How much math do you need to know to be an engineer?

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>I just noticed that my school does not require you to take linear algebra if you are an engineering major (unless you are a computer engineering major) and I know it is required at some schools.</p>

<p>So my question is, how much math do you need to know to be a really good engineer? I am looking into either civil or environmental engineer</p>

<p>Below are the math classes that I am required to take:</p>

<p>MTHSC 106, H106 Calculus of One Variable I 4(4,0)
Topics include analytic geometry, introduction to derivatives, computation and application of derivatives, integrals, exponential and logarithm functions.</p>

<p>MTHSC 108, H108 Calculus of One Variable II 4(4,0) Topics include transcendental functions, applications of integration, integration techniques, indeterminate forms, improper integrals, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite series.</p>

<p>MTHSC 206, H206 Calculus of Several Variables 4(4,0) Topics include real valued functions of several variables, multiple integration, differential calculus of functions of several variables, vector field theory.</p>

<p>MTHSC 208, H208 Introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations 4(4,0) Introduction to the study of differential equations and their application to physical problems. Topics include exact, series, and numerical solutions; solutions by means of Laplace transforms; and solutions of systems of differential equations.</p>

2

<p>I believe that is all you need.</p>

3

<p>my dad mentioned something about how structural engineers sometimes need to use linear algebra? but then again he said he’s an electrical engineer so he might not know what he’s talking about</p>

4

<p>that’s the standard sequence of courses. If you want to work with only a BS in Engineering, you don’t need linear algebra, it isn’t used often by civil/environmental engineers.</p>

5

<p>I think Linear algebra would be good to know. A lot of the material seemed like it could be useful. But I think I learned quite a bit of it in some of my calc and de classes, so you might learn all you need by touching on it in your other math classes.</p>

6

<p>I used some linear algebra in one of my structural analysis courses. If your school doesn’t make it a requirement, then I’m sure they teach you what you need to know in other courses.</p>

7

<p>If you are considering grad school at all I would take it. Principles from linear algebra are used a lot in graduate courses.</p>