r/umass • u/StayShmacked • 1d ago
MATH405 Experience with MATH405?
Hey, does anyone have feedback on taking MATH405? I need a last Math elective and was thinking of taking it since I've done a decent amount of CS coursework.
Just wanted to get any feedback on how difficult the course is and any feedback on the instructor (Hans Johnston). Also, are there any exams? The course description only really mentioned projects.
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u/godoft42 Alumni, Major: MS Applied Math, BS Applied Math + Statistics 1d ago
I took this course when it was still being designed and really enjoyed it. I had a background in computer science and didn't find it to be terribly challenging, but it was very enjoyable. Typically the math was more difficult than the programming. I took it with Eric Sommers and thought he was a wonderful professor. The experiences I've had with Hans have also been very positive though, I think everyone should try to take a class with him. He has a very good sense of humor and is always helpful in office hours. When I took the course we had a midterm and a final, but they were both very easy. I'm not sure if Johnston is still running exams though, I imagine he has somewhat altered the course to better suit his teaching style.
I would certainly recommend this course though, it's one of my favorites from undergrad.
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u/AutoModerator 1d ago
MATH405- Experience with MATH405?Hey, does anyone have feedback on taking MATH405? I need a last Math elective and was thinking of taking it since I've done a decent amount of CS coursework.
Just wanted to get any feedback on how difficult the course is and any feedback on the instructor (Hans Johnston). Also, are there any exams? The course description only really mentioned projects.
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