<p>I was wondering how the different types of math are used in each engineering field. Are there certain types of math used more often in an engineering major?</p>
<p>Great question.</p>
<p>Differential equations show up a lot in physics. Complex numbers show up all over with circuits. Number theory plays a role in cryptography. Fourier series and transforms are useful everywhere.</p>
<p>I see a lot of partial derivatives and differential equations in materials science, though complex numbers and such very rarely pop up. Fourier transforms are useful in diffraction and when you're studying electronic systems. If you're really into crystallography a class in group theory might be useful, but I doubt it's required.</p>
<p>For EE. Lots of algebra/pre-calculus/trig manipulation. Differential equations in circuit problems. Series/Sequences in signal processing. Double/surface integrals/partial derivatives/gradients in electric physics. Probably more stuff I'm not done with the degree yet.</p>
<p>If you aren't already doing math for fun don't bother. You'll make more as a stripper.</p>