Computer Science + Maths: Oxford vs Cambridge?

Hi guys,

I'm in Year 13 with the UCAS early entry deadline due in precisely two weeks. As of until a few days ago I have been set on applying to Oxford for the Maths and CS degree. My rationale for this was that I would prefer the subject split of the 'and' degrees (i.e. 50/50). However I am now considering the Cambridge CS degree, specifically the CS with Maths option. Having done a fair few of Cambridge's STEP support modules for STEP 1 and 2, I feel comfortable with them. I have also begun looking at CSAT, perhaps it should be noted that my pure maths is stronger than my discrete/algorithmic/logical-esque maths and so I might be better suited to the MAT?

Since AS levels have been scrapped (for me anyway), will Cambridge still shortlist applicants for interview based on some other metric (i.e. raw marks in my A-Level Maths that I sat in Year 12 as I am doing FMaths)? I have 10 A*s at GCSE.

Moreover I feel that in a hypothetical situation where I have offers from both Oxford and Imperial, I would be happy accepting either. However were I to hold Cambridge and Imperial offers I would be inclined towards Cambridge.

Sorry about the long post, any input would be much appreciated

TL;DR - Idk whether to apply Ox or Cam for Math+CS help me pl0x

The two degrees are rather different. The Oxford degree is joint Maths & CS throughout the degree (you can specialise a bit in the third year, and can specialise completely in the fourth year if you want). On the other hand, the Cambridge degree is joint only in the first year, and subsequently straight CS.

You should decide which degree suits you better, and choose on that basis. It would be a mistake to choose by trying to guess where you'd have a better chance.

Gavin

Thanks for the reply. As stated in my inital post I would prefer an even split between Math and CS, I suppose I was considering Cambridge due to its reputation as being 'better' than Oxford for Math/CS. Tbh I think I will stick to my guns and apply to Oxford. Cheers again.

That sounds like the best decision for you, although I'm biased. Good luck on the MAT.

Cheers Did you go to Oxford yourself?

The two degrees are rather different. The Oxford degree is joint Maths & CS throughout the degree (you can specialise a bit in the third year, and can specialise completely in the fourth year if you want). On the other hand, the Cambridge degree is joint only in the first year, and subsequently straight CS.

You should decide which degree suits you better, and choose on that basis. It would be a mistake to choose by trying to guess where you'd have a better chance.

Gavin

Professor , how are maths interviews for the joint degree conducted ? Is there a emphasis on discrete maths?

Not particularly. Maths tutors need to be sure that you have the mathematical skills necessary to do well in the maths part of the degree. There might be a bit of an emphasis on pure maths, rather than applied maths, reflecting the emphasis in the degree.

Gavin

Thank you for your response professor.

Just wnted to know- l I looked at the Maths + CompSci page and the CompSci page. There were separate modules for discrete maths and continuous maths in the first year for CompSci . Are these courses not taught to Maths + CompSci students because they would be covering it in depth?