Would Calc. 3 and Eng. Physics 1 be too much for Summer?

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

Hey everyone,

I am currently in College Physics 1 right now, and Calculus 2. Both courses are going seemingly well. I have an ‘A’ in both classes, but I do devote a lot of time to studying. Between the two I probably put in about 20 hours/week depending on the material covered. This is also my first time ever taking a physics course.

This Summer I am thinking about taking Calc. 3 with Engineering Physics 1.

From our syllabus:

Calc 3 is:
A standard third course in calculus. Topics include polar coordinates and polar curves; vectors and analytical geometry in three dimensions; vector-valued functions and curvature; components of acceleration; functions of several variables; limits and continuity in three-space; partial and directional derivatives; gradients, tangent planes, and extreme of functions of two variables; multiple integrals in rectangular, polar, spherical, and cylindrical coordinates; applications of multiple integrals to area, volume, moments, centroids, and surface area.

EP1 is:
Fundamental principles of physics, using calculus, for science, computer science, and engineering majors; the principles and applications of classical mechanics, including harmonic motion, physical systems and thermodynamics; and emphasis on problem solving. Intended for majors in engineering, physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

The reason I want to do this is to take Statics in Fall. They only offer it in Fall Semesters, and I am at a community college right now. Next fall I won’t be there anymore, so I want to get as much out of the way as I can.

Thanks.

2

I don’t think those two courses together would be too much over the summer! That being said, if you’re planning on transferring, you’re going to need to make sure that the credits transfer - if they won’t transfer to your new school, then I wouldn’t suggest taking those classes.

3

Summer is half as long as a semester at most schools. So a half course load, typically two courses, during the summer would be similar work per week as a full course load, typically four courses, during a regular semester. Each course will move at double speed, but you have half as many of them.

4

What else will you be doing over the summer? It appears to be a do-able load for you but if you will be working 40 hours/week or anything else time consuming, you need to factor that in. Also need to factor in if you can sustain a relatively full/challenging workload and then go into a new full school year. Do you need to catch you breath or are you okay with pushing through?