Shouldn't engineering majors have as strong of a background in math

[Minhtran1092]

mathematics (on the subjects of calculus, linear algebra, differential equation) as math majors? It seems like my electrical engineering curriculum doesn't give calculus proper treatment. It basically had me learn how to do computation but never led me on to study calculus rigorously (as one would do in a "Real Analysis" course). Would you agree that any good engineer is a mathematician?

 

[Hercuflea]

No...calculus is just the baby steps of a mathematics major's undergraduate experience. In fact some come into college with calculus already behind them...

 

[Nick O]

I also do not agree. I will be able to do more advanced math than plenty of non-engineers, but I won't have or need a strong background in number theory, analysis, and proofs that a mathematician must have to succeed. My job will be to create devices, not theorems.

 

[thegreenlaser]

mathematics (on the subjects of calculus, linear algebra, differential equation) as math majors? It seems like my electrical engineering curriculum doesn't give calculus proper treatment. It basically had me learn how to do computation but never led me on to study calculus rigorously (as one would do in a "Real Analysis" course). Would you agree that any good engineer is a mathematician?

No. The vast majority of electrical engineers really don't need anything near the level of rigor that a mathematician would see. A lot of them don't even need all the math they learned throughout their degree. Personally, I think the rigorous approach to EE math is interesting can help to provide a deeper understanding, and it's probably useful in some areas of engineering research (maybe like random noise/signal processing?) but I certainly wouldn't say that a rigorous approach to mathematics is necessary for being a good engineer. The amount of benefit most engineers would get from a rigorous approach to math is very small, I think, when compared to the amount of extra work required.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the importance of a strong mathematical foundation in the field of engineering. It is true that engineering majors should have a strong background in mathematics, particularly in subjects such as calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. These mathematical concepts are essential for understanding and solving complex engineering problems.

I can understand your concern about the lack of emphasis on calculus in your electrical engineering curriculum. While it is important for engineers to have a thorough understanding of mathematical concepts, the focus of an engineering curriculum is often on the practical application of these concepts rather than theoretical rigor. However, this does not mean that engineers are not mathematicians.

In fact, engineering is a highly interdisciplinary field that requires a combination of mathematical, scientific, and practical skills. Engineers must be able to apply mathematical concepts to real-world problems and develop solutions that are both efficient and effective. This requires a deep understanding of mathematical principles, but also the ability to think critically and creatively to solve complex problems.

In conclusion, while engineering majors may not have the same level of mathematical rigor as math majors, they still require a strong foundation in mathematics to be successful in their field. Engineers are indeed mathematicians, but their focus is on applying mathematical concepts to practical problems rather than pure theory. Both math and engineering are essential disciplines that complement each other and contribute to advancements in science and technology.