What are the best math classes for physics majors?

[Romperstomper]

I'm majoring in physics and getting a math minor. I have to take 3 upper division math classes to get the minor. I'm wondering which math classes I should look at taking that would be good for physics majors.

Thanks.

 

[jbusc]

I would think classes in vector field theory(think Stoke's theorem), partial differential equations, and numerical analysis/numerical methods would rank high under "applicability to physics" in general.

Alternatively, differential geometry may be appropriate as well (in the context of general relativity) and also upper-level linear algebra (in the context of quantum mechanics)

 

[daveb]

complex analysis if you don't cover it in a physics class. Otherwise, the best is probably differential equations (both ODE and PDE)

 

[Brad Barker]

if you haven't taken linear algebra, take that. preferably a proof-based one.

can't go wrong with complex variables and more differential equations, either.

 

[unit_circle]

I would take linear algebra, ordinary DEs, and partial DEs.

 

[neurocomp2003]

PDEs, Dynamical Systems, Numericals

 

[jtbell]

I assume you already have to take calculus (including multivariable) and ordinary differential equations as part of your physics major requirements. In that case I would pick linear algebra, complex variables, and either numerical methods (if you're into programming), partial differential equations, or group theory (if you're inclined towards theoretical physics).

When I started grad school, I soon found out that I really wished I had been able to take a complex variables course as an undergraduate. My small college didn't offer one. But my first semester included an E&M course taught by an instructor who was really into conformal mapping for solving electrostatics problems. And in other courses I encountered integration in the complex plane. I ended up taking complex variables as one of my two required "cognate courses" (courses outside the physics department).

 

[Brad Barker]

I assume you already have to take calculus (including multivariable) and ordinary differential equations as part of your physics major requirements. In that case I would pick linear algebra, complex variables, and either numerical methods (if you're into programming), partial differential equations, or group theory (if you're inclined towards theoretical physics).

When I started grad school, I soon found out that I really wished I had been able to take a complex variables course as an undergraduate. My small college didn't offer one. But my first semester included an E&M course taught by an instructor who was really into conformal mapping for solving electrostatics problems. And in other courses I encountered integration in the complex plane. I ended up taking complex variables as one of my two required "cognate courses" (courses outside the physics department).

i can honestly say that complex variables was my favorite math class I've ever taken.

 

[CPL.Luke]

differential geometry, if your so inclined to get into general relativity