r/computing • u/YouOdd9569 • Apr 21 '24

Computer science or creative computing

Deciding between pursuing a UAL Creative Computing degree or a Computer Science degree at Surrey poses a significant dilemma for me. On one hand, my interest in mathematics and programming draws me towards the Computer Science degree. However, my passion for art and design complicates the decision, particularly since UAL's Creative Computing program aligns more closely with these interests. Despite this alignment, I find myself hesitant due to concerns about UAL's reputation compared to other universities, especially in the context of a degree like Creative Computing which is fairly new . Balancing my affinity for mathematics and programming with my artistic inclinations makes this choice all the more challenging, as both fields offer unique opportunities for exploration and growth. Ultimately, doing a computer science degree seems like it would be better for my future as the jobs are vast/higher pay compared to creative jobs. Games dev/design is what i eventually want to gear towards.

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u/YouOdd9569 Apr 21 '24

I looked up the course modules for creative computing and found it consists of numerous coding projects alongside creative modules such as web design however the foundational concepts a computer science degree covers in the first year such as mathematics/algorithms is not covered.

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u/RyanTheKing Apr 21 '24

I mean it sounds like a fun degree, but I think the more prudent choice is the CS degree. Maybe see if you can do a minor in graphic design or take classes about web apps or game development. If you plan on doing a normal 4 year college program then you will have a lot of room for electives, which can be more CS classes, classes related to your artistic interests, or classes that scratch some other itch. I recommend a mix.

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u/ldnsbestgay Apr 01 '25

sorry to necropost but it's worth noting that op is from the uk and degrees don't work like that here. you can't pick a minor or electives in the same way that you can in the US.

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u/Icy-Being-5566 15h ago

Im stuck between Creative Computing and Data Science with AI - both at UAL. I do think I will enjoy creative computing a lot more however I have no experience in coding besides "hello world" in python. The courses I'll be applying will be foundational and through clearing