why major in computer science college essay

25 Genius "Why This Major" Essay Examples for Top-20 Colleges

Here's the secret to writing your "Why This Major?" essays:

They're not really asking "Why this major?" but "Why you and this major?"

Just like with your Why This College essays, you need to show that you're a perfect match for the program you're applying to through specific examples , ideas , and connections to the school's offerings .

Even if you're applying undecided or undeclared , which is common for students to do, admissions officers ask this question because they want to know these 3 things:

• Do you have an idea about what you want your future to look like (what you want to study, possible career, etc.), and will our school help you fulfill that vision?
• Do you have what it takes to be a successful student within your desired major or program?
• How genuinely interested are you in this area of study? Or are you choosing it for superficial reasons (like money)?

What if you're undecided?

Even if you're undecided, you should have some idea about possible fields you're interested in.

It's impossible for you to have lived 17 or 18 years and not picked up some sort of interest that you could study in college.

After all, why are you applying to colleges in the first place? Probably to pursue a more in-depth education in a particular area.

So if you're applying undecided, you'll need to still talk about potential areas you're interested in, even if you aren't totally committed to them yet.

What makes a great "Why This Major?" essay?

The best "Why this major" answers show a deep level of interest and knowledge about the field.

Admissions officers want to know that you're serious about what you want to study.

Tip #1. Avoid superficial or cliché reasons

I often see students write generic remarks like...

• "Math is the language of the universe"
• "Studying communications will help me learn how to collaborate with others better."
• "Computer science is about problem solving"

These are OK starting points, but you need to delve deeper.

How do you go deeper? Try writing about specifics of the field.

Use some geeky or technical language . Instead of saying "biology," you could write about "molecular biology and its impact on genetic engineering."

Be specific and vivid in your writing, and show your interest in the field using specific anecdotes and moments that you haven't yet written about.

Tip #2. Ask yourself questions at the heart of the area of study.

If you're writing about math, some simple but deep question to ask yourself are things like:

• Is math discovered or created?
• What are the unsolved mysteries of math?
• How do the different branches of math (e.g. algebra, geometry, etc.) relate to each other?

These types of questions will get you thinking about what the major represents, rather than just what it literally is.

Focus on ideas , which are always most interesting.

Tip #3. Think about what the most common answer would be, and then say something different.

For computer science, I see a lot of students write about things like "automation", "artificial intelligence", or "problem solving."

For engineering, I see a lot of students write things about Legos or other "building" toys that they played with growing up.

For medicine, I see students write about "wanting to help people."

These are fine starting points for reflecting, but on their own it'll come off as cliché.

Tip #4. What will this school in particular offer to help you study this field better than other schools?

All colleges offer pretty much the same selection of majors and programs, so what is unique about this school's approach?

Again, you'll need to do some thinking and research.

Tip #5. Show how you've already explored the field.

Think about your classes, but more importantly, think about the ways you've gone beyond the classroom.

Those reasons are the most compelling for why you're a great fit for the major.

How to structure your "Why This Major?" essay

Here's formula you can use to write this essay if you're struggling to get started:

• I am passionate about subject X and here's why (offer a short story or anecdote)
• Here's is what I want to do with that passion in the future
• This is what this school has to offer or will do in order to help me achieve my goals and how (specific and unique reasons)

Now, let's look at some examples of students who wrote successful "Why This Major?" essays.

I've gathered 25 "Why Major?" essays from students who got into top-20 schools like Brown, Georgetown, MIT, and more.

This huge list covers a variety of majors and programs—from Computer Science to English to Bioinformatics—so you'll be able to find one that's similar to yours.

Let's dive right into it.

25 "Why This Major" Essay Examples

1. "why bioinformatics" georgetown essay example.

Prompt: Please relate your interest in studying at Georgetown University to your goals. How do these thoughts relate to your chosen course of study? (If you are applying to major in the FLL or in a Science, please specifically address those interests.) (500 words max)

Why This Essay Works:

Having specific details is key to making your essays more engaging. Whenever possible, substitute broader terms for more specific ones. In this essay, the student does this well, for example by writing "recombinant DNA into Escherichia coli" instead of saying "molecular biology."

Digging into why you're passionate about certain things is important for "Why Major" type of essays like this one. Admissions wants to know how and why that interest started. This student does a great job of telling a family story that inspired their interest in French and an academic experience that sparked their biology interest.

What They Might Improve:

This essay doesn't mention much of what Georgetown would offer them. Whenever possible, it's beneficial to reference specific aspects about the school you're applying to. This demonstrates genuine interest and makes it more convincing that your studies would flourish at the school. Although this isn't a "Why Georgetown" essay, these details can and should be incorporated, as the prompt asks you to relate your chosen area(s) of study to the school.

2. "Why Linguistics?" Brown University Essay Example

Prompt: Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about any academic interests that excite you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue them while also embracing topics with which you are unfamiliar. (200-250 words)

My primary interest is in languages and linguistics, specifically Spanish, Portuguese and the descent of these languages from Latin which I explored in my IB Extended Essay. Thus, something that excites me about the complete freedom of the Brown curriculum is the opportunity to learn about Hispanic and Lusophone culture, literature and language in an intersectional way through a concentration in Latin American studies combined with classes and undergraduate research in Linguistics. I intend to supplement my language acquisition with practical application through study abroad opportunities at PUC-Rio, Brazil and in Santiago, Chile, perhaps through the Engaged Scholars Program which will allow me to forge deeper connections with the communities and cultures I am studying. I am also attracted by the possibility of a 5-year BA/MA course in Linguistics which will permit me to conduct meaningful and extensive research on a topic I am truly passionate about.

However, I also have an interest in Biochemistry and Molecular biology. The Open Curriculum will enable me to pursue this avenue of study and research without detracting from my principal focus on languages. Therefore, perhaps what I am most excited for is interdisciplinary study at Brown and the possibility of forging unforeseen connections between disparate academic areas and weaving them together into a program of study that will engage, thrill, and inspire me towards a lifelong path of academic inquiry. For example, I am interested to explore how languages and sociolinguistics can be used to promote medical research and provision in Latin America.

Naming things unique to the school shows you have genuine interest. Listing specific programs, courses, or majors shows you've done your research.

The author's reasons for "Why Brown?" fit into their background and identity. This makes their reasons seem genuine and compelling.

The essay is divided into two parts with distinct answers. Showing how those reasons relate could make the essay more cohesive.

Ending with a sentence "For example..." leaves more to be desired and explained.

3. "Why Medicine and Surgery?" Pomona College Essay Example

Prompt: Most Pomona students enter the College undecided about a major, or they change their minds about their prospective major by the time they graduate. Certainly we aren’t going to hold you to any of the choices you’ve made above. But, in no more than 250 words, please tell us why you’ve chosen the academic programs (or undecided!) that you have listed. (250 words max)

I’m sitting backstage at my first international piano competition, anxiously awaiting my turn to perform. Unconsciously, I massage my right wrist, still recovering from a recent injury. The young man beside me feels my nervousness and starts a conversation.

As we whisper, I notice him rub his hands together uncomfortably. “What’s wrong?” I ask, quickly leaving my own wrist alone. He suppresses a nervous laugh, then quietly details the long and unsuccessful surgery that shattered his dream of becoming a professional musician. His hands were permanently damaged.

“Alessandra Fang,” the judges call. I stand up, walk to the main stage and look back to see him encourage me with a stiff, crooked thumbs-up. As my fingers dance on the keys, I observe the fragile muscles and ligaments under my skin.

I realize in that moment that it is not in a massive concert hall where I wanted to change people’s lives, but on a smaller stage: an operating room. As an artist who has had her share of painful, music-related injuries, my goal is to become a musician’s physician, and blend my greatest two passions so that I might bring relief to those around me, while understanding their musical and anatomical plight.

I wish to pursue both Biology and Music programs at Pomona College. I want to become a hand surgeon while still developing my artistry on the piano. After all, surgery also has its own cadence, complexity and composition.

4. "Why Education/Teaching?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Prompt: Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100-550 words)

Growing up, I always pictured myself as a great teacher as an adult. With the second best secondary education program in the country and an emphasis on the liberal arts and undergraduate education, I am confident that U-M will shape me into the great educator I’ve dreamed of becoming since I was a kid.

Hallmarks of a liberal arts education include teamwork, problem-solving, clear writing, and effective communication. These are also skills that any exceptional teacher needs. U-M offers an unparalleled curriculum that prepares students to successfully run classrooms and obtain Provisional Teacher Certifications upon graduation, exposing students to diverse classes and people in Ann Arbor, and providing them with an invaluable liberal arts education along the way.

Being an effective teacher means connecting with and stimulating all students at its core. The liberal arts foundation I will receive in the College of Literature, Sciences, and the Arts (LSA), married with the experiential education and training the School of Education (SoE) will provide, will mold me into that great teacher—a mentor and role model for any student, regardless of creed—I’ve always aspired to become.

The Teacher Education Preferred Admission (TEPA) for incoming freshmen piqued my interest because the program is the crossroad between the liberal arts and teacher education; two components I was looking for in a college. TEPA will allow me to build a strong liberal arts base in LSA my first two years on campus before entering SoE, while also gaining beneficial experiences in the education field early on.

The education-oriented programs WE READ and Students Empowering Education specifically appealed to me because they will bridge my liberal arts education with my anticipated career as a high school English teacher. Similarly, my Spanish classes will have a practical application in the Ann Arbor Language Partnership, a program that immediately interested me as a potential Spanish minor.

During my first two years as a pre-admit, I'll be supported by my TEPA peers and staff, specifically from my SoE personal adviser. TEPA will take the large campus and make it feel smaller, allowing me to form organic connections with like-minded people and groups that can cultivate my interest in education before entering SoE junior year.

I need a meaningful education to be a meaningful educator. Truthfully, I could go to almost any college to become a teacher, but only schools that synthesize in- and out-of-classroom learning like SoE produce great ones. U-M ranking sixth in the country for undergraduate teaching bolstered my interest in the university and confirmed what I already knew: I will receive an education in LSA and SoE that will change who I am as a person and not just a student, and prepare me to provide the same for others as a teacher.

The great educator I’ve always envisioned myself becoming is one that can inspire without bounds. From my time as a student, I’ve come to realize that a truly influential teacher can work with students who have little in common with themselves and still be impactful. LSA's purposeful and broad curriculum, paired with SoE's hands-on courses and fieldwork, and the additional opportunities available through TEPA, will shape me into that life-changing teacher, for any student who walks through my classroom door.

5. "Why Business?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Growing up in a community that bleeds maize and blue, the community represented by the University of Michigan has always been one that I could see myself representing as both a student and alumni. From football games at the big house to classes at Ross, each and every opportunity available at U of M represents a piece of my life that I hope to continue to incorporate into my life for the rest of my life.

The opportunity to take courses that allow for enriched experiences in developing a real business is one that I intend to be involved in as soon as possible. I will use this type of class as a way to test my skills and learn where I need to become stronger as a leader and student. Watching others equally driven as me, their tactics that are successful and not successful will imprint on how I attack problems in the future and shape my overall leadership style.

By being involved in the Multidisciplinary Action Projects down the road as a graduate student, I hope to learn firsthand what it takes to run and be involved with real businesses. Firsthand exposure is the best way to learn how to solve problems- especially surrounded by peers who are equally as driven and dedicated as I am.

Filled with students striving for nothing but the best they are capable of is a community that I am certain I will enrich and fit into. By sharing ideas and collaborating together instead of against each other, each and every one of us will contribute to the business world as leaders and innovators.

The University of Michigan is a place I can see myself learning and growing as a leader for the next four years as I intend to use all of the tools at my disposal to become a top business person. The opportunities within the school I will be involved in and the peers that I will work beside only enrich the values of what being a Wolverine mean to me.

6. "Why Math and Accounting?" University of Southern California (USC) Essay Example

Prompt: Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 words max)

All throughout my life, I always loved doing math no matter what the concept. My love for math led to me taking advanced math classes for my grade. I even had to take a bus to a high school when I was in middle school to take an advanced math class. I always knew that I would want to pursue a career dealing with mathematics, but I was not really sure until my junior year. I had not decided what I wanted to be in the future, so my uncle suggested being a CPA, and I looked into it. When I did my research, it interested me as they made a decent amount of money and they worked with numbers.

At USC, I would like to major in accounting and gain the opportunity to possibly receive an internship at one of the big accounting firms in Los Angeles through the networking of USC. If I were able to get an internship, I would be able to gain experience for when I graduate and search for a job. I would also consider going for a Masters of Business Administration as I know that USC has one of the best business programs in the country.

7. "Why Computer Science?" Columbia University Essay Example

Prompt: Describe two or three of your current intellectual interests and why they are exciting to you. Why will Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences be the right environment in which to pursue your interests? (650 words max)

8. "Why Engineering and Law?" University of Michigan Essay Example

The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has a proactive approach to career path discovery and job search. While I do hope to aspire to a corporate attorney, an engineering degree from the University of Michigan would provide me the advantage of readiness.

U.S News and World Report published an article about challenges law school applicants with STEM degrees face. Number one was the lack of research skills. Michigan Undergraduate Engineering has research opportunities for all undergraduate students. I hope to even take advantage of The College of Engineering (CoE) International Internship Program. The chance to see the world and contribute to the world-class studies conducted by Michigan Engineering students is a unique quality. The article also reported that STEM applicants often lack job experience. Michigan Engineering hosts internship fairs, which even freshman can participate in. By utilizing the opportunity to work in a professional setting, I will be more adapt to presenting myself in a mature and respectable manor in a corporate setting.

