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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around course selection for geology majors, specifically the choice between engineering calculus and physics with calculus versus their non-calculus counterparts. Participants explore the implications of these choices on preparedness and skill development in geology.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether taking calculus-based courses is necessary for becoming a skilled geologist, expressing concern about preparedness if opting for non-calculus versions.
  • Another participant argues that while engineering calculus and calc-based physics are not strictly required, they are beneficial for mastering scientific concepts, suggesting that deviating from the recommended path may not be wise.
  • Some participants emphasize the importance of consulting senior faculty for guidance on course selection, indicating that faculty advice could provide valuable insights.
  • Several participants inquire about specific interests within geology, noting that different subfields may have varying requirements and emphases on mathematical rigor.
  • One participant suggests that if there is any interest in geophysics, taking engineering calculus and physics with calculus is advisable, and even recommends pursuing additional math courses.
  • Another participant, who has not yet started major courses, expresses enthusiasm for oceanography and plate tectonics, indicating a desire to explore various topics within geology.
  • There is a suggestion that seeking advice from academic advisers or faculty members is preferable to relying solely on forum discussions for course selection guidance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether to prioritize calculus-based courses or if non-calculus options are sufficient. Multiple competing views remain regarding the necessity and benefits of different math courses in relation to geology.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of experience with geology and course selection, which may influence their perspectives. There is an acknowledgment that different areas of geology may have distinct requirements, but specific details on these requirements are not fully explored.

JR Sauerland
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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?
 
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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.
 
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Dr. Courtney said:
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.
 
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.
 
Bystander said:
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
 
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.
 
JR Sauerland said:
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.
 

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