<p>I know that non-linear dynamics/chaos theory is the hottest new research field these days - with applications to Applied Math, Atmospheric Sciences, Astronomy, Physics, biology, all the social sciences, economics, etc etc etc... So could one perhaps try one's best in non-linear dynamics, and then apply to grad schools in different fields with this knowledge in hand? There are quite a few recent books in the social sciences or other research fields that are only starting to highlight the potential of this field. But only the Applied Math department really does research in this field. Is anyone else thinking about using this as a benchmark for grad schools elsewhere?</p>
<p>i took non-linear dynamical systems/chaos last semester. it was a very fun (and initially really challenging) course. i highly recommend taking it. the book was amazingly easy to read, and it seems to have much potential as u mentioned. as for making use of that potential... good luck. it's really hard to actually construct/identify a real world example of true chaos... many things are non-linear.. but chaos is pretty rare, heh. as for using it as a benchmark, i did not because i'm applied for comp sci programs. take the class though. it's awesome.</p>