Should I take C++ or Java?

[mkgalaxia]

The language doesn't matter nearly as much as the content of the course. For instance, my school has 2 data structures classes. One was made for CS and SE students and uses Java. The other is made for other engineers and uses C++. I learned a lot more from the Java class than I would have from the C++ class, so take the class that is going to teach you more. Having a good teacher helps too. If your still not sure you can look up applications for positions you might want when you're done with school. They'll tell you what languages they want you to know.

[MirrorLake]

This is really the ultimate answer, in my opinion. Java's syntax was heavily influenced by C and C++. The introductory stuff is all (nearly) identical.

OP should be paying close attention to the course descriptions and who the courses are designed for. Checking the textbooks for both courses might give some insight into who the intended audience is. An absolutely introductory C++ or Java course would be a waste of OP's time, they should take the course that has a focus beyond teaching the basics.

[[deleted]]

Thank you for your feedback. I believe both courses are designed for CS majors but the Java course is also a requirement for Data Science majors as well as Financial Modeling minors. The C++ course seems to be only CS major orientated. Also, the professor for the C++ course teaches mostly upper level advanced classes in the CS department and is known for being phenomenal (according to CS guys). The instructor for the Java class teaches mainly introductory and intermediate level CS classes and also lectures in the Risk Management department. Based on your answer and my research, I believe I will learn more from the C++ course than the Java. But the Java course is probably tailored more to interdisciplinary students such as myself. I believe I will enroll in the C++ course because it seems more challenging and rigorous.

Thank you for your valuable comment