5 replies to this topic

[DustinStriplin]

Hello, I am a computer science major. My degree requires that I take 3 calculus classes, I will be taking the last calculus class next quarter. After I finish the first 3 calc classes I have to choose 3 classes from a list of 5. The classes are, statistics, linear algebra, differential equations, calculus IV, and technical writing.
What classes do you think I should take? I am leaning towards statistics, linear algebra, and technical writing. I would really to take calc IV, but I will be missing that class by one quarter, so I would have to wait a while if I want to take it. Will a class on differential equations help me much in my programming career.

Thank you for your help!

[yamman13]

You could ask your advisor of studies, if you have something like that in the states.

Edited by yamman13, 07 August 2010 - 10:42 AM.
grammar

[DustinStriplin]

ya I could, but I would really like the opinion of a seasoned programmer. Advisers are always in a rush.

[WingedPanther]

I would STRONGLY encourage you to take technical writing. It will help you a lot when doing documentation (functional specs, technical specs, and user manuals).

After that, it depends a lot on what industry you want to get into. Stats is used throughout manufacturing and business, so being strong there will often come in handy. 3D graphics tends to make heavy use of linear algebra, which is also used heavily in differential equations (used heavily in engineering and simulations). Depending on what's in Calc IV, it may or may not be very relevant. You may also want to look at combinatorics/finite math as good filler courses.

[DustinStriplin]

thank you wingedpanther,

here is the description of calc IV for my college's website:
"Fourth quarter in the Calculus sequence. Topics include partial derivatives, multiple integrals, cylindrical and spherical coordinates, and line and surface integrals. The course culminates in Green's theorem,Stokes' theorem, and the Divergence Theorem. "

I was on the fence about technical writing. Based on what you said, I will definitely be taking it. My goal is to program with 3d graphics, so linear algebra seems like a winner to me.

thanks again!

[WingedPanther]

Calc IV could be useful, but I would say it depends on what you want to get into.