ask your few questions, which will help you to point in a particular direction.
For eg: If you are an individual and always, think through logically through steps and are deep analytical in nature, may be taking a peek at IT may a good start point.
If you have more inter-personal skills and can communicate well, may be start with business.
But, in Today's world, there are many opportunities where you can combine both these skills and be very successful. This can give you confidence that, you can switch between, should you feel a need to.
Good luck with any choice you make that gives your happiness and a work/life balance.
THanks
Certainly happy to discuss this further, should you the need.
The way I have looked at myself while making this decision is ask your few questions, which will help you to point in a particular direction.
For eg: If you are an individual and always, think through logically through steps and are deep analytical in nature, may be taking a peek at IT may a good start point.
If you have more inter-personal skills and can communicate well, may be start with business.
But, in Today's world, there are many opportunities where you can combine both these skills and be very successful. This can give you confidence that, you can switch between, should you feel a need to.
Good luck with any choice you make that gives your happiness and a work/life balance.
THanks
Anantha recommends the following next steps:
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Alexa’s Answer
It's perfectly normal to be unsure about your major when starting college; lots of students feel the same way. Both majors you're considering have great career opportunities. Neither one is harder than the other; they're just different. Keep an open mind and go with what excites you!
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Srilatha’s Answer
Hi Kimberly!
Choosing between business and computer science/tech can be exciting:
- Interest: If you love logic, coding, and solving puzzles, CS might be for you. If you enjoy leading, communicating, and planning, business could be a great fit.
- Difficulty: CS can be challenging with lots of math, but it's rewarding. Business focuses more on people skills and is less math-intensive.
- Career Outlook: Both fields have great job opportunities, and tech roles often offer higher starting salaries.
- Fit: CS is ideal for analytical, detail-focused people. Business is great for those who are social and strategic.
Try taking classes or doing internships in both areas to see what you enjoy most.
Choosing between business and computer science/tech can be exciting:
- Interest: If you love logic, coding, and solving puzzles, CS might be for you. If you enjoy leading, communicating, and planning, business could be a great fit.
- Difficulty: CS can be challenging with lots of math, but it's rewarding. Business focuses more on people skills and is less math-intensive.
- Career Outlook: Both fields have great job opportunities, and tech roles often offer higher starting salaries.
- Fit: CS is ideal for analytical, detail-focused people. Business is great for those who are social and strategic.
Try taking classes or doing internships in both areas to see what you enjoy most.
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Christine’s Answer
Hi - I followed a technical path with an undergraduate degree in engineering, followed by a master's in business administration. And my company paid for my master's degree, which was a huge benefit! If you have the aptitude to pursue a technical degree, start there as that will provide you with a specialization that employers are seeking and willing to pay a premium for your expertise. You can follow that with either an advanced business degree or receive on the job training and experiences in business. Just know, that either path is a good one - make a choice and give it your all and if it's not to your liking, then make needed adjustments along the way.
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Munu’s Answer
Do both - major in Computer Science with a minor in Business. Understanding the fundamentals of technology, with an overlay of how technology can deliver business value/outcomes will be critical. Within Business, take a couple of entrepreneurship classes.
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Eddy’s Answer
Great question—and it’s completely normal to feel undecided at this stage.
When choosing between business and computer science, the most important thing is to select a major that truly aligns with your interests and passions. This is your first major step in shaping your future career, so following what genuinely excites you will make the journey more fulfilling and sustainable.
In terms of difficulty, computer science programs are often more competitive to get into at many universities due to high demand and limited space. They also tend to be more rigorous, with a heavy focus on math, logic, and programming. Business majors, while still competitive at top schools, may offer a bit more flexibility in coursework and entry requirements.
However, the labor market is constantly evolving, and both fields offer strong job opportunities. Technology is deeply integrated into business today, so there’s even room to combine the two interests later on—like pursuing a career in tech management, data analytics, or entrepreneurship.
If you're unsure, consider taking introductory or exploratory classes in both areas during your first year of college. This can help you get a real feel for each subject before declaring your major.
Ultimately, choose the path that energizes you the most—you’ll be more motivated, successful, and satisfied in the long run.
When choosing between business and computer science, the most important thing is to select a major that truly aligns with your interests and passions. This is your first major step in shaping your future career, so following what genuinely excites you will make the journey more fulfilling and sustainable.
In terms of difficulty, computer science programs are often more competitive to get into at many universities due to high demand and limited space. They also tend to be more rigorous, with a heavy focus on math, logic, and programming. Business majors, while still competitive at top schools, may offer a bit more flexibility in coursework and entry requirements.
However, the labor market is constantly evolving, and both fields offer strong job opportunities. Technology is deeply integrated into business today, so there’s even room to combine the two interests later on—like pursuing a career in tech management, data analytics, or entrepreneurship.
If you're unsure, consider taking introductory or exploratory classes in both areas during your first year of college. This can help you get a real feel for each subject before declaring your major.
Ultimately, choose the path that energizes you the most—you’ll be more motivated, successful, and satisfied in the long run.
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in both Computer Science and Business.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to Computer Science, e.g. web developer, apps developer, system developer, application support, network administrator, etc. Similarly, there are many careers related to Business, e.g. Accounting, Finance, Banking, Trading, Marketing, Human Resources, etc. You can find out more online
2. You find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor and your parents, etc.
4. If you really have careers on these 2 subjects, you can shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The your 1st option would be your major subject and another one would be the minor.
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related to Computer Science, e.g. web developer, apps developer, system developer, application support, network administrator, etc. Similarly, there are many careers related to Business, e.g. Accounting, Finance, Banking, Trading, Marketing, Human Resources, etc. You can find out more online
2. You find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor and your parents, etc.
4. If you really have careers on these 2 subjects, you can shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The your 1st option would be your major subject and another one would be the minor.
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Ritvik’s Answer
Overall, getting into computer science programs is slightly harder and does require you to know programming languages and it can also be heavy on advanced math concepts, which is required to get a better understanding of the logic behind the programs you are developing. On the other hand, business is more on the broader side and gives you the ability to choose what you want to specialize in such as marketing, sales, operations, and accounting/finance. Business generally does have an easier learning curve, but does emphasize on communication and working with other people from various industries. If you are unsure on what you want to do between these majors, but also want a bit of both, your best bet would be majoring in Management Information Systems (MIS) as it teaches you basic technical skills and gives you a better understanding of businesses and the technology they use. MIS is the perfect hybrid and also now in high demand, making it a major worth considering.