Computer Science and Philosophy Hertford College, University of Oxford 1
Computer Science Exciting Students to Consider a Wonderful Degree Option Professor Peter Millican Faculties of Computer Science and Philosophy Hertford College, University of Oxford 1. Degree Choice for the Mathematically Able Student Five Important Points Do not assume that school subjects will be the same at university (e.g. Maths, Languages). Consider other options, not just those you have encountered at school (e.g. Philosophy, Computer Science, Engineering). It’s fun to learn new and varied things. Bear in mind that your interests can change! A joint degree is often worth more in the job- market, because it demonstrates flexibility. Why Do You Like Mathematics? If you are really good at school Maths, and enjoy it a lot, then ask yourself why you enjoy it: – Because you think it will be useful in your life? – Because you like the kudos of being good at it? – Because you get a buzz solving problems? – Because you love intellectual exercises, even if they prove very hard to solve? – Because you need Mathematics to understand other things (e.g. Physics, Economics)? – Because you’re fascinated by abstract mathematical structures? Computer Science: Why? Computers Shape the Future – They’re everywhere, and constantly gaining ground in every field of life. – Understanding their potential, and knowing how to use them effectively, is personally empowering, economically valuable, and opens huge creative potential. – But developing new computer applications raises all these benefits to a radically different level. It’s also creative in itself, and great fun! Future Value and Careers Programming is a Transferable Skill. – “Computer languages” are not like natural languages that take years to master: once you have learned to think algorithmically, you can easily apply this in different contexts.
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