<p>How hard would it be to take 3034 as a freshman (Also how would go about getting into the class)? Is this really the first introduction to proofs? Is there an honors version( it was mentioned in some places on the site but not in others)? Assuming I know all of the "math" in the prerequisites would I be prepared? I have limited experience with proofs. </p>
<p>How hard are multivariable and differential equations? Not the general subject, the classes(if there is an honors versions please talk about its difficulty).</p>
<p>I really like math and I have been sorely disappointed in high school, I do not want to go overboard with the classes I sign up for however. Its a delicate balance between a challenging course and an overwhelming course. Sorry for writing so much but I would really appreciate some advice. Thanks.</p>
<p>What classes are you taking in high school now? Before taking upper level classes you need to complete 1114 (elementary linear algebra) and 1224 (vector geometry). From the website for 3034 “prerequisites: Math 1205-1206, 1114, 1224, and either 2214 or 2224. A grade of C or better in each of the courses listed or at most one C- and a QCA of at least 2.2 in those courses.” ([Math</a> 3034 Home Page](<a href=“http://www.math.vt.edu/people/mklaus/class_home/3034_14370.html]Math”>http://www.math.vt.edu/people/mklaus/class_home/3034_14370.html)). So unless you have a lot of college credit you probably wont be able to take 3034 as a freshman. Also, I’m currently in multivar and its not too hard (1/3 of the class is series from bc calc). There are honors versions of linear, vector geometry, mulivariable, and diffeq and they are considerably harder as I have heard. Here are all the classes being offered this semester if you are interested: [The</a> Department of Mathematics at Virginia Tech](<a href=“http://www.math.vt.edu/courseSchedules/s2012.php?menu=undergrad]The”>http://www.math.vt.edu/courseSchedules/s2012.php?menu=undergrad)</p>
<p>As a freshman/academic sophomore currently taking proofs, it’s not too bad. I am also able to take the class even though I don’t have the 2214 or 2224 prerequisite (I’m taking both this semester); 3034 has no “hard” prerequisites when registering for the class, so I was able to fly under the radar.</p>
<p>How well you do in proofs depends on your understanding of arithmetic as well as your affinity with logic and problem solving. Having a background in computer science is also useful. </p>
<p>Math 2534 (Discrete Math) is very similar to 3034, but is only for CS and CPE majors. 2534 tailors more towards concepts in computer science, but CS/Math double majors take 3034 as a substitute for 2534, which is what I’m doing.</p>
<p>In my opinion (your mileage may vary), Multivar is easier than Diffeq, though it’s somewhat dependent on your professor. You apply the same techniques from BC Calculus to multiple variables, and it’s quite straightforward. Diffeq, on the other hand, involves memorizing a number of different techniques and understanding linear algebra concepts. My professor for multivar is a hard grader, while my professor for diffeq offers opportunities for bonus points.</p>
<p>Hey, I’m taking MATH2224 and MATH2214 (both honors versions) this semester.</p>
<p>2224: Like dfmlege said, multi is pretty straightforward if you’re solid in single variable calc. However, the honors section I’m in requires A TON of work. My homework assignments have topped 20 pages per week. He is a very harsh grader, but a very good teacher as well.</p>
<p>2214: Disagree with dfmlege on this one. The honors section of Diffeq is so easy. Of course, the teacher is also very good, so I haven’t had to study for it.</p>
<p>I love both classes and both teachers. Honors sections are typically more theoretical, and you learn more advanced topics than the regular section.</p>
<p>Main Point: If you’re in honors, TAKE THE HONORS MATH CLASS!!! The empo version is a waste of education.</p>
<p>Thanks for the responses. It was nice to hear some current students’ perspectives. I am currently in IB math, and we have covered a variety of things to some basic level. I independently studied stuff so that’s why I feel confident in skipping a few classes. I think I’ll just take multivariable, diffeqs, and the proofs class. I’m sure that by September I will have studied more stuff so my decision might change (I practically live on MIT OCW).</p>
<p>As darknight said, 1114 (Linear algebra) is the prerequisite for 2214, and 1224 (Vector geometry) is the prerequisite for 2224. If you don’t have dual-enrollment credit for either, you will need to take both courses during the fall semester before taking the 2000-level classes. Or better yet, test out of those courses. All math courses have a credit-by-exam option, and you can test out of 1000-level courses at the beginning of the semester. Linear algebra and vector geometry are a joke (at least the non-honors versions), and you can study for those courses online.</p>
<p>You only need a 70% on the exam to get credit for the class. Last semester, I tested out of linear algebra and just took vector geometry by itself to minimize courseload.</p>
<p>I think you can take 3034 at the same time as 2224 and 2214, since there’s no hard prerequisite, but I wouldn’t guarantee it, e.g. class sections might be full.</p>
<p>I looked over the vector geometry and linear algebra classes and they are easier than I thought. I’m pretty sure I would pass the exams without too much review. </p>
<p>I’m flexible about my current plan so I wouldn’t care too much if I take some classes later on.</p>