Many people are puzzled by my aspirations to become a corporate lawyer with an engineering degree. While I enjoy learning about many areas of study, math and science have always peaked my interest. Like my attraction to law, I am drawn to the definitiveness of engineering specifically. While there is a right and wrong in methods and procedures, there is a chance to be creative; for the end goal is functionality. Law requires critical thinking, problem solving, and the questioning of presented facts and figures. These skills are also encompassed in Michigan Engineering. With a technical understanding of industry and engineering, I will be able to more accurately represent a corporation. Like the professors at Michigan Engineering, I hope to be an expert in my field. At Michigan Engineering, I will be educated by the best of the best. Professors that have been exposed to their fields in every aspect; allowing them to provide the best guidance to students. Instead of just presenting facts and figures in a courtroom, I will be able to understand and explain them.

9. "Why Psychology?" Carnegie Mellon Essay Example

Prompt: Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study? (300 words max)

When I was younger, I faced a lot of negative emotions including anxiety and low self-esteem. For a long time, I felt alone and as if no one understood how I felt. My self confidence was at an all-time low when I started taking psychology. All of a sudden the negative emotions I was feeling started making sense. I was suddenly able to understand how people were wired and why others treated me a certain way. I in fact was able to feel empathy for my aggressors after understanding that those who treated me negatively often faced struggles of their own. Most importantly, I felt as though something out there finally understood me. Because psychology offered insight into my own behavior and helped me to understand others, I was eventually able to overcome my insecurities.

In the future, I would like to help others do the same. No matter where I end up, understanding why people behave a certain way and being more considerate and empathetic for others will only help me thrive. Mental health is a growing issue in our society. The world we live in is a confusing place filled with pain, but psychology provides a way to determine the cause of this suffering and how to change it. I never want anyone to feel the isolation and sorrow I felt when I was younger. I want to help others become compassionate and unconditionally loving not just toward others, but to themselves. Even if I only make a small change in the world and affect just one person’s life, I would like to pursue that.

10. "Why Biology and Environmental Science?" University of Pennsylvania Essay Example

Prompt: Considering the specific undergraduate school you have selected, how will you explore your academic and intellectual interests at the University of Pennsylvania? For students applying to the coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer these questions in regard to your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay. (300-450 words)

As a child the world fascinated me. From questioning the makeup of the dirt I played in, to doubting the existence of gravity as I flew a kite, I was always thinking. Time passed, and my consciousness opened to more, like atoms, the Big Bang Theory, the psychology behind dreams, and the list goes on. Everything fascinated me; curiosity quickly became a part of my character. Some say ignorance is bliss, but I have to disagree. Ignorance is what fuels my curiosity; ignorance is what drives me to discover, learn, and initiate change. Living in a small rural town with my grandmother and disabled father, I have been limited by geography and socioeconomics. A perfect blend of humanities and factualities, the College of Arts and Sciences is an exploratory lab for all I do not know. At Penn, courses from Neurobiology of Learning and Memory to The Sociology of Gender allow me to rid my ignorance one class at a time. The unique and specialized curriculum provides a place to explore whatever I wonder and answer whatever I question. While my grandmother did not have the money for me to attend science camps, to visit museums, or to travel more than a few hours from my home, living in the country always provided me with endless exploration. My interest in trees in particular led me to specialize in the forestry portion of our Envirothon team for four years of high school. The passion I have for biology is second to my interest in helping others. Rural areas of Pennsylvania are in desperate need for physicians, especially in the field of women’s health. My goal is to return to my community and fill that need. As a low income, first-generation student, I have had limited opportunities, but I have seized any that I could and where there were none, I created some. As a seventh grader, I pioneered the colorguard of our newly formed high school marching band. Last year, as captain of 14 twirlers, I took my first plane ride to Disney World where my band performed. This experience taught more than I could ever learn in a classroom. Similarly, there are endless opportunities at Penn, both intra- and extra-curricular, and I plan to take advantage of all that I can to feed my fire.

11. "Why Finance and Political Science?" University of Pennsylvania Essay Example

This essay does a great job of conveying a thoughtful and candid applicant. Their phrasing, although verbose in some places, comes across genuine because the author walks you through how they learned about the school, what they're looking for in a school, and why the school would offer those specific things. Phrases like "I didn't know if I could honestly see myself studying that" are conversational and natural-sounding, which help create a sincere tone.

By referencing specific programs, like "Penn in Washington" as well as various minors and concentrations, it is clear this student has done their research about the school. One of the most important aspects for a "Why Us" essay is to find specific and unique opportunities and name them in your essay. These could be things like specific professors and their work, campus and its location, interesting classes, unique internship/study-abroad/job programs, special events, and many more. The key is referencing things that are entirely unique to the school and not many other schools too. Avoid broad terms like "renowned faculty" or "interdisciplinary studies" because virtually all colleges offer things like this, and these are some of the most over-used and artificial reasons used in "Why Us" essays.

This essay has many moments of repetition that are unnecessary. In general, avoid repeating your ideas and when editing, ask yourself of each sentence: does this add something distinctly new and important to my essay? There are two common mistakes that often create repetition: prefacing your ideas and summarizing your ideas. Unlike academic writing, you don't need to "prepare" the reader for what you're going to say, and you don't need to conclude it with a summary. By doing so, you only create unnecessary repetition and take up words which could otherwise be used to include new specific details or ideas.

This essay spends nearly half of its words explaining the "interdisciplinary" opportunities at UPenn. However, this reason is quite superficial and not at all unique to Penn, as almost all colleges offer some sort of interdisciplinary study (i.e. combining your interests or studying multiple fields). Talking about "interdisciplinary study" is one of the most common reasons students use in their "Why Us" essay, and it often comes across as generic and unoriginal. Instead, look for offerings that no other (or very few other) schools provide. Narrow down your reasons "why" to make them more specific to the school, even if they are smaller scale. You can mention things like "interdisciplinary studies" or "diverse student body" briefly as a reason why, but don't make them one of your primary reasons why, unless you have something particularly unique about it.

12. "Why Engineering?" Duke University Essay Example

Prompt: If you are applying to the Pratt School of Engineering as a first-year applicant, please discuss why you want to study engineering and why you would like to study at Duke. (150 words max)

At Duke I was equally entranced by the articulate movements of 3D printers in the Co-Lab and the stunning Gothic architecture. Instead of forming a dichotomy, these aspects of Duke blended to symbolize its emphasis on interdisciplinary education, which will offer me a nuanced perspective of the world integral to becoming a leader in engineering.

I will join the Academy for Model Aeronautics and share my passion for designing drones, while taking fascinating courses such as “Taboo Markets” and “Banality of Evil”, while simultaneously working on an engineering project that improves real people’s lives in “Engineering Design”. By joining the Duke Robotics Club, I can expand upon my love for robotics, and I hope to write for the Duke Engineering magazine, as well as join the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. By drawing from this diverse range of educational experiences, I can become a leader in creating a better future.

13. "Why Neuroscience?" University of Southern California (USC) Essay Example

I had never considered traveling across the country to pursue an education. In fact, living in Pittsburgh all of my life and growing up with people who are so adamant about staying put, forced me to believe that I too had to box myself into this small, yet evolving city. However, now I can confidently tell my friends and family that I want to travel to California for college (and ignore their odd looks).

What strikes me most about USC is its ability to maintain uniformity despite its diverse student body--in interests, ethnicity, and opinion. There are not many schools where I could be best friends with filmmakers, artists, photographers, chemists, potential CEOs, and writers. Although all of these people are spread across different schools, they still seem to maintain a cultural unity. Being surrounded by such a distinct trojan pride combined with the ambitious atmosphere would be both inspiring and propulsive.

At USC, I would not have to confine to merely one of my interests. I have always had aspirations of becoming a doctor and pursuing neuroscience, but have never felt comfortable ignoring the humanities. As a Trojan, I could pursue research at the Dana and David Dornsife Cognitive Neuroscience Imaging Center or even take part in PIBBS, while also honing my writing skills through the intricate Writing Program.

Much like the students, my interests could somehow be molded into a diverse uniformity, and I could prove my fellow Pittsburghers that perhaps they need to move around more.

14. "Why Journalism?" Ithaca College Essay Example

Prompt: Please tell us why you selected this specific academic program and what other academic programs interest you. (10-200 words)

Recording devices have been banned from the courtroom of the Supreme Court Building since 1946. Therefore, when the Court makes a landmark decision, interns must hand-deliver paper copies of the ruling to news organizations.

The interns often pair running shoes with their business attire, for the quarter-mile sprint from the Court building to the area where networks ​await.

When I first saw photographs of “The Running of the Interns”, I wanted nothing more than to ​be​ one of those people. I wanted to feel my running shoes beating against the sidewalks, to feel sweat staining my suit.

Why did this tradition attract me to journalism? Because it reminded me that the news is a race, a constantly-changing collection of stories shaping social and political development.

The opportunity to contribute to that collection is why, beyond Ithaca’s journalism program, I’m also interested in the College’s minors in Politics and Writing.

I think all of this desire to be part of a story defines what it means to be a journalist, a writer: When I become a journalism major at Ithaca College, and, later, perhaps a running intern, I get to be a contender in the race to change the world.

15. "Why Economics and Political Science?" University of Michigan Essay Example

In my junior year microeconomics class, my teacher extensively explored the ways in which people from different socioeconomic classes were affected by our economic system. I was frustrated by the ways our country forces those living in poverty to spend the little money they have on taxable goods. I began to empathize with them. How can people pull themselves out of poverty if their government seems to be working against them? More than anything, I was frustrated that I felt powerless to help them in any way.

Those lessons inspired and motivated me. I had always looked at economics as nothing more than an analysis of business models and resource allocation. I began to see it as a way to fix fundamental problems in our society, from examining the effects of healthcare expansion on crime and poverty rates to studying how shifts in our political climate affect how our country’s financial process will change. I now see economics as a way to help those in need in my country and throughout the world.

I volunteered after school for Representative Dingell and had the opportunity to attend numerous events hosted by the Ford School. Again and again, I was impressed by the extent of the Ford School’s student involvement in critical issues. Through my work with the Congresswoman, I was able to gain a greater understanding of how different groups of people were affected by shifts in political and economic priorities. My goal is to become a civil rights attorney or study economics as a way to promote sustainable growth in developing nations.

I want to begin my studies at the University of Michigan in LSA to gain a foundation in economics and political science-related courses. After my first year, I hope to gain admission to the Ford School. The connections that LSA and Ford have to Poverty Solutions solidified by interest in the University of Michigan. If I attended these schools as an undergraduate student, I would be able to assist with research on the causes and ramifications of poverty. Professor Michael Barr’s research on policy initiatives and our financial system is fascinating from the perspective of a prospective economics major. At the University of Michigan, I would be able to join teams of renowned researchers working toward the betterment of our society and our world.

The range of schools working in connection with Poverty Solutions is evidence of the University’s devotion to civic engagement. I would be able to participate in groundbreaking research regarding issues I am interested in; I would have the ability to study poverty and ways to stunt or alleviate its effects in other countries. As someone hoping to pursue a career in public service, it is truly incredible to have the opportunity to join a research community specifically geared toward solving problems I am passionate about solving.

I want to join the University of Michigan’s legacy of innovators. I want to be part of the LSA community, studying economics and political science. I want to attend the Ford School and understand how policy in America and abroad has an effect on global poverty. I want to be involved with the Poverty Solutions Initiative, conducting groundbreaking research on the ways we can reform our financial system to better serve the lower and middle classes.

16. "Why English Major?" Rice University Essay Example

Prompt: Please explain why you wish to study in the academic areas you selected above. (150 words max)

It's an understatement to label me as an English geek; I am that kid who squeals in excitement in English class when given a new essay assignment while others may groan in exasperation. I understand why some may be a bit anxious when preparing to turn in an essay for evaluation; you could bring an essay to two different English teachers and receive two different grades on it. This subjectivity is why some folks may prefer subjects such as mathematics in which the right answer is not debatable. However, its subjectivity is exactly what captivates me. I enjoy reasoning my opinions of arguments and the intentions of authors.

I was really happy when I learned I didn't have to major in Criminal Justice or Political Science to be a civil rights lawyer because I want to become a professional author as well. So, majoring in English is perfect for me.

17. "Why Political Science?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Riding the elevator to the seventh floor of Haven Hall, my heart was practically leaping out of my chest. I was meeting with Dr. Jenna Bednar of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts Department of Political Science, and as I recalled her credentials- B.A. in Political Science from Michigan, M.A. and PhD in Political Science from Stanford- I felt increasingly out of place. As a junior in high school with limited political experience, I am grateful that she agreed to take time out of her day to meet with me and answer my numerous questions about LSA, Michigan, and political theory.

Upon entering her office, my eyes were drawn to bookshelves full of political literature, from the classics like De Tocqueville and Locke (which I read in a summer college program in 2017), to her own recently published work, The Robust Federation. Encouraged by her broad smile and having just completed an official campus tour, I launched into my questions. Dr. Bednar described the connections she and her students have made at Michigan, through LSA and in general.

This revealed to me that the faculty would take a personal interest in my academic career. We discussed the average class size in LSA and the Department of Political Science, her academic background, and how to survive Michigan winters. Dr. Bednar then brought my attention to the benefits that LSA Political Science gives its students.

For example, as head of the Michigan in Washington program, Dr. Bednar's passion for both political science and education was evident as she introduced me to one of Michigan's most influential academic programs. Although I hail from two miles outside the D.C. border, I aspire to participate in the Michigan in Washington program, to build on my internship of the past year with my delegate to the Maryland General Assembly.

Under his guidance, I conducted nationwide policy research, attended civic association meetings and development forums, and traveled to our state capitol to watch the legislative process unfold. Consequently, an internship at the federal level is my logical next step toward building the foundations of a political career.

Dr. Bednar, upon hearing about my internship with my delegate, suggested that I think about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. I believe that this research program offers a unique means of building my understanding of political science. I am eager to apply to the UROP program in hopes of furthering my research skills within the complex political landscape of today. Furthermore, the variety of courses that I can explore as a political science major is remarkable: from "Sports, Politics, and Society", to "Nations and Nationalism," the scope of topics will keep me engaged.

