stimpsonjkatz

Hey guys, I'm a chemistry major looking to go into MSE (materials science/eng). All the MSE programs I have seen say that a chemistry or physics degree is accepted (although a couple more classes may be required, but its not many).

My question is how do grad schools compare chemistry or other pure science GPA's to engineering GPA's? I'm looking at about a 3.83 cumulative / 3.90 junior & senior year/ 3.93 major GPA, which sounds impressive but I am sure is nothing compared to engineering majors with the same GPA. If it helps, I go to georgia tech (famous for its engineering, not so famous for its chemistry but not bad). I am looking to go straight to a PhD program...

Anyone have any idea where this would put me in the eyes of engineers? Also, any other tips on making the conversion? Thanks a lot!

hkapoo

I'm not sure on the specifics, but that is very impressive. I imagine you should be able to get into almost any engineering PhD program.

im_blue

If you're a chemistry major applying to MSE programs, you should have some research background in MSE. This would show your interest in the field as well as back up your GPA.

uefastation

I'm a Chemistry major at a LAC with about the same stats (3.82 overall/3.95 major) and I had no problem getting in to MSE Ph.D programs. You also don't need MSE related research beforehand; well at least I didn't. If you have enough research experience, you will have your pick of any Top 10 MSE program. At most of the visits I went to, about half of the people were not MSE undergrads so don't feel intimidated by your inexperience. I have often heard that Chemistry and Physics majors are probably more prepared since they get more fundamental coursework than the little bit of this and that you get as a MSE undergrad.

I can't really talk about the conversion since I haven't started yet, but I don't think the conversion will be too hard since they are closely related fields. You'll just have to take a bunch of courses to catch up what you didn't take as an undergrad.

Mr Payne

You're fine.

mydegisunacred

My materials science friends say that their departments facilitate to incoming grad students, since many of them are out of department.

stimpsonjkatz

Thanks everybody!

uefastation, if you dont mind since you're story sounds a lot like mind, how extensive was your research? Any publications (unfortunately, no for me)? And good luck, hope the coversion is easy for you.