Upper Level Math Courses: Is This Overkill?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of a proposed upper-level math and physics course schedule, specifically addressing concerns about the workload and the potential for overcommitment. The courses in question include Electromagnetism (E&M), Modern Physics, Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) with Fourier Analysis, Vector and Tensor Analysis, and Planetary Geophysics.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about whether taking two upper-level math courses concurrently with physics courses is manageable, particularly with additional commitments like a part-time job and research.
  • Another participant questions the extent of the original poster's self-study in relation to the proposed schedule.
  • Some participants suggest that the perceived difficulty of upper-level courses may be misleading, arguing that having the necessary prerequisites can make the workload manageable.
  • One participant acknowledges that while upper-level courses may contain more material, students are expected to have developed better organizational skills and learning strategies by that stage in their education.
  • A participant notes that despite strong performance in earlier courses, some students may struggle with the increased demands of upper-level courses, which raises concerns for the original poster.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on whether the proposed schedule is overkill. Some participants believe it is manageable with the right preparation, while others highlight the potential challenges and increased difficulty of upper-level courses.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a definitive conclusion regarding the workload implications of the proposed schedule, and there are varying opinions on the relationship between prior performance and success in upper-level courses.

Jawbreaker
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I know all your PF veterans may get sick of answering this question, but you have the experience I don't have yet so I'll ask anyways. Is this schedule overkill, or doable?

1. E&M I
2. Modern Physics
3. PDE's with Fourier analysis
4. Vector & Tensor Analysis
5. Planetary Geophysics

My main concern is about 3 & 4. I heard PDE's and Fourier series was important for E&M, hence me taking it concurrently. Vector and Tensor analysis is useful somewhere I know. General Relativity for sure. Would two upper level math courses be overkill? I know this is all subjective, but I don't want to get into too much than I can handle. I'll be also holding a part time job and possible research position. Thank you all for your imput. :biggrin:
 
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How much of the material did you cover through self-study?
 
Should be fine, it's somewhat of an illusion that upper year courses are more difficult than lower year courses. If you have the prerequisites then it shouldn't be a problem.
 
CaptainQuaser said:
Should be fine, it's somewhat of an illusion that upper year courses are more difficult than lower year courses. If you have the prerequisites then it shouldn't be a problem.
It isn't an illusion, there is more stuff per course the higher you get but you are expected to have matured intellectually so that you can learn faster and you are supposed to be more organized by the second/third year as well.
Many who have straight A's through the first parts starts to falter when they hit the harder courses.
 
Looks standard to me.

Klockan3 said:
Many who have straight A's through the first parts starts to falter when they hit the harder courses.

That's a big fear of mine.
 

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