When I sat down with Dr. Bednar, I expected a five-minute chat; I received forty-five minutes of helpful advice, political theorizing, and well wishes. Leaving her office, I felt energized and ready to dive into LSA Political Science right there. Her demeanor helped to build my confidence to boldly seek connections in my search for knowledge. I saw the Michigan difference firsthand, from various undergraduate opportunities for political science, to a universal love for the school from students and faculty alike.

18. "Why Chemistry and Biology?" MIT Essay Example

Prompt: Although you may not yet know what you want to major in, which department or program at MIT appeals to you and why? (100 words max)

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make titration indicators. When I first read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I would do, apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology. In the past few months alone, MIT researchers have visualized a critical growth kinase and decoded the kavalactone gene. To major in both the chemistry and biology departments at MIT would be an unequaled opportunity to explore the molecular basis of life and apply that knowledge to real-world innovation.

19. "Why Neuroscience?" University of Michigan Essay Example

My favorite class in high school was also my hardest. It was World Culture/World Literature, an hour and a half each day of seeing history, art, and literature not as separate entities but as intricately connected, one incomplete without the other. I learned to see humanism in Greek sculpture, religious propaganda in the chiaroscuro of Baroque paintings, disillusionment in modern art. Although seemingly unrelated to my STEM-leaning interests, the analytical skills I learned there would prove invaluable in neuroscience research. Connecting electroencephalography results to mechanisms for chronic pain relief wasn’t all too different from drawing links between historical movements and paintings; both required an intimate knowledge of background information and a willingness to take risks, to see new relationships and forge unprecedented connections.

LSA embodies precisely this mentality, fostering interdisciplinary learning and problem-solving. With classes like “Health, Biology, and Society: What is Cancer?”, bridging humanistic and biological approaches to disease, and graduation requirements ranging from Natural Sciences to Race and Ethnicity, LSA prepares students for the real world, where problems necessitate not just single-minded expertise but also a diverse understanding of other factors involved. My internship experience only confirmed the practicality of this perspective; we used mindfulness meditation alongside spinal cord stimulation technologies to treat chronic pain.

This mindset is not confined to learning inside the classroom. The LSA Opportunity Hub is robust, connecting students to internships at Nike, Forbes, and the US Department of Education, among other places. To intern as a research assistant at Mayo Clinic, to use mathematical models to predict brain tumor growth like current Michigan junior Tatum Doyle would be an unequalled opportunity. Her work in incorporating mathematical concepts in medical research personifies the LSA culture, where problems are best solved holistically. LSA’s interdisciplinary approach does not detract from fostering specialization and excellence in specific fields, but adds; its Biochemistry program promotes innovation and independence in its students and is ranked top in the nation.

I remember boiling down cabbage with my dad to make acid/base indicators. In elementary school, my teacher wrote that I had been spending too much time reading animal books and too little time playing with other kids. I loved (and still love) all things living, often marvelling at the complexity of the animal kingdom, the human body, the organs, and the cells that were the foundation for everything else. The first time I read about the process of translation, of rendering mRNA into proteins, my eyes filled with tears; this is what I wanted to do, to apply the chemistry that had defined my childhood to my love of biology.

LSA shares that passion, dedicating a plethora of resources, both intellectual and material, to its Biochemistry department. With equipment like atomic absorption spectrophotometers, classes in Endocrinology, and distinguished professors, the University of Michigan has everything any biochemistry undergraduate student would need, and much more. To research under a PI like Dr. Kopelman, winner of the J. William Fulbright Research Award, would be a dream fulfilled. His work in employing 5-dimensional chemical imaging to visualize and treat tumors does what LSA does best; it uses an interdisciplinary approach to make academic discoveries both relevant and essential in the real world. It is a culture I would be honored to take part in, should I be accepted.

20. "Why Undeclared?" University of Michigan Essay Example

Sweat drips down my face onto homework in front of me.

I just got home from a soccer game; I’m not stressed. This is until I realize I still have a plethora of edits to make on my lab report as well as emails to write for an upcoming NHS event. AND I have three tests the next day.

Although stressful, I enjoy every minute of juggling a variety of academics and extracurriculars. I appreciate all the opportunities my high school offers to me and I take advantage of as many as I can handle. Thanks to my involved years of high school, I have received a great education as well as many experiences I would never trade away.

Entering my senior year and researching universities I may want to attend, there is one question which continuously presents itself. What do I want to major in when I get to college? It is a scary question and I have never known the answer. Despite participating in many extracurriculars such as National Honor Society, Science Olympiad, Math Honor Society, and Future Business Leaders of America, I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.

As a student at LSA, I would be able to use the abundance of resources to explore possibilities for life after college. Since I am one of the many college applicants who has not decided upon a major, a large, liberal arts college like LSA is the perfect place for me to discover more about myself, pursue interests, and find my purpose. I have considered medicine, business, economics, and law. The two courses I have enjoyed the most are biomedical sciences and US History. I am truly all over the map!

With so much variety at LSA, I would be able to change majors or take a diverse group of classes so that I could find what I want to study. LSA is unique from its University of Michigan counterparts because it offers a broader range of departments, majors, and courses. The flexibility at LSA would help me discover what I want my life to be like while supporting me through my journey.

Additionally, LSA provides students with multiple opportunities not found anywhere else at University of Michigan. One program that caught my eye was Michigan Learning Communities. This program appeals to me because having the resources of this large university, yet finding a niche in the community to challenge myself and others, can help me grow as a student and a person. Similarly, the Opportunity Hub at LSA jumped out at me as I researched the University and toured the school. I would take full advantage of the great connections the Opportunity Hub provides, as it could help me find an internship or job offer when the perfect time comes. MLCs, the Opportunity Hub, and the many other programs which LSA offers are the main reasons why LSA would be the best college fit for me.

I was initially drawn to the University of Michigan by the beautiful campus, great athletics programs, unmatched prestige, and massive alumni network. However, as I dove deeper, I discovered LSA, a school that can help me realize my purpose and passions while providing a focused learning environment to lead me to a bright future.

21. "Why Computer Science?" Cornell Essay Example

22. "why kinesiology" university of michigan essay example, 23. "why mathematics" cornell essay example.

Prompt: Cornell Engineering celebrates innovative problem solving that helps people, communities…the world. Consider your ideas and aspirations and describe how a Cornell Engineering education would allow you to leverage technological problem-solving to improve the world we live in. (250-650 words)

For "Why Us?" college essays, one of the most important parts is to show ways you imagine being involved on campus. This student does a great job of showing that they've done their research about Cornell, by connecting their passion for studying heart disease to specific initiatives already taking place on campus. Try researching what events, research, or programs are being conducted. By referencing those specifics, you can create convincing reasons of why this school is fit for you.

When discussing your intended area of study, one effective strategy is to identify a problem that you see. This problem can be in the field itself, your community, or the world. Then, you can connect this problem to yourself by showing how you'd want to help solve it. Don't try to tackle it entirely yourself, but show how you'd "take bites" out of this larger problem. It is also important that you identify potential solutions to the problem. You definitely don't (and shouldn't) have all the answers, but what do you see as potential steps for combatting the issue?

Using technical language, such as referencing "semi-elliptical curves" and "modular form" in this essay, will help show your in-depth knowledge and passion. Don't be afraid to use technical jargon like this, and don't worry if admissions officers may not know all the terms. As long as they have context and knowing the terminology isn't critical to understanding your point, including "nerdy" language will make your essay more engaging and demonstrate your intelligence.

If you have personal connections to the school you're applying to (such as legacy, family members who work there, students or faculty you're close with), it can be a good idea to reference those connections. Showing personal connections to the school makes admissions think, "They're already practically one of us!" Just make sure that these connections aren't contrived: only write about them if you have a clear purpose within your essay for introducing them. In this essay, the student references their brother who attended Cornell, but does so in a way that naturally ties into the rest of their reasons for "why Cornell."

24. "Why Computer Science?" Brown University Essay Example

Prompt: Why are you drawn to the area(s) of study you indicated? (150 words max)

There was a time when I was low and afraid to be with myself. That’s when I dived into programming. I always sat with my laptop. But unlike others on Instagram or Snapchat, I was coding. I always kept myself occupied so I wouldn’t think about hardships. But as I was solving those little Instantiation and StackOverflow errors, I realized that any problem in my life had a solution. I could either modify the code and right the wrong, or just keep compiling them, producing no output. So, life is not all that different. That is why I want to pursue Computer Science. I know I can work to keep myself happy. Inevitably, what makes me happy is Computer Science, which is what I want to pursue.

25. "Why Journalism?" Emerson College Essay Example

Prompt: As you know, the academic programs at Emerson College are focused on communication and the arts. Please tell us what influenced you to select your major. If you're undecided about your major, what attracted you to Emerson's programs? Please be brief. (100-200 words)

Recording devices have been banned from the courtroom of the United States Supreme Court Building since 1946. Therefore, when the Court makes a landmark decision, interns must hand-deliver paper copies of the ruling to news organizations.

The quarter-mile sprint from the Court building to the area where networks ​await ​is no easy feat. But the interns dress with this mind, often pairing running shoes with their business attire.

When I first saw photographs of “The Running of the Interns”, I knew that I wanted nothing more than to ​be​ one of those people. I wanted to feel my running shoes beating against the limestone sidewalks, to feel sweat staining my suit.

Why did a tradition centered around dashing through D.C. attract me to journalism? Because it reminded me that the news is a race, a constantly-changing collection of stories shaping social and political development.

This, I think, defines both what it means to be a journalist and why I want to be a journalist: When I become a journalism major at Emerson, and, later, a part of the press--perhaps a running intern--I get to be a contender in the race to change the world.

What You Can Learn From These "Why This Major" Essay Examples

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Her baking is not confined to an amalgamation of sugar, butter, and flour. It's an outstretched hand, an open invitation, a makeshift bridge thrown across the divides of age and culture. Thanks to Buni, the reason I bake has evolved. What started as stress relief is now a lifeline to my heritage, a language that allows me to communicate with my family in ways my tongue cannot. By rolling dough for saratele and crushing walnuts for cornulete, my baking speaks more fluently to my Romanian heritage than my broken Romanian ever could....

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How To Write The "Why Major" Essay (Updated)

“Why do you want to study your chosen major?" is one of the most common supplemental essay prompts. It's a fair question and one that you should be able to answer in an authentic and engaging essay.

Seemingly straightforward, this question can take many different forms. 

Examples of "Why Major" Essay Prompts

Brown university.

Brown’s Open Curriculum allows students to explore broadly while also diving deeply into their academic pursuits. Tell us about an academic interest (or interests) that excites you, and how you might use the Open Curriculum to pursue it. (250 words)

Bucknell University

Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one. (250 words)

Carnegie Mellon University

Most students choose their intended major or area of study based on a passion or inspiration that’s developed over time – what passion or inspiration led you to choose this area of study?  (300 words)

Yale University

Tell us about a topic or idea that excites you and is related to one or more academic areas you selected above. Why are you drawn to it? (200 words)

Your Objectives

What should you aim to accomplish with your essay? You should:

• Describe how you developed your academic interest(s). How did you get to where you are now? What were your motivations?
• Tie your background and/or experiences to your current interests and pursuits.
• Explain how that particular college will help you delve deeper into your academic interest and prepare you for the future.
• Explain how you will contribute to that particular institution’s community while enrolled and after graduating.

How to Write the “Why Major” Essay

1. identify stories that illustrate how you developed an interest in the academic discipline..

Anecdotes are an important part of any essay you write for your college applications (and really any personal essay). They serve to draw your reader in, helping them get to know you through your experiences, and bring color to your narrative. In the case of the “why major” essay, anecdotes allow you to create an arc. You’ll show the reader how you first became interested in a discipline and bring them to the present day, building your interest with stories that offer insight into your passion for the subject.

For example, if you’re an aspiring software engineer and plan on majoring in computer science in college, you might describe your first time using a computer and what that interaction was like, or a challenge you encountered and overcame while designing an app from scratch. You should also offer a look into your experiences along the way — potentially when you realized you could not only use a machine but change the way it communicates with you and others through coding.

2. Explore how these incidents helped you develop a passion for the subject and lock onto an impactful mission you'd like to accomplish.

Connect these stories to the why of your narrative — how did these individual experiences become integral to your story and lead you to where you are today? In other words, articulate that “aha” moment. There doesn’t have to be a singular experience that made you realize this was what you wanted to do with your life; instead, you can paint a picture of how these moments together lead you to this point. In the example above, for instance, you might tie your first experience with a computer to your development in the courses you chose to take and then impetus behind your recent coding project.

In addition, connect your experience to your ultimate mission - why are you going to college? Who will you be able to positively impact with the knowledge and experience your education will give you? For example, if one of your experiences was as a coding tutor, and during that you realized that not all children have access to computer science tutors, your mission might be to create an app that provides simple and accessible lessons to children who have limited access to the internet, perhaps in a format they can download and then use offline to conserve the cost of data.

3. Explain how attending X school will help you delve even deeper into the topic.

Finally, explain what it is about the school that will help you explore your academic passion. While this is a “why major” and not a “why us” essay, you still need to weave in your excitement about this school in particular. Every admissions committee wants a student who believes that their institution is the way to achieve their goals. In order to do that, you might discuss how the program that interests you is particularly unique to that school, a faculty member you’d like to study with, a course that excites you, or something else you can’t easily find at another college.

What Not to Say 1. Don’t write about a major or class the school doesn’t offer to undergraduates.

This is a no-brainer: if the school doesn’t offer, say, journalism, don’t talk about how excited you are to pursue that major. Instead, you might discuss how their English program will prepare you for a career in journalism. Similarly, don’t mention graduate-level course offerings as there may not be an opportunity for you to actually take the course as an undergraduate.

