I am noticing that there are more B.A./B.S. in Mathematics programs in which Differential Equations is an optional math elective. It’s still required if the student elects an applied option or majors totally in applied mathematics, but not a mathematics or computational mathematics major.
Thoughts?
At my university, DiffEq is an elective for the math major, but not required. At first, I thought it was odd, but after some thought, understood. I have, so far (I graduate in the spring), chosen not to take it, since its not really relevant to what I want to do (crypto work). Diff Eq covers pretty advanced calculus, which is nice for people who want to go into an area that needs it, but a lot of those pursuing more theoretical math or other areas don’t really need it. A lot of people go into subfields of algebra, which doesn’t need DiffEq. By not requiring DiffEq, you can take another area more relevant to your interests.
I was a math major back when Differential Equations was required. I can’t imagine being a math major and not taking it. I have used it after graduating university.
Which schools would be examples of those that had it as a requirement before but not now?
Interesting. I thought of it as a sophomore level course. It’s not an elective at the first college I checked, UCSB. It’s part of the pre-major, so you can’t officially be a math major until after you’ve taken it.
I guess math has more sub-fields these days. I do see parts of it (ordinary, first order) mentioned in descriptions of other math courses here and there.
I’d be surprised if it were removed as a requirement for physics majors, since differential equations are fundamental to a lot of physics.
@Ynotgo as far as I’m aware, DiffEq is not a requirement for physics majors at my university either, unless they are an interdisciplinary physics major and choose math as their concentration (interdisciplinary majors are required to do a concentration).