Could I self-study AP Physics C reasonably and easily?

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

<p>I am very disappointed to say that my school does not currently offer AP Physics C, but only AP Physics 1 and 2 (previously AP Physics B). After doing some research on CollegeBoard's website, I've found that AP Physics 2 (which is what I'm currently enrolled in for my senior year) is not as rigorous as AP Physics C. AP Physics 2 is supposedly meant for non-physics/engineering majors who need only basic study in physics. But since I plan on studying either mechanical engineering or physics in college, I think AP Physics C would be very helpful for me. Based on this information, would it be possible for me to self-study the two AP Physics C tests?:</p>

<p>I have completed AP Calculus AB and BC, along with one year of introductory physics
I am enrolled in AP Physics 2 for the upcoming school year
I will be studying this summer for the SAT Physics test using AP Physics B material that my teacher lent me</p>

<p>My only worry about self-studying is that I will not be formally learning the material like those who would in a class. I may be testing out of the class in college, but I'm worried I may not "master" the material like others who take the class (not at my school, but at other schools). Any thoughts?</p>

2

<p>I think it would be more useful for you to just wait and take calculus-based physics in college. Colleges don’t expect you to take it before that if your school doesn’t offer Physics C (self-studying doesn’t really help with admissions), and you don’t get the same experience self-studying a lab science as you do taking the class. </p>

3

<p>That’s what I figured. Thanks for the advice. I’ll stick with AP Physics 2.</p>

4

<p>Halcyon Heather is correct, it is better to just wait.</p>

5

<p>I’m sad that my school is only offering AP Physics 1. I already took regular senior Physics as a prereq for Physics B and it was basically a less rigorous AP Physics 1, but now my school has oriented its Physics program just for the current sophomores, only offering 1 and not 2.</p>