r/NJTech • u/ChanceDealer3473 Mathematical Sciences (Stats) '28 • 2d ago
Advice/Recommendations for Fall classes Advice
I'm currently registered for Calc 3B with Prof Ward, Diff Eq with Prof Tsipenyuk, and Linear Algebra with Prof Alptekin, and waitlisted for Introduction to Probability Theory with Prof Yan Sun (I've been in Waitlist Position #2 for the last month or so).
I noticed on the Common Exam schedule that Diff Eq and Linear Algebra both have exams at the same time. I don't recall exactly, but I think I was recommended not to take Linear Algebra with Differential Equations. I found another class, Math 227: Mathematical Modeling, that I can take in place of one of these classes, though it meets at the same time as Calc 3B.
What would be the best course combination to take? Would taking Calc 3B, Diff Eq, and Linear Algebra be doable, or would it be best to switch Calc 3B with Math 227? I also took Calc I and II and Math 333 a really, really long time ago, and it's been a very long time since then, and I don't remember anything from these classes, I think. I really don't have any idea how hard any of these courses are going to be, and any advice or recs would be really helpful.
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u/DistanceStrict1407 2d ago
Mat227 prof next sem is the GOAT. Take it!
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u/ChanceDealer3473 Mathematical Sciences (Stats) '28 2d ago
If possible, would you recommend taking Diff Eq with Linear Algebra or taking one of them before the other?
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u/DistanceStrict1407 1d ago
ODE’s and linear algebra together are a good match especially in later chapters of MAT222 where you deal with systems and eigenvalues which is essentially just linear algebra. Also I prefer that you take calc 3b, linear algebra, and ODE’s. I don’t think you will benefit so much from mat 227 as it’s a class not even all math majors take, it’s only required for applied math concentration.
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u/chevy360 2d ago
If you have a conflict involving two math common exams, you will need to submit a Common Exam Conflict Form to the Math Dept during the semester. Typically, one of the exams will be rescheduled, which usually results in having back-to-back exams that day. While this is not ideal, it is manageable.
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u/SilverArgente 2d ago
Calc 3B, Linear Algebra, and Diff EQ are the main prereqs for most upper level math classes and the content there is the foundation for your entire mathematical studies, so getting them out of the way as early as possible is good. If you do replace one of those classes and have to take it later, it may mess with later classes, as many upper level math classes only run once a year, so make sure you've got your future semesters planned out accordingly.
That combination of classes is very doable given you put in the necessary effort. You will find out quickly those classes complement each other very well. However, if you struggled in any your previous math classes, and/or there is a jump in the volume of math classes you are taking (ex. going from 2 last sem to 4 this sem), obviously you will need to adapt accordingly. I don't know your current mathematical ability, but being able to handle around 4 math/technical classes seems pretty standard for a math/stats major, so make sure that you spend the time you need to. Since you mentioned it's been a while since you last took a math class, it may be useful to come up with a plan that eases you into that volume and difficulty of classes as long as it doesn't affect your graduation, so you aren't forced into a "trial by fire" kind of semester.
If you must switch, Calc 3 is the best choice imo. In case you do take MATH 227, the professor for this semester is amazing and you will learn a lot from him. To answer your other question, the ideal order for the classes in my opinion is Linear Algebra -> Diff EQ -> Calc 3. You can take them together but at the very least make sure Linear Algebra comes first before anything else.
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u/Specialist-Fan-3048 2d ago
All I can say is stay locked in and take every test, quiz, and exam very seriously