2. Don’t regurgitate your resume.

While it’s fine to mention activities that are related to your chosen major, you should focus on how they helped shape your journey rather than describing the activities themselves. This is what the activities section is for. Your essay should be the behind the scenes story.

3. Avoid mentioning superficial reasons.

For instance, don’t say you want to be a doctor because it’s a prestigious job or that you want a high-earning potential. Your reasons need to go deeper than that (and deeper than I want to help people)! 

What If You’re Undecided?

You don’t have to have a major chosen in order to write this essay. Most colleges accept students who are undecided, unless they’re applying to a specific school or program that requires you to declare your major before matriculating.

If you’re undecided, there are a couple of ways to approach this essay. It’s a good idea to use a mix of these strategies.

• Mention 2-3 of your top interests and correlating experiences, connecting them to one another if possible.
• Describe how you expect X school to help you hone your areas of interest further and why this is the best place to do it.
• Explain why you’re undecided.
• Write about a few different courses that inspire you and explain why.
• Reflect back to your ultimate mission and how there may be many possible routes to get there and that you’d like to explore the options before deciding.

Now that you have a better understanding of the "Why Major" essay, read the 5 Steps to   ACE your Personal Statement. Already did that? Learn more about the self-paced   Write Your Way Into College   course.  

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How To Write the MIT ‘Why Major’ Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Hale Jaeger in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

Understanding the prompt, choosing a major, the reasons why, example: studying electrical engineering and computer science.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is ranked consistently as one of the top five universities in the nation according to U.S. News and World Report. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT Is known for its rigorous STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), business, and entrepreneurship programs. They use their own application system called MyMIT instead of the Common Application, and applicants are required to submit five essays. The second essay prompt reads:

“Pick what field of study at MIT appeals to you the most right now and tell us more about why this field of study appeals to you. (100 words)”

In this article, we will discuss how to approach the prompt as well as some tips for writing your essay. For an overview of the five essay prompts and guidance on how to approach them, check out our post on please review how to write the MIT application essays .

This prompt is a “Why Major” question that asks you what you want to study and why you want to study it. Most importantly, it asks you why you want to study this major at MIT. Ultimately, the most compelling response to this essay prompt is one that:

• Demonstrates clearly your passion for the major that you have chosen.
• Integrates your past and present studies and interests seamlessly with your future at MIT and your long-term academic and professional goals.
• Addresses specifically why MIT―its campus, resources, faculty, programs, and opportunities―is the place where you need and want to study.

MIT has a unique list of distinctive majors . Before you start brainstorming and drafting a response to this prompt, spend ample time exploring the various courses on the MIT website. You should pinpoint a few courses of study that appeal to you and then dive deeper into what the curricular emphasis is of each course of study, what resources and opportunities are available, and which faculty might you be interested in studying with or whose research you find compelling. 

The key phrase in this prompt is “right now,” which many schools don’t include in their “Why Major” essay prompt, but which all schools imply. This key phrase means that if you matriculate at MIT, you will in no way be required to major in the field of study that you write about in response to this prompt. You are free to choose and change your major, and most students change their major at least once during their college career.

For anyone who has many interests, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to choose just one major to write about. It is completely fine, and even expected, that you may be undecided, but spend time condensing your list of potential majors to one or two that you are truly interested in pursuing further. If you cannot decide on one major to write about, you can use your essay as a space to discuss the disciplines that you want to explore further and why. 

This straightforward prompt requires a concise response since it has only a 100-word limit. While specificity is still important, there is less space for detail than in the other 200- to 250-word prompts that MIT asks you to write. 

Once you have introduced the field of study that most appeals to you, you will need to discuss why this field appeals to you. The reasons that you give need to be authentic reasons, such as ones that are based on pure intellectual curiosity, personal goals, and strongly held values. Reasons that will not interest or impress admissions officers will be those related to clout, prestige, post-graduation salary, or because that is what your parents want you to do. The admissions committee wants to know what you are genuinely passionate about and why. 

Here are some key questions to consider before writing Prompt 2: 

• What past experiences of yours have influenced your decision to study this field at MIT? 
• What coursework or independent study have you pursued in this field?
• What classes are you interested in taking at MIT?
• Who are the teachers that you have had, thought leaders in this field, or other role models that inspire you to pursue this course of study?
• Who are the professors or researchers at MIT that you would want to learn from or work with? 
• Who are the people that you wish to serve, or whose lives you hope to improve, through working or doing research in this field? 
• How did you first discover this field of study? 
• How do you engage with this field of study inside and outside of the classroom?
• How do you envision yourself using this field of study in your future career?
• Why is this field of study personally meaningful to you?

Take, for example, an applicant who wants to pursue the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) major at MIT. In their response, they should explain that they want to study EECS because it will help them develop a rigorous understanding of the hardware and software sides of technology and build the technical skills that they need for the start-up that they aspire to run in the future. 

At MIT specifically, there is a new curriculum, and the applicant should discuss how the increased flexibility and emphasis on this interdisciplinary study will benefit them since their interests span electrical engineering, computer science, environmental science, and public policy. The applicant also recognizes that entrepreneurship and business acumen are skills that they will need to develop to run a successful start-up. Consequently, they should talk about the classes, faculty, and extracurricular programming they may want to explore at the MIT Sloan School of Management.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to Answer “Why Computer Science?” + Example Essay

Computer science is one of the most competitive majors available, especially considering how high the requirements are for acceptance.

Of course, it’s not just about the GPA and extracurriculars. If you really want a solid shot at getting accepted for computer science, you’ll need a strong comp sci essay.

And, if you’re like many engineers who dread the essay section of the college application process, you’ve likely seen the infamous “Why Computer Science? essay prompt.

Yeah, we get it. It’s hard to answer. You have to stand out from the rest of the admissions pool and there’s not a lot to say in terms of “WHY” we like things. We just… do! Of course, an answer like “it’s cool, I guess…” likely won’t suffice.

That’s why we created this guide for all of our fellow Engineering majors who hate writing!

This guide will dissect how to write the Why Computer Science? essay prompt. Additionally, we’ll also provide you with an example essay that worked for our applicant.

Table of Contents

Don’t Forget the “WHY.”

You must stand out. period. end of story., use imagery., explain why you want to attend your chosen school., explain what your greater goal is., show off your abilities in computer science., example “why computer science” essay that worked, establishing emotional maturity., showing intellectual curiosity., organic growth, not banal titles., genuine passion., collaborative mindset., how to answer “why computer science”.

There are many ways to answer the “why comp sci?” essay prompt. One could even argue that there is no “right or wrong way.” But, while that perspective is correct, we don’t think it’s very helpful for getting students to write solid essays.

The list of items below are some of the strongest tips we’ve found helped our aspiring comp sci students.

If you’ve ever taken AP Lit, you may remember the ongoing joke: The “AP” in AP Lit stands for “Answer the Prompt.” In short, students struggle to write content that directly answers the question.

Your essay goes through the same problem. Most students say what they like about comp sci, but not why.

Here’s an example.

A student says, they enjoyed robotics since they were a child. As they grew older, they learned more about coding and how it create sophisticated robots like those from Boston Dynamics.

This shows WHAT they like, NOT the passion.

You may be asking, “But wait, can’t admissions officers infer the student’s ‘why’?” Well, sorta. Admissions officers read through countless essays. SOMETIMES they can extrapolate your answer. However, this is more common in personal essay prompts.

You should at least briefly answer the prompt directly.

For instance:

“That’s what makes computer science so fascinating for me, and why I love it so dearly: it’s potential for an exciting future. I love that of all periods of time I’m born in this one. And, it’s a time of both uncertainty and excitement, when I may see what the potential future of coding looks like. Will my code bring robots to distant planets? Perhaps it would revolutionize the way we trade? Or, it would make life easier for marginalized minorities. Who knows? The possibilities are endless; and, even as someone with much to learn, I can’t wait to manifest said potential at the University of California.” Example Excerpt From a “Why Computer Science?” Essay.

Let’s be a little realistic and harsh for a second.

Computer science is no easy major to get into. After all, schools like Purdue boast a brutalizing acceptance rate of 29.5% for the 2023 admissions cycle . And, one of our students who was accepted into Purdue for Comp Sci had to work with us on our college admissions consulting and essay help services for a good while before their essays were ready.

Why? Because we spent a hefty amount of time helping them stand out in their essays!

Comp Sci is one of the hardest majors to be unique in. Compared to other majors, Engineering and Comp Sci computer Science receive the most extracurricular events and programs. Universities and schools shovel money hand over fist because they know Comp Sci and Engineering are worth “investing in” (hence the countless robotics and coding camps.)

Thus, you can’t write a unique “Why Computer Science?” essay by just writing about your leadership experiences and achievements. You need to get personal. This means sharing small details in your computer science journey that are strictly “you.” Maybe you still remember getting your first program to actually work after countless hours, and seeing the sun rise up to indicate your first all-nighter dedicated to the field. Or, you remember how much your family pushed against you pursuing comp sci due to you being a girl.

Everyone has unique details scattered throughout their comp sci journey. Share them, and show how they make you a unique candidate.

This is an important one.

Most students don’t know how to use imagery in their college essays. And, when you’re explaining why you’re interested in computer science, it helps to use imagery when you’re writing in narrative format.

This does NOT mean you should use imagery everywhere. Your essay should have a balance between in-depth description and straightforward explanation. After all, it’s also all too common for students to overdo it with the imagery.

Use it to describe your journey with Computer Science. But, don’t over do it. As a good rule: make 1/3 – 1/4 of your “why major” essay imagery. And, make it strong. The rest can be simple, straightforward, and professional. Balance in all things!

Every school has its pros and cons.

Some schools have a better learning environment. Others have crucial research opportunities. There are some campuses like Stanford and UCB that have a good startup culture that work for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Take your time to do research on your chosen school. Think about what actually makes these campuses worth applying to. And, don’t just parrot off what you see on the school’s website. Actually do in-depth research about the school, resources, and community. You can even look online on Reddit’s college subreddits for research. Example: if you’re applying to Berkeley, look at Reddit’s Berkeley subreddit.

Remember: this may be a “why major” essay. But, it’s still a soft way of asking students why you want to attend a specific campus.

This is one of the most important parts of a successful “Why Computer Science?” essay. You can’t talk about why you’re pursuing comp sci without inexorably talking about future goals.

Now, some people may look further into the future than others. Some may only know what their goals are job and money-wise. Others have grander schemes like startup projects and future businesses.

You DON’T have to say you’re starting a 6-figure software development business to get accepted. You just need to mention your goals in computer science.

Additionally, it helps to be specific. The more fleshed out and articulated it is, the better. For, your admissions officers will know you’ve put thought into your major.

This is your time to brag!

The “Why Computer Science” essay prompt is also a good time for admissions officers to see how much you know about the field. There’s no one superior language of code. Admissions officers just want to see that you’re learning comp sci and applying it in your own work or projects.

One way to show off your skills is to talk about some of the interesting and cool projects you’ve conducted in school. Did you program a small game? Or, did you use programming to help a robot operate? These are all interesting school activities which may demonstrate your skill.

Now, remember that school projects are likely going to be generic. So, prioritize self-driven projects that you’ve done in your own time!

But, don’t forget: your main point should be about why you choose computer science. You can show off your skills in computer science and your knowledge in the field. However, the main point remains that it’s about your passion in the field.

Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (Respond in 250 words or fewer.)* Purdue Why Major Question (Computer Science)

I made The Perished Ones: a Castlevania-inspired game with deep lore and story. It was okay. Don’t get me wrong; I love my first game like it were my child. But, I’ve still much to learn before dominating Steam like other Triple A games. Nonetheless, my love for computer science and programming has helped me breathe life into the fictional stories I’ve always wanted to share in game form. I’ve had my fair share of late night ponderings over lines of code ’till the cows came home and the sun rose up once again, signifying the daunting sign of another all nighter. While it’s no Elden Ring or Blasphemous, this game and the development journey has been very invigorating. I feel the competitions, club activities, and class assignments are nice to do. Sure. However, these past few years creating The Perished Ones has been so exciting to see. And, it’s the collaboration with fellow club members every day that has made this game –and computer science in general– so exciting. It’s why I gravitate towards Purdue Computer Science: I know through its comprehensive curriculum , networking opportunities, and fantastic startup community that I can actualize my goal –to create an engaging team of programmers equally passionate about developing the next generation of Indie Games to come. Specifically, I feel computer science is a great medium of lateral development in the game dev world; and, I’m excited to revolutionize the Castlevania and horror theme of indie games for years to come. Why Computer Science Purdue University

What Worked in This Essay?

There are 5 things that worked in the Why Computer Science? essay example. Well, there are more than 5. But, these are just the 5 main ones you can probably borrow and use in your own essay.

This essay, while boasting strong clubs and competitions, doesn’t do so in an immature way. It’s still sharing strong traits without being obsequious about it.

Additionally, the example “Why Computer Science?” essay demonstrates maturity by recognizing weaknesses. No one at the undergraduate level is a master. And, they can still be open to learning new things before being ready to call themselves Triple A developers.

That brings us to the next topic: intellectual curiosity.

This essay shows a genuine interest in the field and an openness to learning.

In any “Why Computer Science?” essay, it’s tempting to talk about how smart and impressive you are. And, while it may be useful to brag to some level, it’s good to temper that confidence with humility. This is where intellectual curiosity comes in.

If you’re someone who is willing to admit you have much to learn (hence why you’re applying to college to begin with) then you’ll show admissions officers you have the right mindset for college. Additionally, this is a great opportunity to show them that you have the perfect personality needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom. And, schools are vying for these students.

If you want to truly impress admissions officers, you need to demonstrate organic growth and achievements.

This is a strategy most people don’t use. Instead, most students just create banal titles for clubs that have no substance. They may make claims like being the chairman of a coding club or the president of a robotics and programming club in their school.

