Is CSM Physics Harder Than MIT's?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the perceived difficulty of physics programs at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) compared to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Participants explore the implications of rankings and the rigor of coursework in these institutions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants mention that CSM physics is considered harder than MIT's, though the basis for this claim is not detailed.
  • There is a distinction made between "harder" and "better," with some arguing that increased difficulty does not equate to a superior program.
  • Questions are raised about the specific textbooks used in MIT's physics curriculum, particularly for honors freshman physics and subsequent courses.
  • One participant notes that honors electromagnetism (E&M) at MIT uses Purcell, while some freshman learning communities may use Griffiths.
  • References are made to the availability of course materials and textbooks on MIT's open courseware platform.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the difficulty of the programs, with no consensus reached on whether CSM is indeed harder than MIT. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the comparison of the two institutions' physics programs.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the difficulty rankings and the criteria used for comparison are not explicitly stated. The discussion also relies on anecdotal evidence regarding student workload and textbook usage.

Weave
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I just heard this, but I heard Colorado School of Mines physics is ranked harder than MIT's. Does any goes to mines?
 
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Ranked better, or tougher?
 
yeah, harder does not necessarily mean better.
 
Question about MIT physics: It's my understanding that they use Kleppner's mechanics book for honors freshman physics. What do they use after that for the rest of lower division physics?

And you bet those CSM physics students work hard...
http://historyplace.com/unitedstates/childlabor/cage.jpg
 
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Daverz, honors E&M uses Purcell (though certain of the freshman learning communities have used Griffiths)

beyond that, I don't know. I bet the physics webpage would have a listing and certainly the open courseware pages will list the text.
 
opencourseware also has the name for the text used for everyone of their courses listed there.
 

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