Which is more valuable, chemistry or physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the comparative value of pursuing degrees in chemistry versus physics for someone with a background in mathematics, particularly in relation to graduate studies in engineering or geosciences. Participants explore the implications of each choice on future academic and career opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to understand which degree, chemistry or physics, would be more beneficial for graduate studies in engineering or geosciences.
  • Another participant suggests that the most relevant path would be to pursue a degree directly in engineering or geosciences, emphasizing the importance of aligning with specific program admission requirements.
  • A third participant notes that both chemistry and physics require similar levels of mathematics, questioning the need to choose between them if the goal is to enter engineering or geosciences.
  • Some participants argue that chemistry may be more applicable in practical scenarios compared to physics, while others highlight the value of a math background in both fields.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on which degree is more valuable, with differing opinions on the relevance of chemistry versus physics for engineering and geosciences. Some advocate for direct study in engineering or geosciences instead of choosing between chemistry and physics.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the importance of specific program admission requirements and the potential for different career paths based on the chosen degree, but do not resolve the implications of these choices.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a double major in mathematics with either chemistry or physics, as well as those interested in graduate studies in engineering or geosciences.

ryanj123
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I posted a thread earlier trying to decide which degree I should add to my BS in math, I want to step into the world of science on a more physical level, either through chemistry or physics. Ideally, something that will help my chances for graduate study in engineering, geo sciences, or the related.

Which will be more useful?
Can advanced mathematics be used in chemistry?
Which would make me a better candidate for graduate admission?


Any double majors in chem/math or phys/math that could give some advice, or any opinions in general would be appreciated :)
 
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I would have thought this would go without saying, but if you want to get into graduate study for engineering or geographical sciences, you should take engineering or geographical sciences. In fact, if there are praticular programs your'e interested in, check out the admission requirements. Sometimes they can be very specific.
 
Just clarification, you are currently major in Math?
I know that Physics and math are brothers...(this make me think of the joke on xkcd, "the purist subject/major. And apparently math and physics are the most, or worst. :D)
At least in my school, I think the chemistry-major people had to take about the same amount of math as physics people. So if you are math major, then it should be about the same.
Not questioning your purpose, but why not just simply major in engineer, or geo science? Why get around with physics and or chemistry?
And as I said at last thread, Physics is less useful in the application realm, where as chemistry is more useful.
 
If you want to be an engineer, why not study engineering? I know several people with majors in both math and a field of engineering. Your personal statement will be more meaningful, your application will be competitive, and you can easily find well paying work should you not go on to grad school.
 

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