Is this too heavy a course load?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the appropriateness of a proposed course load for a freshman in college, specifically focusing on the balance of challenging subjects such as Calculus 3, Honors Physics 3, General Chemistry 2, and Intro to Differential Equations. Participants also explore the sequencing of Linear Algebra and Differential Equations within the curriculum.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the suitability of the course load depends on individual factors such as prior knowledge and personal study habits.
  • One participant questions the appropriateness of seeking advice from the forum, suggesting that peers or academic advisors may provide more relevant insights.
  • A participant proposes considering the order of taking Linear Algebra and Differential Equations, raising the question of which course might be more beneficial to take first.
  • It is noted that Linear Algebra may be more challenging than Differential Equations, but it could also be essential for understanding the latter, depending on the course structure.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of taking Linear Algebra early, as it may facilitate understanding in both Multivariable Calculus and Differential Equations.
  • One participant mentions that the necessary Linear Algebra concepts for Differential Equations might be covered within the latter course itself.
  • A participant asserts that the proposed course load might be lighter than typical for a physics major, suggesting that the original poster may not encounter significant issues.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of the course load and the sequencing of Linear Algebra and Differential Equations. There is no consensus on the best approach, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal course strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of individual circumstances, such as prior knowledge and time management, in determining the feasibility of the course load. There are also unresolved questions about course prerequisites and the specific content taught in each course.

paridiso
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Is this too heavy a course load to take in the spring of my freshman year?

Calculus 3 - 4 credits
Honors Physics 3 - 5 credits
General Chemistry 2 - 4 credits
Intro to Diff. Equations - 4 credits
Some easy gened I have to take - 3 credits

That's a total of 20 credits. Physics 3 covers waves and the calc course is multi-variable stuff. I'm required to take the gened so I can't drop that.
 
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It depends on who you are, how good grades you want and how well you know your prerequisites.
 
Don't take this the wrong way, but why would you ask such a question here? No one here knows those courses, the professors, the university, your intelligence, how much time you have, etc.

Your fellow students or study advisor will probably have an appropriate answer. Or just try it out, and drop a course if it turns out to be too much.
 
Yea I guess that makes sense. Let's say I do end up doing it. Generally, would I be better off taking linear algebra instead of diff. equations and taking diff. equations later? I have to take both anyway so which order's better?

Thanks.
 
Linear algebra will probably be harder than diff. equations, and so will take more of your time, but you will probably be needing linear algebra for your course in diff. equations, unless they teach you the needed linear algebra in the diff. equations course. Is linear algebra a prereq. for diff. equations? On the other hand, you'll probably be needing the material in your diff. equations course sooner (for physics) than the stuff in your linear algebra course! The best thing would be to take to the lecturers of the courses and the student/curriculum advisor.
 
In my opinion, linear algebra is so important that you should take it as soon as possible. Also, diff. eq. will probably use linear algebra (although that depends on the course, naturally).
 
I don't know your courses but knowing Linear Algebra can make Multivariable Calculus and DE's a lot easier.

Edit: Looks like others already said that...
 
qspeechc said:
Linear algebra will probably be harder than diff. equations, and so will take more of your time, but you will probably be needing linear algebra for your course in diff. equations, unless they teach you the needed linear algebra in the diff. equations course. Is linear algebra a prereq. for diff. equations? On the other hand, you'll probably be needing the material in your diff. equations course sooner (for physics) than the stuff in your linear algebra course! The best thing would be to take to the lecturers of the courses and the student/curriculum advisor.

Linear Algebra isn't a prereq here. If I end up taking linear algebra I'll be taking diff. equations during the summer.

It looks like they teach the LA you need for Diff. Eq. during the course.
 
Last edited:
I'd say that's actually a tad light for a standard term of a physics major/specialist so I don't think you should have any problems
 

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