<p>I've heard a lot of students, especially preps, sign up for the computer science without the right math courses at PEA. Can the course be taken with not haven't taken the higher math course? Will it make it too difficult? </p>
<p>Not sure if I should have the S take the computer science class a little later after taking the higher/difficult math course. I want to help him protect his GPA for college. Let me know your thoughts.</p>
<p>For a typical CS programming course, discrete math is more important than calculus, and “mathematical maturity” is most important of all. If you can give me more details of the requirements at your S’s school, then I can give you my opinion of the specifics.</p>
<p>The math, as a parent, doesn’t look particularly difficult but son is now transitioning to Exeter in the more challenging math while attempting a 300 level class in CS seems risky. </p>
<p>The 300 level courses are for uppers and he might be biting off more than necessary at this point especially with APs, PSAT and possibly SATs. It might makes more sense to take it once he eases into the higher level math and make a comfortable transition. Let me know if it would be wise to push back on taking CS later.</p>
<p>One computer science class is required.</p>
<p>From the Course Catalogue (which is on the Exeter website):
CSC205 algorithms and public policy, (privacy, censorship)
CSC211 Algoithms and the Dynamic Web (create a website),
CSC315 algorithms and software (those interested in AP start with 315 and continue through CSC420 to CSC441).</p>
<p>The 200 level classes are intro/intermediate in difficulty</p>
<p>315/420/441 is reputed to be quite difficult. 400 level classes are advanced/college level classes. The head of the Comp Sci Dept. met with parents at revisit day and recommended AGAINST preps taking it because initially, most people do not get good grades (very stressful for a prep first term), and it is very different from the math that students have had experience with. Some programming experience may be helpful but is not required. Basic algebra is a prerequisite</p>
<p>Sorry, OP, I would hate to make a specific recommendation based on the little information I have.</p>
<p>Let me just say that the more math you have, the easier programming and algorithms are. Even if there is no specific prereq, it is often the case that the additional maturity that one gains with advanced math will help make CS courses easier. </p>
<p>Reading between the lines of what you are asking, if you are hearing from your school that it will be easier for your S if he waits, then I agree 100%.</p>
<p>I’m planning to start with CS315 next year as a prep.
What math is necessary for CS?
Do you think I will be alright if I can already program in Java and if I am quite advanced in math?</p>
<p>There are preps who take CS and love it–just depends on your interests. </p>
<p>The thing to keep in mind about Exeter is that classes take a lot of time to prep. for–and unlike many other schools, the classes you enjoy the most can take the most time to prep. So when people caution you against taking some demanding classes prep year, it’s mostly because you don’t yet know how much time different classes are going to take or what the best balance for you will be.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for your comments. Ran into another set of parents around town who mentioned taking 315 as a prep for their son was a huge mistake. The math requirement is not that high but some kids make a better transition than others and had negatively impact their child.</p>
<p>I think I’ll help son protect his GPA and ease into the higher programing class after he get a strong footing - many thanks for your feedback, comments and support.</p>