Programs Do I have to know calculus before majoring in Astrophysics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around the preparation needed for a major in Astrophysics, specifically regarding math prerequisites. The original poster, an 18-year-old high school senior from California, inquires about the necessity of knowing calculus before starting college. Responses clarify that while prior knowledge of calculus is beneficial, it is not required for freshman year. Students can begin with college algebra and trigonometry, which are often prerequisites for calculus. The conversation emphasizes that students will have ample general education courses in their initial semesters, allowing them to gradually build their math skills. Participants reassure the poster that faculty will assist in selecting appropriate classes, and express enthusiasm for the journey into calculus. Overall, the key takeaway is that foundational math courses will adequately prepare students for their major, and there is no need for undue stress regarding math readiness.
Edward22
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Hello everyone, this is my first time posting on the site. I'm 18, live in California, still in high school, and I'm going to graduate come November. I'm going to either a state university, UC Irvine, or a community college and majoring in Astrophysics. The only math I know is algebra and geometry. My question is as follows. Do I have to know calculus and other math material prior to starting my freshman year? Or will I have to take additional classes to learn it?
 
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No, you do not need to know that stuff in your freshmen year. It is great if you do, then you may be able to start our on a higher math class. But there is no problem with taking college algebra and trig in college before starting in calculus. Depending on the curriculum, you may not be able to do a lot of classes related to your major initially, but that isn't a big deal. You'll have enough general ed stuff to do in your first couple of semesters that you won't necessarily need to start on your astrophysics classes right away.

Don't sweat it, I'm an electrical engineering major and I started with college algebra and trig, and it hasn't been a big deal at all.
 
Thanks for clarifying things for me. I wasn't sure about all that stuff and was fretting over it, terribly. If the state university or community college I attend allows me, I'll take as many additional math classes as I can. The more the better, right?
 
Either school will let you take as many math classes as you want as long as you meet whatever prerequisite. Early on it will be a pretty straight path though. As long as you did good in high school on your math, they will probably start you in college algebra for your first semester, and then trigonometry in your second semester. After that you will have a long love affair with calculus for a couple of years.

Don't sweat it though. As long as you know where you want to go, the faculty will help you pick the classes to get you there.
 
That sounds terrific, I can't wait to start with calculus. Thanks for your your help, much appreciated. :biggrin:
 

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