Retake a C+ in upper level physics elective?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision to retake a computational physics course after receiving a C+ grade, particularly in the context of personal circumstances affecting academic performance. Participants explore the implications of retaking the course on GPA, transcript visibility, and overall learning outcomes.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses distress over receiving a C+ in a course they were excited about and considers retaking it to improve their grade and programming skills.
  • Another participant notes that the impact of retaking a course on GPA and transcript visibility can vary by university, suggesting that the original grade may still be visible even if it does not affect GPA.
  • A participant mentions that both grades will remain on the transcript and affect GPA, indicating that retaking the course will not erase the previous grade.
  • One viewpoint suggests that since the participant passed the course, retaking it may not be necessary, especially if receiving a C is not typical for them.
  • Another participant advises focusing on the potential learning benefits of retaking the course rather than solely on transcript implications, recommending consultation with local advisors for tailored advice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on whether retaking the course is advisable. Some argue against it, suggesting that the participant's overall academic record can mitigate the impact of one poor grade, while others emphasize the potential benefits of improving knowledge and skills through a retake.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of understanding institutional policies regarding grade visibility and GPA calculations, which may vary significantly between universities.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering retaking courses due to unsatisfactory grades, particularly in upper-level STEM electives, and those seeking advice on academic decision-making in light of personal circumstances.

fluorescent125
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I had some medical problems last semester and ended up "bombing" all my classes; I got a smattering of B+/-'s in major courses, A-'s in non-major courses, and a C+ in a computational physics course. This last one especially distressed me because I was so excited to take the class, but things fell out of my control towards the end of the semester. I was considering going the computational physics route in grad school too, and my current research involves a lot of programming (so not only does the grade make me look bad, but I feel like I could have improved a lot as a programmer but never had the time to finish anything in the course).

I did work a lot for the class though, and feel like I have surveyed a good amount of the material (though I'm probably unable to implement anything). I'm leaning towards retaking the course next semester (with the intention of getting an A+/A), but I'm not sure if there's anything wrong with that route.

Other than things involving personal decisions (e.g. "Are you willing to spend more time of your life on this material next semester?," financial reasons, etc.) is there anything I should be aware of when choosing to retake a class like this? (An upper level major elective--so not required for graduation.)
 
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How it affects your GPA and whether it will show on your transcript may vary between universities, so it's worth checking out. Also be warned that if it shows on your transcript but does not affect your GPA, some grad schools may recalculate your GPA when receiving your transcript by their standards (it's screwed over a few of my peers).
 
@Dishsoap I already asked my advisors, both grades will remain on my transcript and both will affect my GPA.
 
fluorescent125 said:
@Dishsoap I already asked my advisors, both grades will remain on my transcript and both will affect my GPA.

I don't see any reason to retake the course, you passed. If it's abnormal for you to receive C's, that will be reflected in your transcript and can reasonably be chalked up to one bad semester, which happens.
 
I'd base the decision more on what you would expect to learn by retaking the course rather than your transcript. You probably have some local advisers familiar enough with the specific course, your current skills, and you aspirations to give you great advice. You'd probably benefit more from a retake if it was taught by a different prof assigning different homework and projects than your first attempt.
 

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