I am a Computer Science Major and I am aware that I need to take up to calculus 2/3. My first semester I dropped my math class with a W because there was only online math available and I couldn’t handle it. My second semester I failed math, now I am taking college algebra for the third time and will receive a D in the class. I am currently attending Cypress Community College and would like to transfer to a CSUF. I might take college algebra at a different community college, a sister school. I would like to know if I should be worried. is this going to ruin my transcript? Or will it only take longer for me to transfer?
1st sem (W)
2nd sem (F)
3rd sem (D)
Almost no college will accept you into their CS program with three tries of College Algebra ending with a D.
You’ll need to show that it was a fluke by axing your future math courses. I don’t think a school would let you in without seeing how well you do in calc 1 at least.
I agree with above poster and also you need to re evaluate your major choice. Other than getting through Calculus, CS majors usually need to take Discrete Math and Statistics. If you are struggling in College Algebra it will only get more difficult in the required Math courses.
Good luck
@Jpgranier I’m going to take College Algebra again until I pass, but I was just wondering if by failing three times, would that effect how CSU accept me? or will colleges only look at the passing grade?
Honestly, if you’re SUPER set on going into CS, I’d try to apply with just your high school stats.
Not only will they see you failed basic college algebra (which is nothing compared to Calculus), you’ll also have a pretty damaged GPA.
@Gumbymom would OP be able to start at a different CC without giving them his/her previous CC transcripts? A ‘fresh start’ per se
There is no way to hide your record at the first CC. There is a national clearing house which has a record of OP’s attending the CC. OP, you can go to another CC and you will start with new GPA there, but your past transcripts will still be required to transfer anywhere. Also, OP cannot start as a Freshman at any CSU once you have taken college courses post graduation so you will be considered a transfer. CSU’s only accept Junior level transfers, 60 semester/90 quarter units.
I really think OP needs to seriously consider another major since CS is very math heavy. @frydryce, you might want consider Information Systems/Information Technology instead which has less math but still in the computer field with an emphasis in Business.
Looking at some of the CSU’s IT programs, there is usually only 1 calculus course required along with statistics.
Here are some examples of IT/IS 4 year programs:
http://www.cpp.edu/~cba/computer-information-systems/documents/CISMajor2012-2013.pdf
I agree with @Gumbymom.
Two out of three of my children are/were CS/CE majors Both are strong in math (800 on their math SATs) and took every level of math; they had difficulty with some of the concepts in their college math courses. (DD is a CS/EE at a large company). If you can’t get through College Algebra (which is really basic) you really need to consider another major since CS requires immediate conceptual math “thinking on your feet” in any job.