<p>Today I realized that if I took two more math classes beyond what's required for my major, I'd qualify for a math minor. Are there any benefits that stem from minoring in math if the additional courses required (eg, partial differential equations, or other 400 level non analysis courses) do not appear to directly benefit a geology major?</p>
<p>Yes, it benefits you as an educated person. Mathematics is applicable anywhere. If you see a use for it in the future, certainly take it. Also, a minor is a plus to any major. It may not be something you’ll use in your career, but it’s still a plus.</p>
<p>Being so close, you’ll kick yourself later if you don’t. In the physical sciences, math skills are king. You won’t go wrong with it.</p>
<p>Ok. Thanks for the input. I guess my dilemma comes from the trade off. If I pursue a math minor, I won’t be able to take two advanced geology/geophysics electives or courses in another field such as personal finance or accounting.
Btw, next semester (I’m in my third semester of college), I’ll have completed my math requirements for the major. </p>
<p>Also, does anyone know which non-analysis math courses beyond linear algebra and ordinary differential equations are most helpful for the physical sciences?</p>
<p>This is just a random website on the internet, but according to [url=<a href=“http://www.school-for-champions.com/science/math.htm]them[/url”>Using Mathematics in Physical Science by Ron Kurtus - Physics Lessons: School for Champions]them[/url</a>], assuming that you’re done with your calculus sequel, differential equations is applicable. Also, at my university there are math electives such as “Advanced Engineering Math”, if that interests you.</p>
<p>I’m taking ordinary differential equations next semester. It’s required for my major and will be the last math class I “need” to take.</p>
<p>Today one of my professors mentioned that to do multivariate mineral analysis graphing, partial differential equations is required. Therefore, if I decide to do a math minor, I’d probably take that course. </p>
<p>Would a non engineering major struggle in an engineering math class? One of my least favorite classes is physics, particularly designing systems to minimize energy expenditures and from what I understanding, that’s a huge part of engineering. The thought of taking a math class devoted to such things makes me shudder, regardless of how useful it may be.</p>
<p>Anyone else have suggestions either on the practicality of a math minor, a useful 400 level non analysis course (eg beyond discrete math, linear algebra, and ODE), or just general thoughts/anecdotes on how a math minor helped them in the “real” world?</p>