Which classes to take to finish minor in mathematic sciences?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting three additional classes for a minor in Mathematical Sciences alongside a major in Computer Science. Participants are considering which courses would enhance their marketability and effectiveness as computer scientists, discussing various mathematical topics and their relevance to computer science applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests taking MATH 246 (Differential Equations), MATH 450 (Logic for Computer Science), and MATH 466 (Numerical Analysis) for their perceived relevance to computer science.
  • Another participant argues for MATH 381 (Operations Research), MATH 402 (Algebraic Structures), and MATH 450, emphasizing the importance of operations research for algorithms and algebra for discrete math.
  • A different viewpoint supports MATH 246 (Differential Equations), MATH 381 (Operations Research), and MATH 450, while also recommending researching course instructors and textbooks to make an informed choice.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the necessity of MATH 246 and MATH 466, questioning their benefits compared to other courses like algebra and operations research.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which classes to take, as multiple competing views are presented regarding the relevance and utility of the suggested courses.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of course instructors and textbooks, indicating that these factors may influence their decisions but do not provide specific information on them.

Cod
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So, I've decied to major in Computer Science w/ a minor in Mathematical Sciences; however, I'm in a dilemma. I need to choose 3 more classes (out of the list below; I've already chosen the other 4 classes) and I'm not sure which ones I should take to make myself more "marketable" and a better computer scientist. With that said, which 3 do y'all think best suit my career goals and desires:

MATH 246 Differential Equations
MATH 301 Concepts of Real Analysis I
MATH 381 Operations Research
MATH 402 Algebraic Structures
MATH 450 Logic for Computer Science
MATH 463 Complex Variables
MATH 466 Numerical Analysis


Any help would be greatly appreciated.
 
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Cod said:
So, I've decied to major in Computer Science w/ a minor in Mathematical Sciences; however, I'm in a dilemma. I need to choose 3 more classes (out of the list below; I've already chosen the other 4 classes) and I'm not sure which ones I should take to make myself more "marketable" and a better computer scientist. With that said, which 3 do y'all think best suit my career goals and desires:

MATH 246 Differential Equations
MATH 301 Concepts of Real Analysis I
MATH 381 Operations Research
MATH 402 Algebraic Structures
MATH 450 Logic for Computer Science
MATH 463 Complex Variables
MATH 466 Numerical Analysis


Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I'd pick 246, 450, and 466.

CS
 
I would pick 381, 402, 450. Why? Operations research is more useful than differential equations, because many algorithms involve techniques from OR. Algebra is also very important for discrete math, which is important for combinatorial algorithms and lots of other stuff. Finally, every serious CS student needs to know logic.

I don't know why a CS student would want to study differential equations or numerical analysis. At the very least, I don't see the benefit over algebra and OR.
 
I'd tend to lean towards Diff. Eq, Operations Research and the Logic of Computer Science classes. I'd also tend to try to find out from other students who is teaching the course, what text is used, etc., to try to make an informed decision for your particular cases.
 
Thanks for the help thus far y'all. I'm currently trying to find out which books each course utilizes, but so far, only a few of them are being taught this semester. And the only books you can look at are for the current semester.

Thanks again.
 

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