Is it Possible to Challenge Real Analysis I and II for Grad School Credit?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the possibility of challenging Real Analysis I and II for graduate school credit at a university. Participants explore the feasibility of this option, considering the course content and the implications of attempting such a challenge.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the ability to assess their own knowledge of Real Analysis in relation to the requirements for passing the challenge test.
  • Another participant suggests that if the individual is uncertain about their preparedness, they may want to reconsider attempting the challenge, especially given the potential consequences of failing.
  • It is proposed that the individual should consult the professor regarding the course content and the feasibility of preparing independently for the challenge.
  • Concerns are raised about missing out on valuable classroom experiences by skipping the course, even if the challenge is successful.
  • A participant expresses skepticism about the university's policy of charging the same fee for a challenge test as for a full course, suggesting that other institutions may offer more affordable alternatives.
  • One participant believes that successfully challenging the course is possible, especially with the guidance of a mentor.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility and advisability of challenging the courses, with no consensus on whether it is a good idea or the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of individual preparation and the specific content covered by the professor, which remains uncertain. The discussion reflects a variety of perspectives on the implications of attempting to challenge the courses.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering challenging advanced mathematics courses for credit, particularly in the context of graduate studies.

tmbrwlf730
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Hello. The university I attend allows you to challenge some courses for grad school. Two of them are Real Analysis I and Real Analysis II. This made me consider trying it. The cost of the challenge test is the same as the cost if you took the course so it really has to count. I wanted to get some opinions about whether you think it is possible. I'm looking to challenge the course during the summer. Here's the description of the course so you can get an idea of what it contains. Thanks in advance.

Course Description:
Rigorous discussion of the topics introduced in calculus. Sequences, series, limits, continuity, differentiation
 
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Isn't your question equivalent to "Tell me how much Real Analysis I know, and compare it to how much I need to know to test out of it?" I don't think we have the information to answer either half of this.
 
I don't know. I would say that, with the stakes being so high (the cost of an entire course and a failing mark on your transcript if you don't pass that test), if you have to ask that question, you shouldn't try to. And between now and Summer, you've got an entire semester in which to take that class, no?

If you're dead set though, maybe start by asking the professor what the content is, how feasible it would be for someone with your preparation to test out of it, if it would be possible to prepare on your own, and even if testing out is a good idea. Even if we did know your exact level of preparation, we can't necessarily know for sure exactly what that particular professor will choose to cover. And even if you do manage to test out, I'd be worried that skipping over such a fundamental course might be missing out on an important classroom experience.
 
That sounds a bit crazy to charge you the same amount for a test as for an entire course! Are you sure you're at a decent university? I know a lot of schools accept CLEP exams, which are a couple hundred bucks and can replace an entire course. Granted, they're for introductory material.

Anyways, it's doable. It'd be better if you could find a mentor who could guide you through the material.
 

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