What classes to take applied math?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around a student with a physics minor who is transitioning to applied math graduate school, seeking advice on course selection and sequencing. The student has completed several upper-division math courses, including Real Analysis, Linear Algebra, and Probability Theory, and needs to take additional courses such as Math Modeling and Linear and Nonlinear Systems of DEs, along with four electives. Key recommendations for electives include Real Analysis B, Fourier Analysis, Optimization, and Numerical Analysis, with a focus on their applicability to applied math and potential relevance to physics. The importance of taking classes in sequence is questioned, particularly regarding how it may affect graduate school applications. There is also mention of the Math GRE and its requirements for applied math programs, highlighting the relevance of courses like Topology and Abstract Algebra. Overall, the discussion emphasizes strategic course selection to enhance graduate school prospects in applied mathematics.
mobiusdafrost
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so here's the thing, i basically have a physics minor and decided to go to applied math grad school since i think it'll open up more options and involves more math and won't involve experiments than engineering. i don't want to do theoretical physics since I'm concerned about job opportunities

so far I've completed, these are all upperdiv:
Real Analysis A
Linear Algebra A
Differential Equations
PDEs
Complex Analysis
Probability Theory A

I need to take:
Math Modeling
Linear and Nonlinear Systems of DEs
Probability Theory B
4 more electives

For the electives, I've considered: Numerical Analysis, Combinatorics, Optimization, Abstract Algebra (I dropped the honors version), Topology, Fourier Analysis, Real Analysis B

which of the classes i need to take should i take asap?

I plan on going into applied linear algebra, DEs, PDEs, fluid mechanics or numerical analysis for applied math grad school, hopefully doing something with applications to physics
 
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Real analysis B, Fourier analysis, optimization and numerical analysis are probably the best applied math courses from the electives you listed. Actually optimization and numerical analysis will probably be the most applied, but I expect real analysis and Fourier analysis will be the most meaningful.

Actually my plans are kind of similar to your's. I started out in aerospace engineering, but I will be finishing my degree in math, and I am applying to applied math grad schools this Fall..
 
Also does it matter a lot if you don't take classes in sequence to grad schools? say, taking numerical analysis A in fall 07 and then numerical analyis B in fall 08 instead of spring 07, the semester immediately after taking part A?

also, isn't topology and abstract algebra on the math GRE? isn't the math GRE requried for applied math grad schools? I'm a 4th yr and plan to apply to grad schools next fall
 
Most PDE theory involves functional analysis. I would suggest Analysis B, Fourier Analysis, Topology, and either Optimization or numerical analysis.
 
alright thanks for the replies

in what order should i take the classes i still need for the degree?
 
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