These titles used to hold weight when students peppered their applications with empty titles. But, that’s no longer the case. Admissions officers aren’t born yesterday; and, they can see when your activities are legit or BS.

The great thing about this example “Why Computer Science?” essay is that it shows a genuine growth with no BS. That is, there’s no inflation of achievement to game the system. Admissions officers can trust the applicant that what they say in the essay and application holds water. This is especially important in today’s admissions climate, considering how many students make up extracurriculars or create lazy activities that seem more impressive than they actually are. (Example: using ChatGPT to create Amazon books.)

It’s clear from this essay that the applicant has a love for computer science. Those who create passion projects on their own demonstrate passion because they’re not motivated by extrinsic institutions like clubs or competitions. It shows an initiative and determinism only afforded to those who truly love their craft.

This is why it’s so useful to create passion projects in your college application. It’s not required. But, it still serves as a major boost. And, when you’re vying for elite institutions in a competitive major, every boost in acceptance rate counts.

If you’re unsure of how to create a meaningful passion project, start by thinking about what you’re INTERESTED in, NOT what would impress admissions officers. By focusing on your own interest, you’ll create something that exudes truly honest passion; and, your readers will recognize it.

Of course, if you’re still unsure of how to create a meaningful passion project that best suits you, consider speaking with via our free consultation . We’ll respond within 24 hours and show you how to get started from the ground up.

Let’s face it: in this modern admissions climate, competition is too fierce. And, with such a fiercely competitive environment, it’s rare to find truly collaborative people.

If you’re a Bay Area student, you already know what we’re talking about.

That’s why those who are genuinely collaborative are attractive to colleges. And no. We’re not talking about those who just work in teams. There are plenty of club leaders and organizers who just work in teams for the image. It’s about genuinely having a love for working with others and struggling toward a common goal.

This is one of the great things this example essay does. It shows a love for working with other peers and creating a game that truly excites fellow classmates.

Be sure to share this love for collaboration with other people. It’s one of the best character traits indicative of future success that admissions officers appreciate. If you do, your comp sci essays will look infinitely better.

Writing a solid “Why Computer Science?” essay is pretty hard. After all, you’re competing against some of the most fiercely competitive students in the nation and beyond. And, many of these students have their own college admissions consultants and editors helping them. Yikes! That’s why one of the best things you can do is get a college consultant and essay advisor on your side. Consider speaking with us over a free consultation ; when you schedule, we’ll get back to you within 24 hours. We’ve helped students like you get accepted into some of the best schools in the nation including most recently UPenn, Columbia, Cornell, NYU, UChicago, and more!

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Computer Science Personal Statement Examples

What is a computer science personal statement?

Your application form features your grades, but the UCAS personal statement is an opportunity to sell youself to the university.

This means you need to include your skills, goals and suitability for the course when drafting a computer science undergraduate or postgraduate personal statement.

Make sure you convey your talents for programming and why you are committed to this course. Read through some of our computer science personal statement examples to see what makes a good and successful statement.

How do I write a computer science personal statement?

When it comes down to how to start a personal statement, don’t tie yourself in knots. Why do you want to study computer science? Personal statements should answer this question, so open with your motivation during your introduction.

Your computer science personal statement should be easy to read, explaining why you have chosen this course and how you intend to work hard to achieve your goals. Give your computer science personal statemen to others to proofread, and ensure the language is concise, makes sense, and is grammatically correct. Don't just rely on a spellchecker for your final draft - read it through yourself, and check for errors thoroughly.

What should I include in my computer science personal statement?

• What subject areas do you enjoy that will support your application? For example, you might pick a topic from your mathematics A level that particularly interests and talk about why you find it fascinating.
• Remember that you can only write one personal statement, so it needs to be suitable for all the universities you are planning on applying to. 
• Talk about your hobbies and extracurricular activities, and how they are relevant - what have you learned from them? Have they inspired you to do anything else? For example, have you built a computer from scratch, or built a new app or website? Are you able to code? If so, what languages can you code in and how did you learn?
• If you’re applying for a postgraduate course, you may want to talk about higher level skills you possess such as innovation, and the results of your final year undergraduate project. 
• Think about your wider reading, e.g. newspapers, magazines, journals, etc. What recent developments interest you, and why are they exciting? Remember, your computer science personal statement needs to stand out from the crowd, so make it as relevant as possible, while giving it your own, unique voice.

How do I write my computer science personal statement introduction?

Try to start your computer science personal statement with a paragraph that will immediately grab the reader's attention. For example, you might relate a story about an experience with computer science when you were a child, such as a birthday present or a day trip with your family. You might also choose to open your statement by talking about one or two aspects of computer science that fascinate you, and why you find them interesting.

For example, this candidate talks about Linux and how they overcame the challenges of using this operating system:

"My views about computing changed considerably when I heard about Linux. In the late nineties it was a newer operating system and tasks like installing and configuring were considered to be quite challenging in India. However, I was intrigued by this challenge and without any formal training I was able to independently install this system. This was due to the sound knowledge I had acquired through reading a vast range of technical books. My fascination towards the evolving IT industry has been growing ever since. "

Not only does this pick out something specific from the world of computing, but shows the reader that the applicant had the persistence and ambition to figure out how to install and use the operating system using textbooks, which is the sort of student they are looking to engage on their course.

Another example is the following candidate, who chose to open their statement by recounting the time they built their first computer:

"Building my first computer was an experience I will never forget. Looking over what seemed to be a city of silicone, I marveled at how elegantly the components were arranged on the motherboard. Yet I did not feel fully satisfied, as I knew there was a whole other world of computing, which could only be explored by completing a degree in computer science.

Studying A Level mathematics has taught me that there are countless methods of approaching a problem and I have also found this to be true of programming."

Again, the student has picked out something specific and told a story, which helps to engage the reader straight away and tells them how interested they are in computing. They then go on to relate their current studies to the course, which is another strength of the opening of this statement.

Hopefully these two examples show how you might put together your own unique opening for your computer science statement, but if you're still struggling, take a look at the rest of our example personal statements .

How do I write a conclusion for my computer science personal statement?

We suggest rounding off your statement with a paragraph about your extracurricular activities and hobbies, and how they relate to your course. For example:

"I also participated at a first-aid national contest organized by the Red Cross Romania, which gave me the opportunity to be the leader of a rescue team. This helped me understand better how to face critical situations and improve my leadership skills.

I often think that computer science will give me the chance to reach higher peaks, and I really consider that it has already helped me see life in a different way. Programming gave me the chance to help many children with special needs, to meet interesting people, to discover a new world. That is exactly why I would like to study and follow a career in this field."

Further resources

For more help and advice on what to write in your computer science personal statement, please see:

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• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
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Explore 15+ Brilliant Computer Science Essay Examples: Tips Included

Published on: May 5, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Do you struggle with writing computer science essays that get you the grades you deserve?

If so, you're not alone!

Crafting a top-notch essay can be a daunting task, but it's crucial to your success in the field of computer science.

For that, CollegeEssay.org has a solution for you!

In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with inspiring examples of computer science essays. You'll learn everything you need to know to write effective and compelling essays that impress your professors and get you the grades you deserve.

So, let's dive in and discover the secrets to writing amazing computer science essays!

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Computer Science Essays: Understanding the Basics

A computer science essay is a piece of writing that explores a topic related to computer science. It may take different forms, such as an argumentative essay, a research paper, a case study, or a reflection paper. 

Just like any other essay, it should be well-researched, clear, concise, and effectively communicate the writer's ideas and arguments.

Computer essay examples encompass a wide range of topics and types, providing students with a diverse set of writing opportunities. 

Here, we will explore some common types of computer science essays:

Middle School Computer Science Essay Example

College Essay Example Computer Science

University Computer Science Essay Example

Computer Science Extended Essay Example

Uiuc Computer Science Essay Example [

Computer Science Essay Examples For Different Fields

Computer science is a broad field that encompasses many different areas of study. For that, given below are some examples of computer science essays for some of the most popular fields within the discipline. 

By exploring these examples, you can gain insight into the different types of essays within this field.

College Application Essay Examples Computer Science

The Future of Computers Technology

Historical Development of Computer Science

Young Children and Technology: Building Computer Literacy

Computer Science And Artificial Intelligence

Looking for more examples of computer science essays? Given below are some additional examples of computer science essays for readers to explore and gain further inspiration from. 

Computer Science – My Choice for Future Career

My Motivation to Pursue Undergraduate Studies in Computer Engineering

Abstract Computer Science

Computer Science Personal Statement Example

Sop For Computer Science

Computer Science Essay Topics

There are countless computer science essay topics to choose from, so it can be challenging to narrow down your options. 

However, the key is to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that aligns with your assignment requirements.

Here are ten examples of computer science essay topics to get you started:

• The impact of artificial intelligence on society: benefits and drawbacks
• Cybersecurity measures in cloud computing systems
• The Ethics of big data: privacy, bias, and Transparency
• The future of quantum computing: possibilities and challenges
• The Role of computer hardware in Healthcare: current applications and potential innovations
• Programming languages: a comparative analysis of their strengths and weaknesses
• The use of machine learning in predicting human behavior
• The challenges and solutions for developing secure and reliable software
• The Role of blockchain technology in improving supply chain management
• The use of data analytics in business decision-making.

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Tips to Write an Effective Computer Science Essay

Writing an effective computer science essay requires a combination of technical expertise and strong writing skills. Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling and well-written essay:

Understand the Requirements: Make sure you understand the assignment requirements, including the essay type, format, and length.

• Choose a Topic: Select a topic that you are passionate about and that aligns with your assignment requirements.
• Create an Outline: Develop a clear and organized outline that highlights the main points and subtopics of your essay.
• Use Appropriate Language and Tone: Use technical terms and language when appropriate. But ensure your writing is clear, concise, and accessible to your target audience.
• Provide Evidence: Use relevant and credible evidence to support your claims, and ensure you cite your sources correctly.
• Edit and Proofread Your Essay: Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and formatting issues.

By following these tips, you can improve the quality of your computer science essay and increase your chances of success.

In conclusion, writing a computer science essay can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. 

It allows you to showcase your knowledge and skills within the field and develop your writing and critical thinking abilities. By following the examples provided in this blog, you can create an effective computer science essay, which will meet your requirements.

If you find yourself struggling with the writing process, consider seeking essay writing help online from CollegeEssay.org. 

Our AI essay writer can provide guidance and support in crafting a top-notch computer science essay.

So, what are you waiting for? Hire our computer science essay writing service today!

Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)

As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, writing a standout computer science college essay.

Hey all, I'm applying to colleges next year and I plan on majoring in computer science. I want my college essay to stand out, so do you have any tips or ideas on how to make a computer science-related essay unique? Thanks in advance!

Absolutely! Your college essay is a great opportunity to showcase your passion for computer science while also highlighting your personality and unique experiences. Here's an outline to help make your computer science-related essay stand out:

1. Choose a specific angle: Avoid writing a general essay about your love for computers or programming. Instead, focus on a particular aspect of computer science that has significantly impacted your life or inspired you. This could be a project you worked on, a specific concept or language you found fascinating, or a problem you encountered and worked to solve.

2. Incorporate a personal story or moment: Present your idea or experience through a personal narrative to make it relatable and engaging. A moment of conflict, challenge, discovery, or growth can make for a captivating story, allowing you to demonstrate how you've applied computer science to your own life or how it has shaped you.

3. Show your passion and curiosity: Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and exploring new concepts within computer science. Showing that you're not only skilled in this field but also genuinely interested and dedicated to its development will make your essay more compelling to admissions officers.

4. Emphasize your impact or contribution: Colleges love to see how you've made a positive impact or contributed to something greater through your passion for computer science. Discuss how you've overcome obstacles, acted as a mentor, or used your skills to benefit your community, school, or other organizations. This will demonstrate your commitment to bettering the world through your talents.

5. Infuse your personality: Don't forget to let your personality shine through in your writing. Admissions officers want to get to know you as an individual, so write as authentically as possible and use your unique voice. This could include sharing a quirky hobby related to computer science or revealing how your cultural or personal background has shaped your perspective in the field.

6. Revise and polish: Finally, don't underestimate the importance of editing and revising your essay. Ensure that your narrative flows smoothly, and work on making your sentences clear, concise, and powerful. Ask for feedback from a trusted friend, teacher, or family member, and be open to their suggestions.

Remember, the key is to make your essay a reflection of who you are and how computer science has played a meaningful role in your life. Good luck with your writing!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Why did you choose computer science? Sample answers & more

Computer science is one of the most popular study programs in the last fifteen years. And it likely won’t chance anytime soon. The demand for programmers, designers, testers, engineers and other IT professionals exceeds the supply , and as fresh graduate with a degree from computer science you won’t have a problem getting a job . Not many people can say the same about their study program. But is this a good enough reason to mention on your application , or in the school admission interview ? We will try to find the answer on the following lines.

First of all, there’s no shame in wanting to earn well, and to live a decent life. Money cannot buy happiness, but it is hard to live a happy life when bills are pressing you , and you have to count every cent to make sure you won’t end up on the street the next month. Secondly, the primary aim of any college studies is to allow you to apply for better jobs (in the given field of study). You can definitely refer to it in your answer. Having said that, good job with a high salary should not be your only reason . You should have other motives as well…

Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to this interesting question. I tried to include a variety of answers on my list–with a variety of reasons, including some unconventional responses . Go through them, pick one that resonates with you , and do not forget to read also my conclusion and final tips at the end of this post.

