Hello, I am currently a California community college student and I am trying to figure out what classes to take to transfer to a UC for computer science.
I was under the impression I needed to take many IGETC / general education classes, but after looking at the ASSIST page for electrical engineering / computer science B.S. at UC Berkely, I see that I need to take these classes:
UCB Math 1A, 1B
UCB Math 53, 54
UCB Physics 7A, 7B
UCB English R1A and R1B
One from UCB Astronomy 7A or 7B or Bio 1A & 1AL or Bio 1B or Chem 1A/1AL or
Chem 1B or Chem 3A/L or 3B/L or Mcellbi 32 & 32L or Physics 7C
Am I correct in thinking that I only need to take these 9 classes to satisfy the requirements?
What GPA do I need to get in these classes to have a shot at getting in?
Does it hurt if I get a B or C in a class that is not mentioned here? Is my entire transcript taken into account, or only these classes?
The classes listed on ASSIST are for your major. You still have to satisfy the minimum transfer requirements, including 60 semester units along with a minimum of 2 english courses (satisfied), 1 math course (satisfied) and 4 courses in at least 2 areas of arts/humanities, social sciences or sciences (3/4 satisfied). Basically you would need an additional course in arts/humanities or social science if you take all the above courses and acquire a total of at least 60 semester units. There are additional strongly recommended courses you can take to be more competitive, like computer science and engineering (circuits).
UCB EECS is one of the most popular majors, so you should aim for a 3.8+ GPA (overall and major GPA) to realistically stand a chance, due to the tough competition. Your entire transcript is taken into account (overall GPA), but those courses in particular will be more important (your major GPA). For reference, last year the middle range GPA for accepted students was 3.88 - 4.00 with an 8% acceptance rate. A B or C will definitely hurt, but it won’t automatically render you ineligible, especially if it’s not in a class for your major.