Boost Your Grad School Success with Math: A Chemical Engineer's Perspective

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical requirements for graduate school from the perspective of a chemical engineering undergraduate contemplating a switch to chemistry or materials science. The participant expresses a strong preference for applied mathematics over theoretical concepts, particularly disliking proofs and real analysis. They highlight interest in specific mathematical topics such as Partial Differential Equations, Vector Calculus, and Matrices, indicating a desire for practical applications rather than theoretical foundations. The consensus suggests focusing on applied math courses that align with engineering research needs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic mathematical concepts in engineering
  • Familiarity with matrices and their applications
  • Knowledge of calculus and its relevance to physical sciences
  • Exposure to differential equations and their significance in engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore Partial Differential Equations and their applications in engineering
  • Study Vector Calculus to understand fluid dynamics and electromagnetism
  • Learn about Multiple Integrals for advanced physics and engineering problems
  • Investigate Fourier Series and Transforms for signal processing applications
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students in engineering fields, particularly those considering graduate studies in chemistry or materials science, as well as anyone interested in applied mathematics in engineering contexts.

yaganon
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I'm an undergrad chemical engineer. I may switch to chemistry or materials science/engineering. I've taken abstract algebra, which sucked a lot. I should have taken the other professor's section.

Anyways, I hate proofs. I'm wondering if I should continue math with real analysis. I heard that some people in grad school have to take undergrad math courses because they needed it, but haven't taken them in college. I don't think I will be needing anymore theoretical math, since I hate proofs and I don't need them for research in engineering.

On the other hand, I LOVE applied math. The things you can do with matrices are very interesting to me.

Can I have some suggestions
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Some important topics I think are

Partial Differential Equations
Vector Calculus
Multiple Integrals
Fourier Series/ Transforms
Matrices/ Eigenvectors/ Eigenfunctions/ Eigenvalues

This is just some of the mathematics that I have covered in my physics degree to date.

Real analysis does include some topics like Hilbert Spaces, which I have come across. But it seems to cover convergence and limits of sequences and things like that. I reckon there are better mathematics courses you could take.
 

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