Differential Equations or Number Theory for Computer Science?

[sschmiggles]

I'm getting ready to register for classes for the fall. To make a long story short, I might have to take another math class to satisfy a degree requirement, rather than a computer science class.

I'm taking Linear Algebra right now. I enjoy it, and it seems to have a lot of practical applications.

Next semester, I have two options: differential equations or number theory. Which do you think would be a better choice for my career, in terms of building a knowledge base? I'd like to work for a company that does a lot of scientific research. I don't mind writing code for business or anything like that, but I'm really interested in science. Differential equations would strike me as more useful for science.

Number theory seems more like pure mathematics. On the other hand, that might help me understand a lot of computer science concepts better.

What's your opinion? I can add more information about these courses if you want it.

 

[daveyinaz]

I doubt either of them are going to matter very much past school but I would suggest diff. eq. since the first course on number theory is usually doing some useless things such as finding the number of solutions for $$x^3 + y^3 = z^3$$ and seeing if 23458623786487236483 is divisible by 9.

 

[MathWarrior]

Next semester, I have two options: differential equations or number theory. Which do you think would be a better choice for my career, in terms of building a knowledge base?

Number theory is pretty applicable to upper division computer science courses such as cryptography, or theoretical computer science.

 

[20Tauri]

I don't know much about diff. eq...still need to take it. As Math Warrior said, though, number theory has a fair number of computational applications--RSA public-key cryptography, integer factorization, primality testing.

 

[Matrix0]

As a scientist, my opinion would be to take differential equations. While number theory may have some applications in computer science, differential equations are widely used in various fields of science, including physics, engineering, and biology. They are essential for modeling and solving complex systems and can also be applied to computer science problems such as optimization and machine learning.

Furthermore, many companies that conduct scientific research value employees with a strong background in mathematics, particularly differential equations. It shows that you have the ability to think critically and solve complex problems, which are highly sought after skills in the scientific industry.

That being said, number theory can also be beneficial in understanding certain computer science concepts, particularly in the field of cryptography. It may also be useful in certain research projects, but for a more well-rounded and practical knowledge base, I would recommend differential equations.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal interests and career goals. If you are more interested in pursuing a career in pure mathematics or theoretical computer science, then number theory may be the better choice for you. However, if you are interested in applying mathematics to real-world problems and working in scientific research, then differential equations would be the more practical option.