7 sample answers to “Why did you choose computer science as your course?” interview question

• I just enjoy working on the computer more than anything else. I’ve been messing around with programming since I was thirteen, designing simple websites and games. And I must say that I’ve done well, and enjoyed the process , and it motivated me to pursue my studies in the field, and eventually get a job with some interesting game studio or similar company. I believe that we should do for a living something we enjoy doing . And I enjoy programming, and bachelor in computer science was therefor an obvious choice.
• First of all, I see a huge perspective in the field . The technology keeps evolving, with robotics and AI playing the prime in recent years. But I think we are far from the end, and the demand for motivated computer scientists will only continue to grow . This cannot be said about many other jobs with uncertain future. Robots will replace humans in certain professions, but it won’t be the case with people who design and program these robots . And that’s the side of the barricade where I’d like to stand once I finish the university. The degree in computer science is an important step on this journey.
• Speaking honestly, money drives me more than anything else . Just look at the 10 richest companies in the US, or 10 richest men. Most of them come from technological background . And I also want to earn well, so why not eating my fraction of this juicy pie ? Of course, I know the road ahead is long, and I most likely won’t become the next Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. But I want to leave my mark in the world , and I definitely want to study computer science, and one day start my own business in the field .
• I just find the field a great match for my introverted personality and my analytical skills . I’ve always excelled in Math, and I found it easy to write the code , for some school projects I’ve participated on. What’s more, though it may sound strange, I’ve always enjoyed the time I spent on my own , working on the computer, or watching documentaries. I just find IT a fitting field for my skills and personality, and cannot imagine studying anything else.
• Computer science is, in my opinion, the job field with a great outlook . I’ve actually got some job offers already while studying at high school , because I helped to solve some coding puzzles on various online forums, and some people spotted a talent in me. But I do not want to work yet. I want to study, take my coding skills to another level, earn a degree from a great university like this one , and eventually get an inspiring job with one of the tech giants . That’s a plan, and I believe I can make it come true, if I study hard and dedicate myself to my mission.
• I know it may sound strange, especially when I already have a degree from history . Computer science and history is not a typical combination. Life is unpredictable though, things do happen, and I find it hard to provide for my family with the job I have as a historian . Everyone know there’s huge potential in IT, and the salaries people in the field earn are second to none. I’d love to study online and earn my bachelor in computer science, to be able to apply for jobs with much better salaries, and improve the living conditions for me and my family. That’s why I chose this computer science course.
• I have great GPA , and I definitely had a chance to apply for any study program, at almost any university. And it was not easy to choose, because I find many things interesting , and one can have an impact and thrive in many different jobs. But I’ve done the career test, and also talked a lot to the school counselor , trying to understand better what I expect from life , what I really excel in, and then match it with a fitting study program . Computer science ended up the best choice, and I am thrilled to apply with your amazing university.

Special Tip: What if I told you that you can practice your answers to ALL tricky interview questions you may get while trying to get to a computer science study program or secure the internship in the field, and get an immediate feedback from a life-like AI interview coach ? And that you can start doing it for free , and it is a lot of fun too? 🙂 Check out this page on our partner website , Real Mock Interviews, pick a question and start practicing for free , either on your mobile phone or on your computer. Enjoy and thank me later!

The question is one of your opportunities to praise the people in the admission committee

They ask why computer science, but you can actually answer two questions with your response–why computer science, and why their university . Give them some words of praise. You can even point our particular courses you are looking forward to, some stellar teachers who teach at their university, excellent campus and research opportunities , or anything else that caught your eye.

Remember that members of the admission committee are just people, like you or me. They also have their needs and dreams, and, just like everyone else, they enjoy when someone recognizes their good work . Praising the study program and study environment, you are in fact praising people who work at the college, because they are responsible for the study program, and for the successes of the school.

Show your enthusiasm for the field, outline your future plans

The more specific you are in your answer, the better . Because having specific and tangible goal will help you navigate the tricky study program and pass the exams . Perhaps toy want to work at Google one day , working on tools billions of people use all around the world.

Or you want to start your own business –a game design studio, graphic design studio, or some innovative startup, working on the next big thing . Let your imagination soar. Things you say in the interviews do not have to come true–and nobody will remember what you said one day , when just trying to get in. But it definitely helps to have some career goals and plans which give a meaning to your studies, and will help you with your motivation in difficult times …

Ready to answer this one? I hope so! Do not forget to check also sample answers to other tricky questions you may face while trying to get to the college:

• Why did you choose this university?
• Does your academic record accurately reflect your capabilities?
• Tell me about a time when you had to learn something new .
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Why I Majored in Computer Science

Aldo ruiz parra ’25.

My first exposure to computer science was in high school through classes where I learned the basic foundations of computer science and block coding. This sparked my interest in exploring technology, leading me to join my high school’s robotics program. Arriving at Pomona College, I intended to explore different academic disciplines, but I kept computer science in the back of my mind. It was not until I finished Introduction to Computer Science during my first semester that I discovered that I wanted to major in computer science. The structure of the assignments and challenging course nature not only honed my problem-solving skills but also left me with an insatiable curiosity to delve deeper into the field.

One of the factors that led to my decision to major in computer science was the supportive faculty and the nurturing learning environment. Through office hours, I built meaningful connections with CS professors who provided valuable guidance and support throughout my academic journey. Through mentor sessions, I had the opportunity to connect with other students, both peers and mentors, which enriched my learning experience as we tackled problems together. These positive experiences and relationships allowed me to excel in classes and stay curious while learning advanced concepts in computer science.

Another aspect that attracted me to computer science was the diverse range of opportunities offered. The department arranges the curriculum in a way that strives to balance practical applications and theoretical foundations. There are a variety of electives, from AI to human-computer interaction, that allow us to explore our passions. My favorite part about the discipline is the various subfields and industries one can break into with computer science. Some of those subfields include cybersecurity, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, computer networking and much more. Whether you aspire to pursue your passions in the industry or graduate school, computer science equips you with a well-rounded education and problem-solving skills that prepares you well for a multitude of career opportunities.

Gloria Lee ’24

I was first introduced to computer science as a senior in high school. At that time, I did not think too much about it and brushed it off, thinking that it was not something I was meant to pursue. As a freshman at Pomona, I had a tough time deciding on my major. I purposely cast a wide net and took a variety of introductory classes in different fields during my first year. It was spring of that year when I took CS051 and was reintroduced to computer science. Despite the challenges of Zoom University, I looked forward to the long CS051 labs and enjoyed working through puzzles that invited me to think deeper. It was exciting to slowly learn how to translate the logical blobs in my head into something tangible on the screen.

This learning process would have never been as enjoyable without the immense support I received from the CS department along the way. What I love most about CS at Pomona is the collaborative community it cultivates and how easy it is for me to seek help (e.g., through learning communities, professors’ office hours, etc.). Professors and student mentors are always willing to answer my questions, big or small, and they are truly invested in helping us learn. Without this community, I honestly could not imagine myself as a CS major.

I love that learning CS in a liberal arts setting allows me greater flexibility to simultaneously explore other fields that interest me. I am also extremely grateful for the many opportunities I've had to explore CS through a variety of means. As a research assistant, I had the chance to work with Professor Eleanor Birrell in security and privacy research, and this helped me realize just how big CS is as a field, along with the many unique opportunities it offers. Studying CS abroad provided me with a broader perspective and gave me the wonderful opportunity to learn from professors around the world. Reflecting back, I am so grateful to have stumbled back upon CS during my first year, and I believe that all these experiences at Pomona will shape me to become a more critical and well-rounded developer in the future.

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Computer Science Major: Unlocking Exciting and Rewarding Career Paths

Computer science major.

The computer science major is an increasingly sought-after path for many students. If you’ve got a knack for problem-solving and an interest in working in technology, then a computer science major may be the right fit for you! And, as a burgeoning field , there are a growing number of computer science major jobs available for qualified graduates. 

However, it’s good to thoroughly research any major before declaring it as your course of study. Beyond seeking out careers for computer science majors, you’ll need to explore the coursework and see if it interests you.

In this article, we’re going to look at what it’s like to be a computer science major and where it might lead. Here’s some of what we’ll cover: 

• Defining the computer science major and some of its subfields
• Answers to the question: is computer science hard?
• Requirements and possible internships
• Best computer science schools
• Careers for computer science majors
• Reasons to study computer science, and more!

So, if you’re interested in learning more about the computer science major and if it’s for you, then you’re in the right place. But first, let’s start with this simple question: is computer science a good major?

Is computer science a good major?

Put simply, yes! The computer science major is an excellent choice —if your interests, goals, and skills align with this area of study. If you’re not afraid of math, you are a logical thinker, and you don’t back down from solving a problem, then you could excel in computer science. And, if you’ve searched for computer science major jobs and they excite you, then that’s an excellent sign. 

High earning potential and versatile applications

When compared with other majors, there are plenty of practical benefits to choosing computer science. For one, technology is only going to continue to grow and be a larger part of our lives. Consequently, computer science major jobs are sure to be abundant for many years to come. There is also a large variety of careers for computer science majors. Computer science major jobs could range from working in cybersecurity to being a website developer—and plenty of options in between. 

There are many computer science major jobs available to you after completing a Bachelor’s degree. This is a huge benefit. Additionally, careers in computer science tend to be well paid—among the highest paid, in fact. Of course, some computer science major jobs are more lucrative than others. But when compared to the arts, for example, the average salary for computer science major jobs will usually be higher.

So, is computer science a good major? Well, we think so! But, you should still consider, “is computer science a good major for me ?” One factor you will want to consider is your skills, or rather, how committed you are to developing them. Even students who are predisposed to math and problem-solving may struggle at first. However, it is worth it in the long run if you want to prepare yourself for the best computer science major jobs. And, no matter where your strengths lie, perseverance and dedication are absolutely necessary to build successful careers for computer science majors.

So, is computer science a good major? Yes. Next, let’s discuss what kind of challenge to expect from a computer science major.

Is Computer Science Major hard?

If you’re considering a computer science major, your next question might be: Is computer science hard? Well, generally speaking, the answer to that question is yes. The computer science major is considered to be one of the more challenging and difficult college majors available. 

But why is computer science hard? There are various reasons . For one, it is a math-intensive major. So, if you’re thinking of studying the computer science major and pursuing careers for computer science majors, it will certainly help to enjoy math. Within the computer science major, there is also a lot of theory and abstract concepts. This can be tricky for some students at first. Additionally, for certain computer science majors, you’ll need to learn programming, which is basically like learning a whole new language. 

The importance of staying motivated

An important part of excelling as a computer science major is to remember that computer science courses will be challenging at first—for most students! Hard work and self-motivation are key to finding success in all college majors, particularly in the more difficult majors such as computer science.

Moreover, you’ll have plenty of computer science major jobs to choose from after graduation . And, as we’ll discuss more in-depth later on, the starting computer science degree salary is also higher than most. So, if finances and stability are important considerations for you, then the computer science degree salary may help keep you motivated during your studies as well!

What does a computer science major study?

Typical coursework for a computer science major will focus on technology. Students should expect to take foundational courses in programming, algorithms, and data structures. Additionally, students will learn about computers and operating systems, delving into how they actually work. 

When wondering, “is computer science hard?”, consider the types of courses you’ll take. If you aren’t great at math, then the math requirements as a computer science major may be challenging.

While the general requirements will be the same, you can choose a specialization or some interesting electives. For example, Cornell offers electives in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and cryptography just to name a few. 

Developing relevant skills

As a computer science major, no matter the specific courses, you will benefit from having certain skills. If you’ve taken some advanced math courses or computer programming classes in high school and excelled in them, then you’re off to a great start!

Apart from programming skills, students will benefit from knowing how to research, being logical and critical thinkers, and knowing how to write—that’s right, writing is a useful skill for all college majors! These skills will come into play daily in all careers for computer science majors. If you’re hoping to find the best computer science major jobs and secure the alluring computer science degree salary, then you shouldn’t back down to a challenge, as much of your work will be solving problems on the fly. 

Computer Science Major Sub-fields

Computer science is a broad field. As such, there are many computer science major jobs. Your major and learning can be applied in many ways and therefore encompass various sub-fields. 

With plenty of diversity in the computer science major, you’ll want to consider what areas most interest you. This can help you determine your concentration and potentially find the best computer science jobs for you. 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the computer science major subfields:

Computer Science Major Specializations

Systems software.

This basically manages the computer. It runs in the background to maintain the computer’s basic functions. It’s the base of the computer, on top of which other software can be run. There are plenty of computer science major jobs for software developers.

Algorithms and Data Structures

Algorithms are about solving different problems. Usually, this involves manipulating data structures (the different forms in which data can be stored). Possible careers for computer science majors in this focus might include database administrator or data scientist. 

Artificial Intelligence

You’ve probably heard all about AI in recent years. Basically, it’s machines simulating human intelligence—in this case, in computer systems. Many computer science major jobs have opened up in AI, and there are sure to be more. 

Computer Architecture

We know that architecture has to do with the building structure. In this case, it’s the organization of the parts that make up the computer system. 

Computer Graphics

As its name suggests, computer graphics is about arranging and creating visual content. It can refer to three- or two-dimensional graphics. 

Cybersecurity

This covers many things, but it basically has to do with protecting sensitive information in the digital world. It can refer to information security, data protection, cloud security, and more. Many large companies offer computer science major jobs in this particular field.  

Database Systems

These are the systems that store and retrieve your data. They were originally intended for business-centered applications, but are now more widely used. 

Theory of Computation

This is the theory used to solve a wide variety of problems in computer science. It uses a model of computation and an algorithm to see if and how problems can be resolved.

The subfield you decide to focus on will be determined by your interests and goals. For example, computer science jobs specializing in Theory of Computation will be different from those specializing in AI. Choose the most exciting option for you—one that has plenty of computer science major jobs that interest you. Across the board, the computer science degree salary is higher than most , so go for the jobs you’re most passionate about. You’ll surely be rewarded with an above-average computer science degree salary, no matter the job. 

What are the requirements for a Computer Science Major?

Just as with all college majors, most schools have similar requirements for a computer science major. However, electives, internships, and research opportunities will vary depending on the school you choose.

Any of the best colleges for computer science will provide you with an excellent education. However, the types of courses you take will determine how prepared you feel to take on different computer science major jobs after graduation. So, when searching the best colleges for computer science for you, see if the classes interest you!

