Physics curriculum w/out linear algebra?

[jbrussell93]

My school does not require physics majors to take linear algebra. I've noticed that some schools have a course called "differential equations and linear algebra" that is taken after the calc sequence but we only have to take ODE. There is a matrix theory class that math majors take that I've been considering but is it really necessary? There is also a math methods course offered through the physics department but I think it mainly covers complex analysis. Am I cutting myself short by not taking a formal linear algebra class?

 

[Pengwuino]

You probably don't need to take a proper linear algebra class from the Math department because I suspect taking the math methods course within your own department will be sufficient. I would personally grab the linear algebra text to study on the side, however. It probably depends greatly on exactly what gets taught in the physics course.

 

[micromass]

My school does not require physics majors to take linear algebra. I've noticed that some schools have a course called "differential equations and linear algebra" that is taken after the calc sequence but we only have to take ODE. There is a matrix theory class that math majors take that I've been considering but is it really necessary? There is also a math methods course offered through the physics department but I think it mainly covers complex analysis. Am I cutting myself short by not taking a formal linear algebra class?

A lot depends on what you want to do. If you're interested in QM and if you want to do research in it, then I think that a linear algebra course is really a must. Things really make more sense if you have gone through a rigorous LA course.

If your interests are not very theoretical, then you can probably do without a formal LA course.

 

[clope023]

My school does not require physics majors to take linear algebra. I've noticed that some schools have a course called "differential equations and linear algebra" that is taken after the calc sequence but we only have to take ODE. There is a matrix theory class that math majors take that I've been considering but is it really necessary? There is also a math methods course offered through the physics department but I think it mainly covers complex analysis. Am I cutting myself short by not taking a formal linear algebra class?

My school doesn't require a formal linear algebra course from the math department for physics and engineering majors but every professor strongly encourages taking it as an elective. The math methods course teaches you matrix methods, calculations, eigenvalue problems, etc; if you want to be a theorist I would take it in the math department; an experimentalist maybe the methods course is all you need. I think you'd be cutting yourself short but I'm an experimentalist who likes his mathematical rigor.

 

[Matrix0]

I believe that a strong foundation in mathematics is crucial for success in the field of physics. While it may not be a requirement for your physics curriculum, I would highly recommend taking a linear algebra course. Linear algebra is a fundamental tool in many areas of physics, including quantum mechanics and electromagnetism.

Linear algebra allows us to understand and manipulate systems of equations and vectors, which are essential concepts in physics. It also provides a framework for understanding transformations and symmetry, which are important in many physical theories.

Furthermore, many advanced physics courses and research projects may require knowledge of linear algebra. By taking a formal linear algebra course, you will be better prepared for these future endeavors.

I understand that you may already have a busy schedule and may be hesitant to add another course to your workload. However, the benefits of taking a linear algebra course far outweigh the potential challenges. Additionally, you may find that the concepts and skills you learn in this course will greatly benefit your understanding of other physics courses.

Ultimately, the decision is yours to make. But as a scientist, I would encourage you to seriously consider taking a formal linear algebra course in order to enhance your understanding and skills in the field of physics.