Learning Parallel Computation as a particle physicist

[orochi]

I am starting my Master's Degree in Nuclear and Particle Physics, should i invest in taking a course in Parallel Computation? I know the role that Parallel Computation has in particle physics, but is there any use in a particle physicst learning about parallel computation, or could it be considered a waste of time since only physicists specialized in computational physics need to know about parallel computation?

 

[phyzguy]

I would say yes, you should take the course. Virtually all practicing physicists use computers extensively, not just "physicists specialized in computational physics". Parallel computation is a very important tool to have in your toolbox.

 

[Frabjous]

I don’t think it is that clear cut. If you are not a coder type, it is probably not a good idea. If you are a coder type, it might be better to learn to program gpu’s or fpga’s. Or parallel programming might be exactly what you need. It depends on your specific path. Everything has an opportunity cost.