Questions About Taking 12 Hours of Math Courses Next Semester

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of taking 12 credit hours of math-intensive courses, specifically Calculus 3, Linear Algebra, Chemistry 2, and Calculus-based Physics for science majors. Participants clarify that the total credit hours, including lab components, can exceed 12, reaching up to 16 or 18 credits depending on the institution. A recommended strategy for managing course loads involves creating a detailed schedule that allocates time for classes, study sessions, and personal commitments. The consensus emphasizes the importance of estimating study time, with a suggested guideline of two hours of study for every hour of class time, particularly for science and math courses.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of college-level mathematics, including Calculus and Linear Algebra
  • Familiarity with the structure of science courses, including lab components
  • Basic time management skills for academic scheduling
  • Knowledge of study techniques and time estimation for coursework
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective time management strategies for college students
  • Explore study techniques specifically for Calculus and Physics courses
  • Investigate the curriculum requirements for math-intensive programs
  • Connect with peers or academic advisors for insights on course difficulty and study expectations
USEFUL FOR

Students considering a heavy course load in mathematics and science, academic advisors, and anyone seeking to optimize their study schedules for challenging subjects.

grantwilliams
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Next semester I am looking at taking 12 hours of math intensive courses, would it be wise to stay with just the 12 hours, or would it still be possible to take another Gen-Ed or humanities course?

The courses are:
Calc 3
Linear algebra
Chem 2
Calc based Physics for science majors.
 
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That is only 12 credits? Please show me the break down. At my school that is 18 credits :P (assuming the science classes have labs)
 
Yeah at my school that is 16 (semester) units.

Calc 3 (3)
Lin Alg (3)
Chem 2 (5)
Phys (5)

My school's sister school has a calc based phys that is 4 units... so at least 15 units!
 
Ahh I did forget about the lab for chem which is another hour so it's 4 not 3. I don't know if physics has a lab or not
 
If it is Calculus based physics there *should* be a lab component.
 
To determine is something is a good load, I like to make a spreadsheet. I put the 24 hours in a day 7 days a week, fill in the class block and then fill it in with 'reasonable' study blocks for each class. I make sure to have time for workouting out and family. If I can fit, class, study, relaxing, and sleep, then to me, it's a do-able schedule.
 
MarneMath that is very helpful advice and I will deinitely be trying that, but I guess I just am not quite sure how much time will be required to study. I have heard a good rule of thumb is 2times the number of hours you are taking is a reasonable guess. I'm assuming that still applies to a science/math based schedule?
 
I believe that is a good rule of thumb but there are exception. If you know anyone who took some of those courses, ask them how difficult it is and the average amount of time they spent studying.

I wasn't a 'stud' in physics, and our physics I and II courses were weed out courses, so the average person spent 2-3 hours per night on homework. Calc III on the other hand was laid back and I probably only spent an hour to 2 hours a night. Linear Algebra, I simply spent 1 hour a day on it.

So overall, ask people who have taken the course, or go by the rule you mentioned. When in doubt, it's better to overestimate the amount of time needed to study, than underestimate.
 

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