CS + Economics (2024)

Computer Science + Economics, BS
for the degree of Bachelor of Science Major in Computer Science + Economics

There are few disciplines more impacted by "big data" than Economics, where analysts need to have the sophisticated skills necessary to examine large administrative datasets and write their own algorithms and software tools to do so. The Computer Science + Economics curriculum provides students with enhanced quantitative analysis and programming skills. Students learn various economic analytical skills, both theoretical and empirical, as well as computational skills.

The CS + Economics blended bachelor's degree is a partnership between the Department of Computer Science in The Grainger College of Engineering and the Department of Economics in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. As part of the computing community at Illinois, you will benefit from being part of a top-five-ranked Computer Science program with world-class faculty and research. Learn more about the Department's Rankings and Statistics.

CS + Economics (1)

College of LAS

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Program Page

CS + Economics (2)

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FAQ

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Career Information

Curriculum Map

The curriculum sequence mapped below is a sample sequence. Students will work with a department academic advisor to achieve educational goals specific to their needs and preparation.

  • Course prerequisite chain
  • Immediate prerequisite
  • Credit or concurrent registration required
  • Concurrent registration required
  • Postrequisite course sequence
Computer Science + Economics Curriculum Map
First YearSecond YearThird YearFourth Year
Fall First YearSpring First YearFall Second YearSpring Second YearFall Third YearSpring Third YearFall Fourth YearSpring Fourth Year

Notes

Before reviewing the links, students should find their effective Academic Catalog Year. When clicking any links referenced below that take students to the Academic Catalog Year pages, they should be mindful of which Academic Catalog year is displayed.

  1. This optional course is highly recommended for freshmen, who may use it to help meet free elective requirements.
  2. MATH 220may be substituted.MATH 220is appropriate for students with no background in calculus.
  3. LAS 102may be used for external transfer students.LAS 100is supplemental course international students take along with LAS 101/102/122.
  4. RHET 105(or an alternative Composition I sequence) is taken either in the first or second semester of the first year, according to the student's UIN (Spring if UIN is Odd). General Education Elective is taken the other semester. Composition I guidelines can be found atDegree and General Education Requirementsunder Written Communication Requirement.
  5. General education: Students must complete theCampus General Education requirementsincluding the campus general education language requirement.
  6. MATH 225may be substituted.
  7. ECON 202can be substituted.
  8. CS 340 and two (2) CStechnical electives (400 level CS courses)can be used to substiute the CS 233 and CS 341 requirements. The 2 technical electives must be distinct from courses used to satisfy other major requirements an can replace Free Electives
  9. Additional coursework, subject to College of Liberal Arts and Sciencesrestrictions to Free Electives, so that there are at least 120credit hours earned toward the degree.

The code used to present this flowsheet is based on original work shared by the University at Buffalo School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

CS + Economics (2024)

FAQs

Is CS econ a good combo? ›

for the degree of Bachelor of Science Major in Computer Science + Economics. There are few disciplines more impacted by "big data" than Economics, where analysts need to have the sophisticated skills necessary to examine large administrative datasets and write their own algorithms and software tools to do so.

Is it hard to pass economics? ›

Economics is a hard major because it involves a lot of mathematics, statistics, and logic. You need to learn how to use different models, formulas, and methods to analyze data and solve problems.

What makes CS so hard? ›

Are there any other reasons that Computer Science is considered hard? Computer Science requires extreme attention to detail, a really good memory, an ability to think abstractly, and the use of creativity and intuition. Students can learn to do all of these things with sufficient time and practice.

Is CS a hard class? ›

Earning a computer science degree has been known to entail a more intense workload than you might experience with other majors because there are many foundational concepts about computer software, hardware, and theory to learn. Part of that learning may involve a lot of practice, typically completed on your own time.

Why is ECON class so hard? ›

A college-level economics class can be challenging because you need to grasp new concepts like supply and demand, scarcity, diminishing returns, and opportunity costs. It requires you learn new vocabulary and to use critical thinking skills. But those theories, concepts, and terms build upon one another.

Is CS one of the hardest majors? ›

The short answer is “yes.” Search any list of majors to study, and you'll likely find that computer science tops the list as one of the most challenging disciplines to learn. Compared to other fields of study, pursuing a career in computer science requires both technical and analytical skill sets.

Is economics hard if you're bad at math? ›

Most universities with economics majors will require at least a basic level of mathematics. This, however, should not discourage anyone from pursuing an undergraduate degree in economics. With that said there are options for those who's strong-suit is not math but would still like to dive into the world of economics.

Is chemistry harder than economics? ›

It depends on what you understand better. Do you understand algebra and puzzles well? Chemistry is easier for you. But if you can understand cause and effect and if you're good at remembering a lot of definitions, economics may be easier for you.

Is economics math heavy? ›

Fact is, at the undergraduate level at many colleges and universities, economics is not a very math-intensive course of study. There are many diagrams in economics, but there is not a large amount of math. A proviso: The amount of math in the economics curriculum varies across colleges and universities.

Are CS bad for GPA? ›

While one C might have some impact on your GPA, it is unlikely to severely hurt your overall college admissions prospects, especially if it is an isolated incident.

How many CS students drop out? ›

Research shows that computer science has a 9.8% non-completion rate compared to medical sciences, with a dropout rate of approximately 1.5%. Why is that? There are a few reasons why students might drop out of computer science and information technology degrees.

What is the hardest subject in CS? ›

Top 7 Toughest Courses In Computer Science Engineering
  • Theory of Computation. Students will learn how to use computers while being aware of their limitations. ...
  • Artificial Intelligence. ...
  • Advanced Database Systems. ...
  • Compiler Design. ...
  • Algorithms. ...
  • Discrete Math. ...
  • Computer Architecture.

Is CS mostly math? ›

Because math is a foundational part of computer systems, every programmer and computer scientist needs to have basic mathematical knowledge. The type and level of math you need depends on what areas of computer science you want to work in. Some computer science career tracks require only minimal mathematical knowledge.

Is computer science oversaturated? ›

Experts Say No. Computer science and tech are far from oversaturated and the need for computer science skills will only continue to grow in tandem with the world's reliance on technology. Pretty much every area of technology is poised to expand because our cultural reliance on technology is expanding so fast.

What is best combination with CS? ›

One can pursue both CS and LLB, creating a strong combination as CS delves into various legal aspects, while LLB focuses on law in general. LLB can be done at any university, but CS is exclusive to the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).

What is the best major to combine with CS? ›

Electrical Engineering, Operations Research, Mathematics, Linguistics, and Economics are among the more popular choices for a second major. However, without a significant amount of AP credit, these second degree opportunities require very tight schedules, as well as an extra semester.

What is a good combination with economics? ›

Economics requires students to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as an understanding of economic principles. Here are the three best A-Level combinations for students who want to study A-Level Economics: Mathematics, Economics, and Business Studies.

Is a BS in econ worth IT? ›

The major's versatility opens doors to many jobs in the corporate world. Often called the “dismal science” due to its pessimistic predictions, economics is the 16th most popular major in the U.S. But is an economics degree worth it? According to government data, yes. Economics majors' earnings are well above average.

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