To pursue a degree in physical chemistry, students must focus on foundational subjects including chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Essential mathematics courses include Calculus 1-3 and an introductory course in Differential Equations. Basic undergraduate physics, specifically mechanics and electromagnetism (E&M), is sufficient, as advanced physics concepts will be covered in physical chemistry courses. Graduate students should aim to take additional mathematics courses such as Real and Complex Analysis, Linear Algebra, and Partial Differential Equations to prepare for specialization.
PREREQUISITESStudents considering a physical chemistry degree, undergraduate and graduate chemistry majors, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations necessary for advanced studies in physical chemistry.
gravenewworld said:I'm not sure if you are talking about getting a Pchem degree as an undergraduate or a graduate student. There really is no "P chem" specific degree as an undergraduate, but if you want to set your self up to specialize in physical chem. as a grad student then you must take as many math courses as possible I would say. I think basic undergraduate mechanics and E&M should be all the physics background you would need. The rest of the physics needed will be taught to you in your P chem courses. The would be no need to take quantum mechanics as a phyiscs course and take the same thing again in a P chem course. The math, however is where most chem. students get stuck. Proper undergraduate preparation for P chem would be Calc 1-3 and an intro course to Diff. Eq. If you were going to specialize in P chem in grad. school I would say take as much math as possible. Calc 1-3, Real and Complex analysis, as much linear algebra as possible, Hilbert Spaces, some abstract algebra/group theory, partial differential eq. , the list can go on.