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Not Just Code: How Interdisciplinary Majors Unlock New Career Paths
- seededu2020
- Feb 3
- 8 min read
In recent years, Computer Science (CS) and related disciplines in major engineering schools have been the focus of attention for both parents and students. As the core of modern technology, Computer Science not only drives the progress of popular fields like Artificial Intelligence and Big Data but also lays the foundation for numerous high-paying careers. Studying CS not only guarantees job security but also helps students enter the forefront of technological development, keeping pace with the trends of the times.
However, competition for CS programs is exceptionally fierce, especially in top engineering schools, where admission requirements are particularly strict. Many students focus on improving their STEM grades, winning computer science awards, and participating in robotics activities, only to be unable to enter their dream schools. Moreover, with the groundbreaking developments in artificial intelligence, the skill of “coding” no longer necessarily guarantees a golden future.
In fact, if a child has a strong interest in computer science, parents may consider a more flexible and developmental option—combining Computer Science with another discipline.
Currently, many universities in the U.S. have introduced interdisciplinary undergraduate programs in “Computer Science + Other Disciplines” (CS+X). These programs not only meet students’ diverse interests but also cultivate multi-disciplinary skills, making students more competitive in an ever-changing job market.
What’s more, this interdisciplinary trend aligns perfectly with future workplace demands. Many industries are looking for talent with both technical backgrounds and expertise in other fields. If a child is also passionate about areas such as arts, music, or linguistics, choosing these interdisciplinary programs can open up more career opportunities. It can also make the learning process more enriching, promote innovative thinking, and foster multi-faceted development, giving their future more possibilities.
This article will cover:
Representative CS+X Programs
The following universities have CS+X programs. Click on one of the school names to learn more about each school's unique CS+X program.
*Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of all universities that offer CS+X programs.
University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
CS + Arts + Media
The Digital Media Design (DMD) program at the University of Pennsylvania combines computer science, arts, and communications. This program is part of UPenn’s School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS), so while students have access to many art courses, they ultimately earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering.
Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Computer Science: Core courses include programming, algorithms, computer graphics, and artificial intelligence.
Fine Arts: Courses cover digital design, painting, and visual arts, helping students develop artistic skills.
Communications: Students study media theory and the impact of digital technology on society.
The uniqueness of the DMD program lies in its combination of a solid technical foundation with art and media. The rigorous curriculum and abundant resources make it one of the most prestigious programs of its kind. Graduates can find career opportunities in media, entertainment, and technology industries that align with their interests.
SEED Admission Case
This application season, SEED Education partner student J was successfully admitted to UPenn’s Digital Media Design (DMD) program.
J is a student from a high school in the Bay Area. His interests have always been broad, starting with painting and piano lessons at the age of five. He learned programming in middle school. In high school, he became interested in finance and started his own Wall Street Club. Like most teenagers, he also enjoys playing games. SEED teachers have worked with J for several years, starting early on his college planning and supporting him in exploring different fields. After getting to know him better, SEED teachers recognized that among his many interests, CS and Arts were essential to his life. So, in 11th grade, we applied for the CMU High School Game Academy summer program, which J really enjoyed. The experience gave him a clearer understanding of his desired major and confirmed his direction in CS+Arts. He said, “Programming is not just about technology; it’s a form of creative art.”
Before starting the application process, we conducted detailed research on schools and compared many “CS+” programs. Ultimately, we decided that UPenn’s DMD program was the best fit for J. We submitted his application via Early Decision and highlighted his diverse interests in his personal statement, emphasizing his love for creative expression and how he combines art and technology to help others. Additionally, we guided J in enhancing his art portfolio, which he submitted as supplementary materials. In the end, J was accepted into UPenn with an Ivy League offer.
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
CS+Arts, CS+Music, CS+Biology
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is a world-leading institution in computer science. Not only does it have an exceptional reputation in pure computer science and engineering, but it also leads in interdisciplinary curriculum development. In addition to the Computer Science and Arts program, CMU offers a variety of interdisciplinary programs, such as Music & Technology and Computational Biology.
The Computer Science and Arts program combines the strengths of CMU’s School of Computer Science (SCS) and the College of Fine Arts (CFA), aiming to nurture students who can creatively work at the intersection of technology and art. Students learn foundational computer science topics like programming, artificial intelligence, data structures, and computer graphics, while also engaging with digital arts, game design, animation, and virtual reality (VR).
The Music and Technology program is designed for students passionate about music who wish to innovate in music composition through computer technology. It involves collaboration between the School of Computer Science (SCS), College of Fine Arts (CFA), and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE). Courses cover topics such as sound synthesis, audio engineering, and digital instrument design. Students learn about digital audio processing, music programming, and electronic music production while gaining insight into the artistic nature of music creation. CMU offers plenty of practical opportunities, including music production labs and interdisciplinary collaboration projects, allowing students to continuously explore and expand their creativity and skills.
