This side of the pond they generally make you learn linear algebra before DiffEQ so that you grok that the order you fold the paper determines the way the plane flies. Is it different over there?
So, non-honours physics majors take a year-long course in linear algebra that, during the third semester, merges in this unholy abomination that combines Calc III, differential forms (TL;DR: different lingo to express vectors/tensors more generally), and differential equations... during the same semester you have your first Big-Boy Pants physics classes (Classical Mechanics and Phys III: Vibrations and Waves). It's a horrible abortion that my uni perpetuates for no fucking reason, and I don't blame anyone who needs help connecting the dots. I also made it a tad simpler than the problem was, so that non-STEM hubskiers' eyes won't glaze over. Didn't mean to downplay their ability.