Programs Math major and engineering major

AI Thread Summary
Pursuing a double major in mathematics and either chemical engineering (Chem E) or electrical engineering (EE) can be a rewarding but challenging path. Initial math courses such as Calculus 1, 2, 3, Differential Equations, and possibly Linear Algebra often overlap between the two majors, allowing for some shared credits. However, as students progress into upper-level courses, the overlap diminishes, with math courses becoming more abstract and less application-focused compared to the more practical nature of engineering classes. Students may also need to fulfill additional core requirements for both majors, which can increase the overall course load. Focusing on subjects like digital systems processing within EE can be beneficial, as it incorporates significant mathematical concepts. Overall, this dual path is seen as enjoyable and intellectually stimulating, with potential advantages in fields like aerospace engineering, where a strong math background is valued.
pakmingki2
Messages
35
Reaction score
0
Hello
I'm a freshmen in college and I am planning on doing a double major for a BS in math and chem e or ee.

Does anyone have experiences with this?
what should i expect?
thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Depending on what math you begin with, many math classes could over lap between your majors.
For the Math and EE ( I'm not so familiar with reqs for Chem E) you will need Calc 1,2,3 + DE and probably Linear Algebra as well. (The EE major may call Linear Algebra just Matricies or Discrete Math Or some other more generic name where in you learn more than just linear algebra techniques)

Of course you will need more math for the amth major but your first 4 or 5 classes will count towards both majors. Other than that the over lap ceases. That is not to say one will not complememnt the other past that rather that only the initial classes will double up. You may take a higher level Applied Maths course that helps you a lot with your EE but it may not count for anythign in your EE major.

You will be thinking in two different ways once you are into your 3rd and 4th years. The upper division math courses may seem rather vague and abstract and less application oriented. Where as I think Ee in general will feel more application oriented
 
at my school the after the overlapping classes it's 7 classes for a math major
 
Im a math/computer engineering/ physics guy. If you do math, i figure you will have to do Ba or Bs requirements in addition to an enginneering degree. This means you might have more core classes to take. Otherwise, its a very enjoyable course of study and i wish you the best.
Also, digital systems processing is a very mathematical subject that you might want to focus on if you choose the EE or CpE route.
 
Last edited:
A lot of the aerospace professors here have minors in math because it was required at MIT (Almost all are from MIT). So, I think its a very good idea.
 
Speaking of MIT, my school ranks higher than it in polymers! =D
 
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...
I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
Hello, I’m an undergraduate student pursuing degrees in both computer science and physics. I was wondering if anyone here has graduated with these degrees and applied to a physics graduate program. I’m curious about how graduate programs evaluated your applications. In addition, if I’m interested in doing research in quantum fields related to materials or computational physics, what kinds of undergraduate research experiences would be most valuable?
Back
Top