Which classes to take?

[igotshoe]

So its scheduling time for the spring semester and I need some help picking out classes. Please rank these classes in order of how they would help my acceptance into a PhD program.

Math
-Cryptography
-Applied Modern Algebra

Statistics
-Intro to Design and Analysis (Introduction to the linear model, the complete and fractional factorial experiment, and the completely random, randomized complete block, Latin square, and split-plot experimental designs.)
-Data Analysis (Stata case studies)

[asquare]

It depends on what classes you've already taken and what the rest of your profile looks like. The math classes you list are not the most relevant for an econ PhD; what math classes would help the most depends on what you've already taken. The data analysis class may be useful if you haven't done previous work in Stata, but is a less powerful signal to admissions committees if you need to beef up your math background. You'll get better advice by posting your complete profile, or at least a list of courses you have taken.

[Olm]

It sounds like you already have a very strong math background. In which case, it really doesn't matter what you take at this point.

[asianeconomist]

Yup. I agree with previous posters. When you're looking to take such non-core Math courses, then you must have already taken all the core courses. Btw, what will covered in the Algebra course ?

[Harry Lime]

With Cryptography you could learn how to disappear and assume a new identity; you could come back and apply to schools under several aliases.. As tempting as that is, I'd go with Data Analysis.

[igotshoe]

Well my background is a long story, but short version is I'm a senior who just decided I want to go the PhD route. I have intentions of a post-bacc next year to bump up my math/stat.

I'm currently in Calc 2 and Intermediate Stat, with Calc 3 and Mathematical Concepts (Intro to Proofs) in the spring. Due to prereqs I only posted courses available to me.

here is a course description for the algebra class

- Finite fields, algebraic coding theory, Boolean algebras, monoids, finite
state, and Turing machines

[asianeconomist]

Data Analysis

[italos]

Originally Posted by asianeconomist

Data Analysis

I agree!

[buckykatt]

I agree that Data Analysis sounds like the most directly applicable class. But I'd only take it if you'd truly find it more interesting than Algebra, or if you thought it might position you for a good recommendation or research experience with the prof.

[Harry Lime]

Originally Posted by igotshoe

- Finite fields, algebraic coding theory, Boolean algebras, monoids, finite
state, and Turing machines

There's a very similar class to this that is offered at my school that I was considering taking next semester because I can fit it into my schedule and I'd like to take any math rather than nothing.

Can anyone tell me if these topics are useful in ANY way down the line? Not even in economics, but just in general math thinking?