To all those naysayers who insist you cannot learn epi without calc, I've taken calc and I've taken lots of epi. At the level most docs need to understand the principles, no calculus is needed.

@RachelAlter007 the pre-med requirements could be changed to really make a difference in those applying to med school. switch out physics2, calculus, maybe orgo2 for epi and psych

@katieperlman I didn't love physics 2 but I see why it's helpful when it comes to cardio and blood stuff. Although not at that high level!

@RachelAlter007 Pre-med advisor here; stats replaced cal as the preferred/required Math when the MCAT changed in 2015. Other related changes include Biochem vs Orgo preference, psych and soc added to the test, schools rec/req social science and upper bio.

@celestecentric I had to take 2 semesters of math when I was applying in 2017. Was told one of calc and one of stats.

@RachelAlter007 The only way fix a nation is to improve math skills. Rational decision only comes with stronger logics.

@RachelAlter007 Mostly agree. But not enough undergraduate epidemiology courses or affiliated graduate SPH at most colleges. How to solve that? Online course certification?

@RachelAlter007 But gotta use the derivatives to do the modeling?

@RachelAlter007 Even the average STEM job doesn't involve using calculus.

@RachelAlter007 Replace calculus with Greek/Roman mythology, Animal Husbandry, History of the Combustion Engine...anything else

@RachelAlter007 Most med schools don’t require calc anymore!! Usually statistics. Don’t know of any who require epi though

@RachelAlter007 Great idea! I’ve never used calculus in my job. Have a working knowledge of epi and throw in some public health law too. Physician’s focus on the person in front of them is good, but we neglect the population picture and that whole social determinants stuff.

@RachelAlter007 Replace everything over basic algebra with probability and something about exponential growth and I think a lot of these antimaskers would get it. I made my 8 year old graph out covid cases per day in April when I didn't know what else she should do, and she got it real quick.

@RachelAlter007 Interesting. I would replace epidemiology with statistics and risk management.

@RachelAlter007 Christ, I want to do redo the WHOLE curriculum period! Yes bio, yes Chem, am on fence about physics and orgo...would prefer more physiology, immunology, micro/virology classes. THEN...2 literature class, 1 philosophy class, 1 sociology class and 1something in urban planning.

@RachelAlter007 Disagree. Calculus is integral.

@RachelAlter007 Though I always enjoyed calculus, adding epidemiology to the curriculum would be great!

@RachelAlter007 I could roll with that.

@RachelAlter007 But basic epidemiology is based on calculus?

@RachelAlter007 Why? What does a family practice doctor need to know about epidemiology? Less math, and more BioChem.