Let’s look at a few of the best colleges for computer science to see their course requirements and offerings:

Requirements at Top Computer Science Colleges

Stanford university.

As one of the best computer science schools, Stanford has a challenging program. However, students will be well prepared for high-paying careers for computer science majors upon graduation. Courses at Stanford consist of math, science, engineering, and even a Technology in Society requirement. Students can specialize in AI, Computational Biology, Theory, Visual Computing, and more. Within the computer science major, students are urged to pace their courses. The department discourages students from taking more than 3 CS courses a semester as they can be overwhelming and time-consuming. 

University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign

The Grainger College of Engineering is among the best colleges for computer science. Course requisites will be similar to most in computer science: math, science, and computer programming. However, the program assures that students don’t need prior programming knowledge. So, if you’re a creative problem solver and motivated student, you’ll fit right in! Graduates have gone on to have computer science jobs in companies such as Yelp, PayPal, YouTube, Match.com, and more. 

Georgia Institute of Technology

The College of Computing offers students the usual general course requirements, with a unique spin. At the Georgia Institute of Technology, a computer science major will choose two Threads to complete their degree. These “Threads” are essentially different concentrations within the broader computer science major. This offers students a unique opportunity to create their own curriculum while fulfilling the necessary requirements. For example, a student might choose Computing and Media if they have an interest in the arts and communications as well as computer science.

Later we’ll look at more of the best computer science schools. But, keep in mind that some of the best colleges for computer science have a competitive college admissions process. Of course, graduating from one of the best computer science schools may increase your starting computer science degree salary. Either way, craft your best application for all the schools on your college list !

Double-majoring with Computer Science

As with many college majors, pairing another major with computer science may allow you more flexibility when it comes to computer science major jobs and opportunities. In fact, you could be able to study a couple of different academic interests that may qualify you for more niche computer science jobs. 

Keep in mind that the options to double major will vary across schools. Some of the best computer science schools limit your options for a second major, while others might provide a specialized joint degree program to facilitate a double major. Remember that minors, concentrations, or double majors will give you more opportunities when it comes to finding computer science jobs. And, they could grant you a higher starting computer science degree salary! 

Let’s look at the programs that some of the best colleges for computer science offer their students:

Double-majoring in Computer Science

University of california—berkeley.

At Berkeley, students have two pathways to a computer science major: a BS in Computer Science through EECS (Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences) or a BA in Computer Science through CDSS (College of Computing, Data Science, and Society). Admission to EECS is much more competitive. However, if you’re focused on engineering, then this is the best route to go. If not, the BA is an excellent option. 

Cornell University

A computer science major at Cornell is required to take a three-course specialization. However, specializations are not majors—it’s simply a concentration within your major. Double majoring at another college as a CS major isn’t possible at Cornell. In fact, with the intense course load as a computer science major, the school discourages a double major for most students. 

University of Texas—Austin

The computer science major at UT Austin has plenty of options. Students can complete a BS, BSA, BA, or a specialized BS. Additionally, students can complete an Integrated BS/MS in five years. Students may also double major outside of the Computer Science college. However, they must check with the heads of those specific departments to make sure it’s possible.

Graduating from any of these best computer science schools will give students plenty of excellent computer science jobs and opportunities after graduation—even with just a Bachelor’s degree from the best colleges for computer science!

However, when it comes to double majoring, remember the answer to the question “is computer science hard?”. This is a challenging major whether attending one of the best computer science schools or not. Although the payoff is the computer science degree salary, getting there won’t be easy—especially if you double major. Carefully consider your abilities and the advice of your college counselors when making the decision. 

Internships for Computer Science Majors

Internships are an excellent way to gain experience in your area of study and learn about new computer science jobs. These experiences can even lead to computer science major jobs upon graduating. And, if nothing else, it’s a way to practice what you’ve learned in your computer science major courses. 

Let’s take a look at some possible internships that could lead to careers for computer science majors:

Information Technology

IT professionals complete a wide variety of activities. They test, build, install, repair, and maintain both the hardware and software of computer systems. As an IT intern, you’ll gain dynamic skills and learn how to problem-solve on the job. And, with so much new technology, there’s certainly no lack of demand for computer science jobs for IT professionals. 

Computer Programming Tutor

Teaching is an excellent way to internalize your learning. Additionally, you could intern as a computer programming instructor at another institution. While you may not have considered it, teaching is among the many computer science jobs. 

Web Developer

It may seem like nowadays everyone has a website. Well, those creating websites have plenty of work! As a web developer intern, you’ll gain experience in not only creating but also testing and maintaining websites. This is a great opportunity to test your communication skills as well since web developers need to be able to explain how things work to their clients. Just like most computer science jobs, there is a high demand for web developers. 

Software Development

Interested in one day creating your own app or program? Software development is probably for you then. An internship in software development will help you gain practical experience in these types of computer science jobs. You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate and work with a team, a beneficial skill for all computer science major jobs. 

IT Help Desk

This may not be the most glamorous internship, but it will truly test your critical thinking skills in many areas. As an IT help desk intern, you’ll need to provide support to help users resolve issues or complete certain actions. You’ll use your analytical abilities to fix these issues on the spot. It could help solidify what you learn in the classroom and even lead to future computer science major jobs.

Internships will help you gain practical experience for future computer science jobs. Most schools will offer resources to help you secure internships in areas where you have an interest. You might even consider computer science jobs before starting the college admissions process. Sometimes, discovering careers of interest can actually lead you to your perfect major! Either way, internships are an excellent way to learn about potential computer science jobs, whether you weed out the wrong ones, or find the perfect fit!

Computer Science Major vs. Other STEM fields

The field of computer science, and consequently computer science major jobs, falls into the category of STEM. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math and encompasses a wide variety of disciplines . Most STEM fields concentrate on one of the four aspects, but computer science contains elements of all four. Computing is a complex discipline that requires scientific inquiry and mathematical prowess, along with an understanding of the latest technological advances.

A computer science major is different from many other majors because of its emphasis on both mathematical processes (such as algorithms and programming languages) and engineering (such as hardware and software development).

Mathematics majors tend to focus on problem-solving or mathematical principles in theory. In contrast, a computer science major tends to apply mathematical concepts to concrete, practical tasks . Engineering majors mostly design hardware or apply their skills to construction projects of some kind. However, a computer science major must be able to work with both software and hardware.

Computer science major jobs, as we will see later, fall into a wide variety of categories. But first, let’s explore a few schools with some of the best computer science programs in the country.

What are the best colleges for computer science?

There are countless careers for computer science majors. However, a successful career begins with the right education. Students will need to develop certain skills in order to take on the best computer science major jobs. Therefore, they often look to apply to the best computer science schools.

The best schools for computer science can be found all over the country. However, many are found in California, the state with the largest concentration of tech and computer science jobs. Because computer science major jobs have exploded in popularity since 1960, colleges of all sizes and types have a computer science major.

Below you’ll find a list of the top 10 best colleges for computer science. More details about all the best computer science schools can be found here .

Best Computer Science Schools

1. carnegie mellon university.

Located in Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon is home to eight different schools, including a dedicated school of computer science . Students can pursue a concentration in robotics, human-computer interaction, or the emerging field of artificial intelligence. The program also offers concentrations in machine learning and computer graphics as well as a state-of-the-art robotics institute and a satellite campus in Qatar.

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Perhaps the most well-known of the best computer science schools on this list may be MIT, located in Boston. MIT has a dedicated College of Computing , offering majors in computer science, electrical engineering, and artificial intelligence. Computer science majors can also blend two different disciplines in the department to form a combined major. Additionally, students have the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in one of six different labs on campus.

3. Stanford University

One of the best computer science colleges in California is Stanford University. Their computer science program is housed within their College of Engineering. Stanford offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science . Because of its proximity to many computer science major jobs, Stanford is a gateway to many internships and computer science jobs at Silicon Valley companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Google.

4. University of California–Berkeley

Also located in California, UC Berkeley is the fourth on our list of the best colleges for computer science in the country. Their College of Computing , Data Science, and Society offers majors in computer science, data science, and statistics. Berkeley also has a strong emphasis on diversity in STEM fields. One of their goals is to open up more computer science major jobs to women and those in racial and ethnic minorities. 

5. University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign

If you’re looking for a school in the Midwest, consider UIUC in Illinois. UIUC offers several computer science major programs through the computer science division of its Granger School of Engineering. They offer an unparalleled range of options within their computer science major with 14 different pathways to blend computer science with other disciplines. Students with an interest in computer science can also explore majors like music, physics, or advertising, opening up a wide range of computer science major jobs for their graduates. 

6. Cornell University

The top Ivy League school for computer science is Cornell, located in Ithaca, NY. Students can pursue a computer science major through the College of Liberal Arts and the College of Engineering, which offers incredible flexibility for students to double major. Cornell also offers a variety of study abroad programs for students wanting to pursue computer science jobs or academic opportunities in foreign countries.

7. Georgia Institute of Technology

Atlanta, GA is home to one of the best colleges for computer science in the South. Georgia Tech offers a computer science major through its College of Computing as well as an expedited pathway toward a Master’s degree. This is a fantastic school if you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in computer science, opening the door to better computer science major jobs and a higher computer science degree salary.

8. University of Texas–Austin

Coming in eighth on our list of the best computer science schools in the country is UT Austin. The computer science major is part of the College of Natural Sciences , one of thirteen different colleges at UT Austin. Several concentrations and academic programs are available for computer science majors, including the Turing Scholars program. This program provides students with scholarships, mentors, and opportunities for computer science jobs and internships. Since this rigorous program helps jumpstart careers for computer science majors, students must have a high GPA to qualify. 

9. University of Washington

In Seattle, you’ll find the University of Washington, one of the best computer science schools in the Pacific Northwest. They offer two pathways for a computer science major, one of which adds a concentration in data sciences, a strong qualifier for many computer science major jobs. Their website offers a comprehensive list of the courses you can take in the computer science major, many of which place a focus on engineering.

10. Princeton University

Rounding out our list of the top ten best colleges for computer science is Princeton, located in New Jersey. Their department of computer science places heavy emphasis on student choice and flexibility. In fact, students can often design their own course pathways to graduate. Additionally, computer science majors must complete an independent project in either research or design. This hands-on experience is extremely beneficial, especially when it comes time to apply for computer science jobs and pursue one of the many careers for computer science majors.

Crafting a Computer Science School List

The college admissions process often begins with building a college list. For a student interested in a computer science major, it is important to make sure that the schools you are applying to can support your academic interests. Questions to ask yourself may include:

• What is a typical computer science degree salary?
• What concentrations can students in the computer science major specialize in?
• What research facilities are available to students?
• What computer science major jobs or internships does the college offer?

It’s important to make sure the schools on your college list support your extracurricular interests as well as your academic pursuits. College majors are just one part of the college experience. Therefore, you should look for schools that fit your other criteria, such as size, campus environment, and location.

Remember, just because a school made it to our best colleges for computer science list does not make it one of the best computer science schools for YOU! For more help with this process, check out this educational webinar on creating a computer science school list!

What can you do with a degree in computer science?

Because computers are a major part of our everyday life, there are more and more careers for computer science majors. In addition, these computer science jobs carry a higher computer science degree salary, even for those with only a bachelor’s degree in the field.

Computer science major jobs are in high demand and computer science jobs can be found across industries and fields. From corporate IT departments and major tech companies to engineering firms and the manufacturing sector, many are looking to hire employees with computer science skills.

Careers for computer science majors carry a wide range of titles , which we will explore more deeply in the following section. In general, computer science jobs tend to be categorized based on whether the employee works on the software or hardware of computers. Software computer science jobs tend to focus on the programming side and include, website developer, software technician, and information security analyst. Hardware computer science jobs tend to focus on designing and maintaining the actual parts of computers and include jobs such as computer hardware engineer, computer systems administrator, and IT support specialist. 

Best Computer Science Major Jobs

When deciding “is computer science a good major?”, one of the best questions to ask is what kind of computer science major jobs will this degree open up. College majors are designed to prepare students for various career fields, and the computer science major is no different. 

Below, we have compiled a list of fifteen different careers for computer science majors with a variety of education levels represented. Each of the computer science jobs has a brief description of that profession’s responsibilities.

15 Computer Science Major Jobs

1. computer and information systems manager.

The first of our careers for computer science majors is Computer and Information Systems Manager. They oversee and coordinate computer networks and divisions within a company. Typically they require a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. However, they also have the highest computer science degree salary, making around $169,000 dollars per year.

2. Computer and Information Research Scientist

One of many software computer science jobs on this list is Research Scientist. Research scientists research and investigate cutting-edge computing technologies and their applications for a company or organization. They often require a Master’s Degree and can make around $145,000 per year.

3. Database Architect

A database architect creates storage space and organizational structures for items of data. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $117,000 per year.

4. Software Developer

Software developers design programs and software that make computers run smoothly and efficiently. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $132,000 per year.

5. Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect vital information and secure data on a company’s networks or servers against hacking. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can earn around $120,000 per year. 

6. Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyze massive amounts of data to determine trends and draw conclusions. They require a Bachelor’s Degree, but a Master’s or Doctorate will improve job prospects. They make around $108,000 per year 

7. Software Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester

They work in teams with software developers to scan their programs for bugs, making sure the programs they design will work as planned! They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can earn around $102,000 per year.

8. Computer Programmer

Computer programmers use different programming languages to write scripts and codes that software developers utilize in their work. They require a Bachelor’s Degree along with knowledge of at least one programming language. Typically, they can expect to make around $99,000 per year.

9. Database Administrator

Similar to a database architect, a database administrator oversees and organizes sophisticated database networks and systems. They also require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make a similar wage of $118,000 per year.

10. Web and Digital Interface Designer

They work closely with web developers to create and maintain websites. In addition, they focus on site navigation and reliability, making sure that users can browse the website smoothly. This career requires a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $93,000 per year. 

