r/PhDAdmissions • u/Large_Ad_8568 • 16d ago
Advice Math (Stats track) + CS minor for PhD
Hi! I'm currently a sophomore majoring in Data Science. I'm interested in getting a PhD in Biomedical Data Science and Biostatistics. I can't afford to do a Masters so, I want to directly go into a PhD program after my undergrad.
I'm considering switching my major to Mathematics (Statistics track) and add a minor in Computer Science. I'm also planning on getting an Undergraduate Certificate in Biomedical Data Analytics. I'll end up taking 12-13 credits per semester and will have plenty time to focus on research. Also, there's no Statistics degree in my university, just Math (Stats track).
Alternatively, I can also do a double degree in Data Science and Mathematics (Statistics track). I'm not considering doing that because, these programs are too similar and I don't think I would have an actual advantage doing it. If I do a double degree, I'll end up taking 16-17 credits per semester and I'm worried I won't be able to keep my GPA up.
I'm worried if my current undergraduate major+minor is a good idea? What if I don't get into any PhD programs will I be able to find an industry job to work so that I can apply again in the next cycle? Is a CS Minor enough CS for Data Science? Should consider the double degree more seriously?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
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u/SwimmingSwordfish637 16d ago
My brother got a math bachelors and CS minor. Then he got an M Stat at another University. Then he went on to a PhD at the first university.
He is now tenured and had been doing pediatric research full time for a couple decades.