Can I Study Physics Without AP Physics or Calculus?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of studying physics in college without prior experience in AP Physics or Calculus. Participants explore the implications of such a background on college admissions and preparedness for a physics major.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about college admissions being reluctant to accept students without prior calculus-based physics experience.
  • Another participant asserts that it is possible to major in physics without having taken calculus or physics in high school, emphasizing that catching up is feasible.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that many students have successfully pursued physics majors without high school calculus or physics, indicating that these subjects can be learned later.
  • Concerns are raised about the adequacy of preparation compared to peers who have taken these courses.
  • It is noted that many colleges allow students to begin their physics major by taking introductory calculus and physics courses in their freshman year.
  • One participant clarifies that calculus-based introductory physics primarily serves conceptual purposes and does not heavily rely on calculus for problem-solving.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that it is possible to study physics without prior AP Physics or Calculus, but there are differing opinions on the implications for college admissions and preparedness compared to peers.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about college requirements and the nature of calculus-based physics courses remain unresolved, as do the specific policies of individual colleges regarding admissions criteria.

Pat12345
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I know this question will likely depend on the college that it is applied to, but...
If I were to not have taken any sort of Calculas, only pre-calculas in High School along with not taking AP Physics of any sort in High School would you still be able to enter college and study Physics?

If this is an unlikely possibility what would be the best ways/books/courses to teach yourself Calculas along with more advanced Physics.
 
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Of course you can, just takes effort.
 
I know many people who didn't take calculus or physics in high school who went on to major in physics. You might be less prepared than some of your peers, but you can catch up pretty easily, those are only 2 classes.
 
My main concern is that colleges will be reluctant to allow me to pursue a physics major if I do not have experience with calculas based physics beforehand.
 
Why do you not find these responses reassuring?

Have you looked at the websites of the colleges you are interested in? Do any of them - at all - suggest that high school calculus based physics is required?
 
Most colleges set up their physics major so students can start by taking Calculus I and II during the freshman year, alongside the calculus-based introductory physics sequence.

Calculus-based intro physics doesn't really use much calculus for actual calculations and problem-solving. It's more for conceptual purposes, to simplify some derivations.
 

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