Skipping a class (temporarily) a bad idea?

[m00npirate]

I want to take a statistical physics class next semester which requires that I take ODE first, and recommends that I have taken linear algebra as well.

Since I will not be able to take ODE until 2 semesters from now, due to the physics-major version only being offered in the spring (i realize now I should have taken it THIS semester, but its a bit late!) would it be inadvisable to try to learn ODE over the summer and take this statistical mechanics class next semester? I would just wait until next year (3 semesters) to take this, but because I am a math/physics double major, I have many classes that I need to take then as well, and it would make my schedule work out much more nicely.
I am, however, taking linear algebra next semester.
The other alternative is to take intro Algebra next semester instead.

Your feedback is appreciated!

 

[Jack21222]

Are there any other classes you'll need to take eventually anyway that you already meet the prereqs for? If the alternative is a gaping hole in your schedule, it might be worth taking the risk. Otherwise, if you have other classes you can plug in, I'd do it that way.

 

[isabelle]

would it be inadvisable to try to learn ODE over the summer and take this statistical mechanics class next semester?

I also did a dual major in math/physics and I had to make many choices like the one you are describing. In my case I had to take upper division electromagnetism before taking ODE, and it worked out fine. I learned all the ODE methods I needed from my E&M textbook, combined with a good knowledge of calculus. The only physics class that I wouldn't recommend skipping any prerequisites for is quantum mechanics, since that class needs all the math background it can get!

 

[Troponin]

I'm a late comer to math and physics with a previous degree in an unrelated field. Because I'm really only taking the major/minor specific courses, it seems I'm forever in the position of taking courses I don't have every pre-requisite for.
It hasn't been a fatal situation yet, but it is harder to get an understanding of what is going on when you don't have the proper background to make mental analogies of the topics.