Math - Operations Research @ UIUC

<p>This is just me, but the only reason I would specifically major in something specialized like OR, if I knew I was going to grad school, was if I were going to do grad school at the same campus as my undergrad, and stay in-house. </p>

<p>I am doing my undergrad in Mathematics (Applied Math & Stats to be specific), knowing full well that grad school will be BioStatistics. By doing it this way, you are far more well versed in the graduate work you will be doing while still having the same (as far as I’m concerned) footing as another OR grad student. Of course this all depends on the description of grad programs you are seeing - but most like folks who have had a background in math prior, though its not often “required”.</p>

<p>Theres only so much specialization you will get undergrad though. Looking at your Mathematics department, I would choose the Applied Math option in a hearbeat. There is significant overlap, however the AM concentration has “more”; you will still be a mathematics major, but I think you’ll be more attractive to grad programs going the straight Applied Math route.</p>

<p>As for the bachelors/entry-level issue; if you can do grad school - do it. Yes a bachelors in any science based discipline is good - but there is a ceiling. You wont hit it before other majors, but you will hit it. A masters program is 4 more semesters - well worth it to not be stuck 10 years down the line.</p>