Choosing Math and Physics Classes for Spring

Colleges and Universities A-Z Arizona State University
1

Hi, I’m currently a freshman computer systems engineering major and I’m finishing up Calc III this semester. Next semester, I am planning to take MAT 243 Discrete Mathematics and MAT 275 Modern Differential Equations. I’m also finishing PHY 121/122 in the honors section and the professor told me that I’ll probably finish with an A or a B, but it’s been absolute hell. He also says that I should take PHY 131 next semester instead of waiting so I’ll remember past material. I’m probably doing non-honors.

The problem is that if I add PHY 131 onto my schedule, that will bring me to 21 credit hours. There is the option of doing PHY 131 next semester and then doing Diff Eq alongside Linear Algebra next fall, which I hear some people do. But leaves me without a calculus-heavy math class for next semester and the summer, and I’m worried I’ll forget some skills. I know it seems like I’m rushing math but I’m trying to graduate early or at least do something like a math minor.

Is it common to do Diff Eq alongside Linear Algebra? Are any of these typically offered over the summer? Is it possible to go over the credit limit?

2

I think you can do this either way. Second semester physics is electricity and magnetism and I don’t really think there is that much overlap with mechanics that you would be in danger of forgetting material. How are you doing in Calc III? If you are not struggling, I think you could pretty easily review what you need from calculus to do Diff Eq with a semester and summer between them.

Linear algebra won’t depend on having diff eq so no problem taking them together. In fact, my daughter took Linear algebra before even having calc III.

You can check the online ASU course catalog and select 3 previous summers to see what has been offered in the past.