Online math courses toward physics options?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the selection and sequencing of online mathematics courses in preparation for a university program, particularly in relation to pursuing a degree in engineering or physics. Participants explore the implications of course order and concurrent enrollment on understanding and future academic progression.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant lists available online math courses and seeks advice on the order of completion and potential concurrent courses.
  • Another participant suggests that Linear Algebra could be taken alongside Calculus, arguing it may aid in understanding Multivariable Calculus.
  • There is a viewpoint that pairing Multivariable Calculus with Complex Variables could either be beneficial or confusing, depending on the learner's habits.
  • A participant expresses a desire to transition from a technical role to a project management position, indicating the necessity of completing certain courses first.
  • One participant recommends completing Calculus 2, 3, and Linear Algebra before Multivariable Calculus, emphasizing the importance of course order.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for universities not to recognize online course credits, with one participant expressing a willingness to accept this outcome.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the optimal order for taking courses and the feasibility of concurrent enrollment. There is no consensus on the best approach, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the ideal course sequence.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the possibility of universities not accepting online course credits, which introduces uncertainty regarding the recognition of completed courses. The discussion also reflects individual circumstances that may influence course selection.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering online mathematics courses in preparation for engineering or physics degrees, as well as those interested in the implications of course sequencing on academic progression.

CrunchBerries
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The following online courses are available to me through my work for free:

Calculus 1 (almost finished)
Calculus 2
Multivariable Calc
Linear Algebra
Ordinary Diff equations
Partial Diff equations
Complex Variables I

I plan on doing 4 to 6 of these math courses before going into a program at university. In which order should I do these? If I were to do some concurrent courses, which ones go well together?

Thank you!
 
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IMO you could do Linear algebra alongside with calculus. It might help when it comes to multivariate calculus and isn't that difficult. It's a different way to approach stuff so it might seem to be difficult. However, it's mainly a matter of being used to. Similar could be said about pairing multivariate calculus and complex calculus. Having both at the same time could either confuse you or it can help to overcome the fundamental question: Why isn't complex not the same as two-dimensional real? It depends on personal habits.
 
Thanks, i might just figure out linear algebra through calc ii.
 
Why delay going to university?
 
Good question.. i have to qualify first. I have to complete 4 courses first, up to 6. The my company looks at my progression and asseses if its worth to invest in full university training for a project management position.

Basically i want to go from a gutter tech to a project manager. EE/BSc-Phys degree are the two qualifications for that.
 
CrunchBerries said:
Good question.. i have to qualify first. I have to complete 4 courses first, up to 6. The my company looks at my progression and asseses if its worth to invest in full university training for a project management position.

Basically i want to go from a gutter tech to a project manager. EE/BSc-Phys degree are the two qualifications for that.

Do calculus 2, 3, and linear algebra then. (As always my opinion remains you should do LA before multivariate calclus.) You may need to repeat these courses if the universities you apply to (or are allowed to apply to) don't accept this online credit.
 
Thanks, there is a chance the uni won't plar my credits, but that's fine with me. I am just glad i even get considered. Ideally, if these get plar'd then i will be able to fit higher level physics courses in an EE major, maybe even get a phys minor with a EE major.
 
CrunchBerries said:
Thanks, there is a chance the uni won't plar my credits
Plar? :oldconfused:

Aha, that seems to be a Canadian thing... carry on...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PLAR
 

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