Compare two majors
Pick any two majors to see courses, skills, and typical career roles side by side. Useful if you're weighing two options that sound similar, like Computer Science vs. Data Science, or Biology vs. Biochemistry.
Physical Sciences & Math
Mathematics
The study of patterns, structures, and logical proof.
Typical courses
- ✓Calculus I, II, III
- ✓Linear Algebra
- ✓Differential Equations
- ✓Abstract Algebra
- ✓Real Analysis
- ✓Probability & Statistics
Skills you'll build
Rigorous logical reasoning and proof-writingAbstract problem-solvingQuantitative modelingPrecision and attention to detailPersistence with long, multi-step problemsClear mathematical writing and argumentationFoundational skills transferable to programming and data analysis
Good fit if you...
- ★Enjoys the 'why' behind math, not just the calculation
- ★Comfortable with abstract thinking and formal proof
- ★Patient and persistent with difficult, multi-step problems
- ★Interested in fields that use math as a core tool (finance, CS, engineering, research)
Roles this could lead to
Physical Sciences & Math
Statistics & Data Analytics
Making sense of data and uncertainty using rigorous methods.
Typical courses
- ✓Probability Theory
- ✓Statistical Inference
- ✓Regression Analysis
- ✓Statistical Computing (R/Python)
- ✓Experimental Design
- ✓Applied Data Analysis
Skills you'll build
Statistical modeling and inferenceProgramming for data analysisExperimental designInterpreting and communicating uncertaintyData visualizationCritical evaluation of studies and claimsWorking with real, messy datasets
Good fit if you...
- ★Enjoys math applied to real, messy data
- ★Curious about evidence, uncertainty, and how conclusions are drawn
- ★Comfortable with both theory and hands-on computing
- ★Interested in research, business analytics, or data-driven fields generally
Roles this could lead to
This comparison covers what each field of study typically includes. It's not a ranking, and it isn't a guarantee of course availability or outcomes at any specific school. See our disclaimer.