Materials Science grad school questions

In summary, the conversation is about a rising junior physics major and math minor who is considering pursuing materials science for grad school. They have not yet taken intro-level chemistry and are wondering how much chemistry they should take to prepare for grad school. They are also concerned about scheduling conflicts and whether only completing the first year of chemistry will require them to take remedial courses. The conversation also touches on the difference between materials science and materials engineering. One person thinks that intro chemistry should be a requirement for any scientist or engineer before taking senior level electives, while the other is not an expert in materials science.
  • #1
myranaira
40
1
I am a rising junior physics major and math minor at a small liberal arts school. I'm interested in possibly pursuing materials science for grad school (hoping to complete a PhD). However, I haven't yet taken intro-level chemistry.

Originally I was planning to complete the intro sequence in my senior year, but I've heard that it'd be better for me to also take some orgo, analytical chemistry, etc. to provide a more solid foundation for materials science. On the other hand, I've also read on various graduate school websites for Materials science that due to its interdisciplinary nature, students with both physics and chem backgrounds are accepted.

How much chemistry should I aim to take to get a solid foundation for materials science grad school, should I chose to pursue it? One of the main reasons I'm reluctant to take intro chem this year is because of scheduling conflicts. I'd have to take it at a different school or drop General Relativity, which I've heard would be useful for applied physics grad school - another area I'm looking into.

I've also read on some program websites that some incoming MS grad students are required to take remedial courses in materials science if they haven't taken them in undergrad. Would finishing only the first year of chemistry increase the amount of remedial courses I'd have to take?

Finally, could anyone explain the subtle difference between "materials science" and "materials engineering," if there is any?

Thanks in advance for reading and answering!
 
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  • #2
I am surprised that general relativity is viewed as being useful for applied physics grad school. Sure, there may be a few uses (I have heard that high order corrections for GPS require GR ...), but I would think that intro chemistry should be required for any kind of pure/applied scientist and engineer before one worries about senior level electives. It is certainly beneficial. I am not a material scientist, so will not pretend to know any more than this.

jason
 

Related to Materials Science grad school questions

1. What is Materials Science?

Materials Science is a multidisciplinary field that combines principles from physics, chemistry, engineering, and biology to study the properties, structure, and performance of materials. It involves understanding how materials are made, how they behave, and how they can be manipulated to create new and improved materials for various applications.

2. What are the requirements for graduate school in Materials Science?

The requirements for graduate school in Materials Science may vary depending on the program and institution, but typically, applicants are expected to have a bachelor's degree in a related field such as chemistry, physics, or engineering. They may also be required to have a strong background in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Some programs may also require GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

3. What career opportunities are available for Materials Science graduates?

Materials Science graduates have a wide range of career opportunities in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, energy, and healthcare. They can work as materials engineers, research scientists, product development specialists, quality control engineers, and more. Additionally, many Materials Science graduates also pursue careers in academia and research institutions.

4. How long does it typically take to complete a Materials Science graduate program?

The length of a Materials Science graduate program can vary depending on the degree level and whether the student is pursuing a thesis or non-thesis option. A master's degree program can take 1-2 years to complete, while a Ph.D. program can take 4-5 years. It may also take longer if the student is working while completing the program.

5. What skills are necessary to succeed in a Materials Science graduate program?

To succeed in a Materials Science graduate program, students should have a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry. They should also have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to think critically and creatively. Good communication skills, time management, and the ability to work independently and in teams are also important for success in this field.

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