Computational Biology focuses on applying computational technologies to solve biological and biomedical problems, such as genomics, drug development, and bioinformatics. The curriculum is a significant departure from traditional biology, as students also learn programming, algorithms, and data structures to analyze and interpret biological data. CMU’s state-of-the-art computational biology labs provide unique opportunities for students to integrate cutting-edge computer science with biology, participating in groundbreaking research in areas such as genomics, structural biology, and systems biolog
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC)
CS+X Multiple Disciplines
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has gained significant attention for its outstanding engineering programs in recent years. It has climbed from around 50th in the U.S. News rankings before 2020 to 33rd in 2024. The Computer Science (CS) program has consistently ranked among the top in the U.S., excelling in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, and human-computer interaction, attracting an increasing number of applicants.
UIUC offers a wide range of CS+X programs, which cover core computer science courses while also offering numerous interdisciplinary options. The range of these programs is vast, and nearly every student can find a program that matches their interests. While the acceptance rate for UIUC’s CS+X programs is 18.1%, which is highly competitive, it still offers more opportunities compared to the traditional CS program’s 7.2% acceptance rate.
It is worth mentioning that students in the CS+X programs enjoy the same resources and opportunities as students in the traditional CS program, including high-quality faculty, research resources, participation in career fairs, and involvement in computer science research and academic activities. Additionally, the interdisciplinary background of CS+X students gives them a unique competitive edge in various fields. For students interested in UIUC’s CS program, we recommend exploring these interdisciplinary options and choosing based on their academic and extracurricular backgrounds.
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)
CS + Business
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is a private research university that emphasizes interdisciplinary education and consistently ranks among the top 20 schools in the U.S. Its business, medical, law, and computer science programs are all highly regarded. As a result, the university’s Business and Computer Science program aims to cultivate interdisciplinary talent who understand both technology and business—exactly what the modern job market demands.
The curriculum includes core courses in computer science and business management, as well as electives that combine both fields, such as business analysis, tech entrepreneurship, and finance and technology. Students delve into how technology and business strategy can be integrated and gain practical experience through projects and internships, developing problem-solving skills. Graduates of the CS+Business program will possess technical expertise in computer science and a solid foundation in business principles. This combination of skills is highly valuable in today’s technology-driven economy.
Other Universities
Of course, many more universities are jumping on the interdisciplinary education bandwagon. For example, Ivy League schools like Yale have launched several CS-integrated courses, MIT offers a dual degree in CS and Economics, and universities in California provide similar CS+ programs. We hope this introduction to some representative programs will inspire you and help your child explore the most suitable academic path for their interests.
What to Pay Attention to When Applying for CS+X Programs?
Clarify Your Interests and Focus
Choose the Right “X”
The “X” in CS+ programs can be business, biology, economics, music, linguistics, and many other fields. Think carefully about which discipline complements your interest in computer science. You need to have a genuine passion for both subjects and their combination. Additionally, different interdisciplinary programs at various universities often have different course structures and research directions, and may lead to different degrees. It’s crucial to research each school’s specific program content and their requirements for applicants.
Showcase a Strong Personal Motivation in Your Application Materials
Be prepared to clearly explain why and how you want to combine computer science with another discipline. Admissions officers want to understand how this interdisciplinary combination aligns with your academic and career aspirations.
Strengthen Your Foundation in Computer Science and Mathematics
Even if you want to pursue a CS+ program in the humanities or social sciences, CS+ programs still require applicants to have a solid foundation in computer science, as well as strong performance in mathematics. It’s essential to take advanced mathematics courses in high school and engage in real-world programming projects, whether through summer programs, personal projects, or internships.
Demonstrate Critical Thinking Skills
Interdisciplinary Problem Solving: One significant advantage of CS+ programs is the ability to approach problems from multiple perspectives. Admissions officers are looking for students who can identify and solve complex problems, so you need to demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Innovation: CS+ programs typically expect students to come up with innovative solutions that blend technology with other industries. Start preparing examples of how you have used technology to solve problems in other fields, or think about how technology will impact the future of these fields.
Highlight Your Strengths in Your Essays
Essays, whether the main personal statement or supplementary school-specific essays, are the best opportunity to show how you stand out and why you’re suited for interdisciplinary learning. Tell an interesting, insightful, and deeply reflective story that highlights your values, enthusiasm for both disciplines, and unique personality. Admissions officers prefer seeing specific experiences and details that demonstrate your actual involvement and thinking in both fields. At the same time, interdisciplinary studies often require students to make decisions and solve problems from diverse perspectives and collaborate with people from different backgrounds. Show that you are someone who cares about others, has a team spirit, and is ready to engage in such challenges. This is essential.
Conclusion
With the rapid development of technology and the deep integration of disciplines, more and more universities are launching similar “CS+X” interdisciplinary programs, offering students more diverse learning options. These interdisciplinary programs not only help students build bridges between multiple fields but also open up more career possibilities. As industry demands continue to evolve, the combination of interdisciplinary skills and knowledge is gradually becoming a highly sought-after advantage in the job market.
To fully take advantage of these opportunities, students and parents must recognize the importance of early planning and thorough research. Choosing the right interdisciplinary program for oneself, understanding each university’s curriculum, application requirements, depth of subject integration, and future career prospects is essential. Planning ahead for relevant subject backgrounds and skill development will help students stand out in the competitive landscape.