11. Network and Computer Systems Administrator

They work with various organizations to install and maintain their computer networks. Many IT professionals work under them or on their teams. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $95,000 per year

12. Web Developer

Web developers build websites with the help of digital interface designers. They typically focus on the coding and building aspects of the project rather than the design and user-friendliness. Their academic requirements and average wage are comparable to those of digital interface designers.

13. Computer Hardware Engineer

While most of the computer science major jobs on this list work with software, hardware engineers design and maintain physical computer parts. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $138,000 per year. 

14. Systems Analyst

The second to last of our list of computer science jobs is systems analyst. Systems analysts look into how computer networks can be improved or optimized within an organization. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can make around $104,000 per year. 

15. Network Architect

The final entry in our careers for computer science majors is network architect. They build connections between computers across multiple networks and are responsible for overseeing these networks within an organization. They require a Bachelor’s Degree and can earn around $130,000 per year.

Now that we’ve discussed some of the top computer science major jobs, let’s further discuss earning potential.

How much do Computer Science Majors make?

Your computer science degree salary depends on several factors. This includes your level of education and the specific careers for computer science majors that you choose to pursue. When thinking about the question “is computer science hard?”, the high average salary for the computer science major speaks to the difficulty of this major. 

A computer science major will earn an average salary of $145,080 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . So, from a salary perspective, the answer to the question “is computer science a good major?” is emphatically, yes!

Why major in Computer Science?

College majors require significant investments of time and effort to complete. During the college admissions process, students are often asked to describe why they want to pursue the major they are interested in. Students wondering, “is computer science a good major for me?”, should consider reflecting on the reasons they want to pursue a computer science major. Here are five potential reasons that answer “is computer science a good major to pursue?”:

Reasons to Be a Computer Science Major

You have an interest in computers.

You may be interested in a computer science major if you have taken and enjoyed a computer science class in high school. More and more schools are offering computer science classes at the secondary level so students can determine if they want to go on to a computer science major in college. A computer science major allows you to build on that interest and expand your knowledge.

You want to pursue computer science major jobs

A computer science major shows potential future employers that you have the skills and qualifications to pursue careers for computer science majors. Companies looking to hire computer science professionals know that the answer to the question “is computer science hard?” is a resounding yes. So, they are looking for competent computer science majors to fill those challenging positions.

You want a high earning potential in a growing career field

A high computer science degree salary is one of many motivations for students to pursue a computer science major. One of the answers to “why is computer science a good major?” is that jobs for these majors are increasing, while they are decreasing in other fields. Computer science jobs are not only high-paying, but also available in a variety of industries.

You want to research and explore technological innovations

From artificial intelligence to big data, computer science majors are at the forefront of new advances in computer technology. When thinking about “is computer science hard?”, consider that computer science majors develop answers to complex questions regarding information and programming. Computer science major jobs are in charge of important issues like information security and making sure these technologies are deployed responsibly.

You want to do work that is meaningful and will make a difference

Computer science jobs can do so much good in the world. Is computer science hard? Yes. But, you can earn a high computer science degree salary while entering a field that is becoming increasingly important to individuals and corporations. Computers are an essential part of modern life. Consequently, computer science major jobs are essential as well.

Best Colleges for Computer Science: Final Thoughts

In this article, we discussed various aspects of the computer science major and computer science major jobs. We began with the questions “is computer science a good major?” and “is computer science hard?” (The answer to both is, yes!) Then, we explored top programs as well as potential jobs and their typical computer science degree salary.

While a computer science major is both difficult and demanding, the high computer science degree salary and the rewarding benefits of computer science jobs make the challenges well worth it. Students interested in a computer science major should think about applying to the best colleges for computer sciences, starting with a college list of schools that fit their criteria.

It also helps to research computer science jobs and what computer science degree salary you could earn. This will depend on the level of education you pursue and the concentration within computer science you decide to go into. As you ask questions like “is computer science hard?” or “what are the best computer science schools for me?”, know that CollegeAdvisor.com is here to help! We can assist you at any stage of the college admissions process, from selecting your college majors to building your college list to writing your admissions essays. Sign up here to get started!

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski and Alex Baggott-Rowe. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Essays and Short Answer Prompts

The Penn application process includes a personal essay —which is sent to most schools you apply to—as well as a few short answer prompts . We read your words carefully, as they are yet another window into how you think, what you value, and how you see the world. Through your writing, we get a glimpse of what you might bring to our community—including your voice and creativity. 

Remember, you are the expert on your story. This is an opportunity for you to reflect and understand who you are now, and who you want to be in the future. You have the agency to choose the information you want to share. This is your story: your experiences, your ideas, your perspective.   

A Few Writing Tips

• Review the prompts thoroughly.  Be sure you’re answering the question or prompt being asked. Topics are chosen because the Admissions Committee wants to know specific things about you. If you don’t address them directly, we are left to make decisions regarding your application with incomplete information. 
• Consider your response carefully.  We understand that you may be writing responses for different schools and you may want to reuse material, but be sure to read through your response to make sure it is relevant to the prompt. 
• Double-check your writing.  Give yourself time to revisit your response. Try to avoid rushing your writing process so you have time to revise your work. Ultimately, it is up to you to polish and proofread your writing before you submit. 
• Do your research. Are there classes you’re eager to take? Research opportunities you’d love to pursue? A group or club you want to be a part of? This kind of specificity shows us you’re serious about Penn and have thought about how you’d spend your time here. 

2024-25 Short Answer and Essay Prompts

When answering these prompts, be precise when explaining both why you are applying to Penn and why you have chosen to apply to that specific undergraduate school. Some of our specialized programs will have additional essays to complete, but the  Penn short answer prompts should address your single-degree or single-school choice.  

• Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge. (We encourage you to share this note with that person, if possible, and reflect on the experience!) (150-200 words, only required for first-year applicants) 
• How will you explore community at Penn? Consider how Penn will help shape your perspective, and how your experiences and perspective will help shape Penn. (150-200 words) 
• The school-specific prompt is unique to the school to which you are applying. (For example, all applicants applying to the College of Arts and Sciences will respond to the prompt under the “College of Arts and Sciences” section). Considering the undergraduate school you have selected for your single-degree option, please respond to your school-specific prompt below.  

Transfer Essay (required for all transfer applicants): Please explain your reasons for transferring from your current institution and what you hope to gain by transferring to another institution. (4150 characters) 

Undergraduate School-Specific Short Answer Prompts

For students applying to coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer this question about your single-degree school choice; your interest in the coordinated dual-degree or specialized program may be addressed through the program-specific essay.  

Penn Nursing intends to meet the health needs of a global, multicultural world by preparing its students to impact healthcare through advancing science. How will you contribute to our mission of promoting equity in healthcare and how will Penn Nursing contribute to your future nursing goals? (150-200 words)

To help inform your response, applicants are encouraged to learn more about Penn Nursing’s mission and how we promote equity in healthcare here . This information will help you develop a stronger understanding of our values and how they align with your own goals and aspirations.

The flexible structure of The College of Arts and Sciences’ curriculum is designed to inspire exploration, foster connections, and help you create a path of study through general education courses and a major. What are you curious about and how would you take advantage of opportunities in the arts and sciences? (150-200 words) 

To help inform your response, applicants are encouraged to learn more about the  academic offerings within the College of Arts and Sciences .  This information will help you develop a stronger understanding of how the study of the liberal arts aligns with your own goals and aspirations. 

Wharton prepares its students to make an impact by applying business methods and economic theory to real-world problems, including economic, political, and social issues.  Please reflect on a current issue of importance to you and share how you hope a Wharton education would help you to explore it.  (150-200 words) 

To help inform your response, applicants are encouraged to learn more about  the foundations of a Wharton education . This information will help you better understand what you could learn by studying at Wharton and what you could do afterward. 

Penn Engineering prepares its students to become leaders in technology by combining a strong foundation in the natural sciences and mathematics with depth of study in focused disciplinary majors. Please share how you plan to pursue your engineering interests at Penn. (150-200 words)

To help inform your response, applicants are encouraged to learn more about Penn Engineering and its mission to prepare students for global leadership in technology here . This information will help you develop a stronger understanding of academic pathways within Penn Engineering and how they align with your goals and interests.

Coordinated Dual Degree and Specialized Program Essay Prompts

For students applying to coordinated dual-degree and specialized programs, please answer the program-specific essay below. 

** Numbers marked with double asterisks indicate a character count that only applies to transfer students applying through Common App.  

Discuss how your interests align with the Digital Media Design (DMD) program at the University of Pennsylvania? (400-650 words / 3575 characters**)

We encourage you to learn more about the DMD: Digital Media Design Program .

The Huntsman Program supports the development of globally minded scholars who become engaged citizens, creative innovators, and ethical leaders in the public, private, and non-profit sectors in the United States and internationally. What draws you to a dual-degree program in business and international studies, and how would you use what you learn to contribute to a global issue where business and international affairs intersect? (400-650 words) 

The LSM program aims to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the life sciences and their management with an eye to identifying, advancing, and implementing innovations. What issues would you want to address using the understanding gained from such a program? Note that this essay should be distinct from your single degree essay. (400-650 words) 

• Explain how you will use the M&T program to explore your interest in business, engineering, and the intersection of the two. (400-650 words) 
• Describe a problem that you solved that showed leadership and creativity. (250 words) 

Discuss your interest in nursing and health care management. How might Penn's coordinated dual-degree program in nursing and business help you meet your goals? (400-650 words) 

How do you envision your participation in the Vagelos Integrated Program in Energy Research (VIPER) furthering your interests in energy science and technology? Please include any past experiences (ex. academic, research, or extracurricular) that have led to your interest in the program. Additionally, please indicate why you are interested in pursuing dual degrees in science and engineering and which VIPER majors are most interesting to you at this time. (400-650 words) 

Sharing Additional Information

To be your own best advocate, you may give our Admissions Committee more context about you by sharing additional information in your college application. While this is not required, it can help give admissions officers a fuller picture of who you are if you are concerned about any missing information or context. Consider the following guiding questions as you decide to share any additional information:

• Is there additional context you want to provide about how your time is spent outside of the classroom?
• Do you have a long commute to school, or responsibilities within your home or community that may prevent you from engaging in certain activities?
• Has there been a big change in your life that has impacted your grades or participation in activities?
• Is there missing context about your school that you want to provide? 

Home — Essay Samples — Information Science and Technology — Computer Science — Why I Want to Study Computer Science

Why I Want to Study Computer Science

• Categories: Computer Science Education Goals

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Words: 606 |

Published: Aug 31, 2023

Words: 606 | Page: 1 | 4 min read

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A passion for problem-solving, fascination with innovation, impactful applications, interdisciplinary connections, personal growth and fulfillment, conclusion: a path of passion and purpose.

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Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science

Undergraduate programs, undergraduate majors.

The School of Computer Science offers five bachelor's degrees.

• Artificial Intelligence
• Computational Biology
• Computer Science
• Human-Computer Interaction

Interdisciplinary majors in computer science and the arts , and music and technology are also available. Admission to all bachelor of science programs in SCS are administered through the Carnegie Mellon Office of Undergraduate Admission . Students accepted into SCS as first-year students are undeclared until the middle of their second semester. At that time, students will select one of the four available primary SCS majors. Note: acceptance into some majors may be limited due to course and resource constraints. Program objectives are available in our computer science , artificial intelligence , computational biology and human-computer interaction curriculum maps.

Undergraduate Additional Majors

SCS offers additional majors in computational biology , computer science , human-computer interaction and robotics . Students wishing to earn an additional SCS major must meet the requirements for their primary major as well as their additional major as defined by the department overseeing the additional major. Students should consult with the director or administrator of the additional major for more information on requirements and double-counting rules.

Undergraduate Minors

The School of Computer Science offers eight undergraduate minors. Accepted and enrolled undergraduate students interested in a minor should contact their academic advisor for more information.

IDeATe: Technology, Design and Arts Study

Carnegie Mellon's diverse and top-ranked departments in computing, engineering, design and arts are uniquely positioned to serve students who have interdisciplinary interests bridging technology and creative practice. The IDeATe curriculum and minors connect students and faculty from across the university through coursework and collaborative studio experiences. As a CMU computer science student, you will have the opportunity to integrate in your degree a minor in one of nine creative industry areas: game design, animation and special effects, media design, design for learning, sonic arts, innovation and entrepreneurship, intelligent environments, physical computing, or soft technologies.

Get To Know Us

• Meet Our Dean
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College-Wide Programs

• Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence
• Minor in Artificial Intelligence

Programs by Department

Ray and stephanie lane computational biology department.

• Bachelor of Science in Computational Biology
• Additional Major in Computational Biology
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• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
• Additional Major in Computer Science
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• Bachelor of Science in Human-Computer Interaction
• Additional Major in Human-Computer Interaction
• Minor in Human-Computer Interaction

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• Minor in Language Technologies

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• Minor in Machine Learning

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The Sunday Read: ‘The Kidnapping I Can’t Escape’

Fifty years ago, her father’s friend was taken at gunpoint on long island. then he went on with his life — and that’s the part that haunts her..

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On Nov. 12, 1974, Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s father’s childhood friend Jack Teich was kidnapped out of his driveway in the nicest part of the nicest part of Long Island. He was arriving home from work when two men forced him into their car at gunpoint and took him to a house where they chained and interrogated him.

On the second day of his kidnapping, Jack’s wife, Janet, received a call from someone demanding a ransom of $750,000, and a few days later, Janet and Jack’s brother Buddy dropped the money off at Penn Station under F.B.I. surveillance. The F.B.I. did not catch the kidnapper, but afterward, he decided to let Jack go.

Jack was home safe. He had survived his kidnapping. But the actual kidnapping is not what this story is about, if you can believe it. It’s about surviving what you survived, which is also known as the rest of your life.

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