<p>How much more difficult is Math 54 honors than Math 54? I am thinking Physics 7A, Computer Science 61A, Math 54H, and Computer Science 98. Is that too heavy? Can a freshman even get into math honors courses?</p>
<p>Why do you want to take it? Are you hoping to be a math major? What is your physics and programming background?</p>
<p>I want to take it because it fits into my schedule better, plus I have a decent background in linear algebra through 3D graphics programming, also that is a fairly strong interest of mine. My physics background is pretty weak, I haven't had much exposure to physics past basic high school physics, which is all my school offered. I have read quite a few books on quantum physics as well as relativity, but that doesn't really apply. My programming background is quite extensive, I actually work as a professional software developer during the summers, so I am not worried about CS at all. I have been programming steadily for 5 years, in many different languages on many different platforms, using many different libraries/APIs.</p>
<p>Oh, and it seems a bunch of the regular 54 class discussions have been closed, and I cannot make it to the two with open times.</p>
<p>Well, my understanding is that 54H is likely to be more theoretical and proof-heavy than 54. I can only assume the problem sets will be more difficult and require a lot more time to complete. One advantage of the class is that it is so much smaller, so you have a lot more interaction with the professor.</p>
<p>You should have no problem taking 54H if you taken the equivalent of 1A/1B. I actually think most people in the class will be freshman.</p>
<p>If you are grade-obsessed, if a B or a B+ will destroy you emotionally, don't take 54H. Otherwise, I think you should give it a go, you're only in college once you only have one shot to really take advantage of what Berkeley has to offer.</p>
<p>Physics 7A isn't that hard of a class. It requires time and attention, but shouldn't be overwhelming.</p>
<p>if your main reason for taking 54H is because 'it fits into your schedule', then it will be wise to wait until spring and take regular 54. honor classes are for students that are highly interested and planning to major in the subject. also, if you are an incoming freshman, realize that the honors courses at cal are not like those at a highschool. 54H gives only a handful of A-'s,A's and the majority are received by math majors.</p>
<p>But, if you don't mind having a C or B, then you should just take it.</p>
<p>Yeah grades do not matter to me, I am an EECS major and like I said I have been doing differential equations and linear algebra with simulated physics and graphics systems for a while, so I do not know why I am worried.</p>