Classes to Take???

<h1>1 Not sure what type of engineering I specifically want to pursue.</h1>

<h1>2 No formal math or physics in the last 7 years (was a professional soldier).</h1>

<h1>3 Currently at a large community college.</h1>

<pre><code> -Currently studying business but desire to switch
-Will transfer in 1 or 2 semesters
</code></pre>

<p>I'm nervous about trying to pick up math and science again. </p>

<p>What are some classes that I should start out with that won't have me in over my head, but will transfer for program credit across a broad spectrum of engineering majors??</p>

<p>Well, I would imagine a course on computers for scientists and engineers - maybe using matlab or something similar - would transfer to almost any engineering, and maybe even CS. All engineering majors must take such a class here, and I believe CS majors can take such classes as electives... I might be mistaken. Either way, if you're not looking at CS, a few computer courses geared towards engineering could work. They're practical, light on the theory (so it won't matter overmuch that you've been away for a while) and can even be fun, if it turns out you like that kind of thing.
Most schools also have general education requirements. A safe bet is that you'll need a couple of classes in: english lit & language, history & social sciences, art, etc. These credits should transfer to any curriculum, and shouldn't be too excruciating.</p>

<p>You should talk to admissions counselors at schools you'd be interested in transferring to, as they can tell you what classes you should take, and transfer requirements. The Calculus 1-3 series, as well as calculus-based physics 1-3 should definitely transfer to any engineering program. Basic English composition and history classes will likely also be required. It always helps to get a start in programming too. If you'd start your first semester with Calc 1, Physics 1, a basic programming class, english, and maybe another elective it would be a good start. Best of luck.</p>

<p>Oh, and if you're not ready for calculus, you should take a math placement test at your C.C. and they can place you in a correct course. You probably don't want to start physics until you are enrolled in calc.</p>

<p>I already have 35 credit hours in econ, english, sociology, philosophy, spanish, etc... So I'm pretty well-covered for electives already... hahaha</p>

<p>As a point of reference, I was waitlisted at Stanford for fall transfer. Due to the brutal 2% transfer acceptance rate this year, I did not get the green light...but was told by the assistant dean that most years I would have gotten the fat packet, as they only put a handful of kids on a waitlist (his words).</p>

<p>So this isn't really a matter of aptitude, but rather of conditioning (or the lack thereof). I feel like I will get monkey stomped by Calc, as I will just be absolutely rusty... I also stopped math after trig/AP stats, and didn't take Calc in HS b/c I was lazy...</p>

<p>So what is the best way to quickly get up to speed? Should I grab a tutor? I REALLY don't want to take a slow-paced, bogus class that won't transfer (or catch me up aggressively)... and I want to jump into physics, calc, etc. ASAP.***</p>

<p>***Now that I think about it, my originally posted question should have been more like this: how do I "try" engineering, so I can decide whether or not to pursue this course of study?</p>

<p>Why don't you take pre-calc instead of jumping into calc? Along with that maybe you can do a low level physics or chemistry that your school offers.</p>

<p>I wouldn't get any university credit for those...</p>