As a geology major, I picking classes....

[JR Sauerland]

Here are the required courses. I'll explain my options:

• Engineering calc 1/2 or Life Sciences calc 1/2
• Physics with calc1/2 or physics without calc 1/2

Basically, that's my whole dilemma. Do I want Engineering Calc and Physics with calc, or without? Like does it make me any less skilled or less prepared to be a Geologist if I take the math without it?

 

[Dr. Courtney]

Real scientists know calculus and how to think about every problem they encounter with the tools of calculus and the ideas of instantaneous rate of change and acculumation of area under a curve.

Engineering calculus and calc-based physics are not required to achieve that level of mastery, but they certainly will help achieve that end.

Why deviate from the recommended path by taking the lower road? What is the advice of the senior faculty in the geology department? I'm sure they would be happy to talk about it if you stop by their offices or send a polite email.

 

[JR Sauerland]

Real scientists know calculus and how to think about every problem they encounter with the tools of calculus and the ideas of instantaneous rate of change and acculumation of area under a curve.

Engineering calculus and calc-based physics are not required to achieve that level of mastery, but they certainly will help achieve that end.

Why deviate from the recommended path by taking the lower road? What is the advice of the senior faculty in the geology department? I'm sure they would be happy to talk about it if you stop by their offices or send a polite email.

Hm, never saw this message. I guess you have a very good point there! I suppose it offers an alternative to those weak of heart to the math world that want that science degree still.

 

[Bystander]

Do you have any particular focus/interests? Oceanography? Soil science? Mineralogy/petrology? Geophysics? Plate tectonics? (Micro)Paleontology/stratigraphy? Geochem?
You'll probably be happier in the long run biting off everything you can chew, but do keep in mind that different areas place different emphases on levels and rigor of fundamental requirements.

 

[JR Sauerland]

Do you have any particular focus/interests? Oceanography? Soil science? Mineralogy/petrology? Geophysics? Plate tectonics? (Micro)Paleontology/stratigraphy? Geochem?
You'll probably be happier in the long run biting off everything you can chew, but do keep in mind that different areas place different emphases on levels and rigor of fundamental requirements.

I haven't even started my major courses yet (or even applied to the program), but I know it's what I want to do. I've taken an oceanography course, loved it. And I love Plate tectonics

 

[jbrussell93]

If you believe you might be interested in geophysics even in the slightest, definitely take the engineering calc and physics with calc. You might even want to take more math like Calc 3 and Differential Equation.

 

[ZapperZ]

I haven't even started my major courses yet (or even applied to the program), but I know it's what I want to do. I've taken an oceanography course, loved it. And I love Plate tectonics

You really should either see your academic adviser or a faculty member FIRST, rather than asking about it on forum like this. These people not only know about the field and the state of the field, but are also familiar with the academic atmosphere of your school, something that we don't know of.

Zz.