From physics BSc to materials PhD, will bad math grades hurt?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the impact of receiving a C in an introductory discrete math course on applications to materials science PhD programs. The individual, who is double majoring in physics and applied math, expresses concern about their grades, particularly since they already have a C from a previous statistical physics course. They have strong grades in other math courses and are from a prestigious undergraduate program. The key question is whether a C will significantly affect their graduate school applications, especially considering they have strong research recommendations. The consensus suggests that if dropping the course is an option without penalty, it would be advisable to do so to avoid further negative impact on their GPA.
faradayfan
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hi all,

I have an urgent question.. I am currently applying to materials science PhD, and double majoring in physics and applied math. I haven't had much time to study for my (intro) discrete math course and will likely get a C... I already have a C from sophomore year statistical physics course, so I am bummed. All my other grades are mostly A's (in math) and mostly B's (in physics), as I am coming from a top undergrad program and grading is pretty harsh.

How much would materials science gradschools care about a C in discrete math, given I have two great research recs? Should I opt out of the class at this point while I still have the option, despite having done work for it ?

Thanks for any help...
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You have the option of dropping the class with no penalty? Definitely do that then.
 

Thread 'Self Learning Math/Physics'

Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
View full post »

Thread 'What should I do if I found a paper with same result as mine?'

Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...
View full post »

Similar threads

2nd BSc or MSc in physics for physics-PhD in top program in USA
Replies
28
Views
3K
Admissions Want a PhD in math, but stuck in a physics degree. What to do?
Replies
4
Views
2K
Finding a PhD program which is compatible with GPA 3.485
Replies
9
Views
2K
PhD in theoretical physics and a PhD in Pure Maths at an old age
Replies
17
Views
2K
Please someone respond -- I need to know if I continue with CS
Replies
14
Views
2K
Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory
Replies
8
Views
1K
BSc Physics: University Options for a second bachelor's degree
Replies
20
Views
4K
Programs From a Nuclear Engineering BS, will I be able to do MS & PhD in Physics?
Replies
6
Views
2K
Any tips for doing a PhD in theoretical physics?
Replies
21
Views
3K
Admissions Curious about my grad school prospects
Replies
3
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top