> Not in my experience. It's possible to get the equivalent of a bachelors and masters in math within two year
Seriously.
In fact, most people who learn this math learn it in a period of 2-3 years. Far from being impossible, learning this math in a few years is normal. It's not even a full time job. Most people learn all this math while also doing other classes and school stuff. Even a very dedicated math major probably only spends 20-25 hours a week actually studying math. I'm not sure much more than that is sustainable for most people anyway.
Now, I'll grant, this is going to be a lot harder to do without the structure of well thought out syllabi and lectures, but it's certainly manageable.
If you're already a grad student you can usually take any undergrad course at your institution for free. It will slow down your progress on your graduate degree, but you might as well do it right if it's what you really want.
Seriously.
In fact, most people who learn this math learn it in a period of 2-3 years. Far from being impossible, learning this math in a few years is normal. It's not even a full time job. Most people learn all this math while also doing other classes and school stuff. Even a very dedicated math major probably only spends 20-25 hours a week actually studying math. I'm not sure much more than that is sustainable for most people anyway.
Now, I'll grant, this is going to be a lot harder to do without the structure of well thought out syllabi and lectures, but it's certainly manageable.