I'm a junior in undergrad, considering applying to PhD programs next year in Microbiology and/or Immunology. There are two Biochem courses at my undergrad, the "easier" one-term class, and the "harder" 3 term sequence. I'd like to take the 3 term sequence to gain a deeper understanding of the area, but here are the prereqs:

 

Quantitative Analysis (1 term)

Calculus-Based Physics (3 terms)

Physical Chemistry for the Biosciences (2 terms)

Organic Chemistry (3 terms)

 

As a Molecular/Microbiology major, I don't know if I can fit all of them in. I know I'm taking the Ochem sequence, but out of QA, physics, and Pchem, which would you say is the LEAST essential for doing well in Biochemistry? Thanks!

From what I remember when studying biochemistry, physics would be least essential. Physical Chemistry and Quantitative Analysis would be far more useful to you.

I'm surprised... at most schools, a physics sequence is required for any and most science majors.

I'm surprised... at most schools, a physics sequence is required for any and most science majors.

I would think physical chemistry would be more important as it would use applied physics more.

I'm surprised... at most schools, a physics sequence is required for any and most science majors.

 

True, but there are varying levels of physics.

 

My undergrad courses required non-calculus based, but for those hoping to take p-chem, calculus based were required.

 

To the OP: physics is probably the least required of the ones listed, but I wouldn't negate it entirely. Do they offer it in the off-time (winter or summer)?