Advice on classes

We have compiled tips on classes at MIT based on the experiences of upperclassmen.

Advice for freshmen

It is okay to take 8.01 and 8.02 rather than 8.012 and 8.022: it is better to learn the material well than to just get by and not really understand the concepts in the more difficult courses.
The same reasoning can be applied to math classes (like taking 18.03 over the theoretical 18.034).
8.282J (Introduction to Astronomy) is a good 9 unit class offered in the spring that you can take as a fifth class while staying within the credit limit.

It is worthwhile to take 18.06 before 8.05, because knowledge of linear algebra will help tremendously in quantum mechanics.
It is also helpful to take 8.09 before 8.05 as it will help you understand quantum mechanics better conceptually.
Even though it is not required, it is important to take 8.09 because a portion of the physics GRE covers material from this course.
Outside the set physics curriculum, take classes appropriate for your interests and intended subfield. Senior year especially, you have lots of flexibility in your schedule to take physics (and non-physics) electives.

The Department of Physics and the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences offer courses in astronomy and astrophysics. This is the MIT astronomy website.

There is an astronomy minor available. The requirements can be found in the MIT course catalog.