Stats/Math/Compsci

Good Evening All,

I am a college freshman considering some combination (double major + minor) of the three fields of study. Is it worth it to double major and minor or should I simply double major in statistics and computer science or mathematics and computer science? Looking to enter S&T, also open to attempt to break into more quantitative roles. Thank you.

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, pursuing a combination of Statistics, Mathematics, and Computer Science can be highly beneficial, especially if you're targeting S&T (Sales and Trading) or quantitative roles. Here's what you should consider:

  1. Double Major vs. Double Major + Minor:

    • A double major in Statistics and Computer Science or Mathematics and Computer Science is already a strong combination for quantitative roles. Both pairings provide a solid foundation in analytical thinking, programming, and quantitative modeling, which are highly valued in S&T and quant roles.
    • Adding a minor might not significantly enhance your profile unless it aligns directly with your career goals or fills a specific skill gap. For example, a minor in Finance could complement your technical skills if you're leaning toward S&T.
  2. GPA Considerations:

    • Be mindful of the potential GPA impact. As highlighted in WSO threads, Computer Science and Mathematics can be challenging fields, and a lower GPA might hurt your chances in competitive recruiting. It's better to excel in a double major than to stretch yourself too thin with an additional minor.
  3. Career Alignment:

    • For S&T, a strong understanding of quantitative methods and programming is crucial. A combination of Statistics and Computer Science might be slightly more aligned with the data-driven nature of trading desks.
    • For more technical quant roles, Mathematics and Computer Science could give you an edge, especially if you focus on areas like machine learning, algorithms, or stochastic processes.
  4. Flexibility and Exploration:

    • If you're unsure about your exact career path, a double major in Statistics and Computer Science offers flexibility. It keeps doors open for both S&T and more technical quant roles while allowing you to explore your interests further.

In summary, a double major in Statistics and Computer Science or Mathematics and Computer Science is likely sufficient for your goals. Focus on excelling academically, gaining relevant internships, and building technical skills like programming (Python, R, etc.) and statistical modeling. Adding a minor is optional and should only be pursued if it aligns directly with your career aspirations.

Sources: Q&A: Quantitative Analyst - Machine Learning, Analytics, & Quantitative Research/Investing, Undergrad: Is computer science 'hotter' than a business degree?, Is a CS minor worth it (Umich Ross)?, RE: Prop/Quant Trading - Why is it not as big a target as Investment Banking?, What College Major ??

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

You should be fine doing just two. I was Math + Comp Sci and now trade EQD. For quant roles stats + cs is probably the best combination based on what the interviews consist of

 

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