BA in Computer Science vs BS in Computer Science

AuburnMathTutor
Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:23:58 +0000

^ The understanding is that the coursework will make a big difference once you have made it past the first round. However, there could be employers who see the BA designation and throw the resume away. I don’t think this is as common for computing as it would be for, say, engineering, but still.

Like I said, if there is a compelling reason for not doing the BS, go for the BA. If only the BA is offered where you are going, it’s probably just as good as the BS at other places. It’s just when the same place offers both, you have to ask what the difference is, and odds are there is some difference. If the difference is that the BA requires fewer technical coursework, and you use your free time to goof off, chase tail, drink, and take joke courses, then I wouldn’t expect too much. If you use the free time to take different technical courses related to computing but not part of the standard curriculum, and you apply for jobs where such knowledge might be helpful… I would call that a compelling reason for doing the BA.

Still, I think there are a few courses that you really should take if you want to call yourself a CS major… yeah, physics and calculus aren’t necessarily those kinds of courses, but I take issue with the idea that you can waltz into a department, take a few courses you like the look of, and declare yourself a major because the other stuff isn’t important. Most employers I have talked to seem to hold similar beliefs.