Hi everyone,
I’m an international student. I applied to UW and got admitted. My intended major was Computer Science. This morning, I received an email that said I have been given ‘Pre-sciences’ as my major until I take the pre-requisite courses, which include some chemistry, physics and mathematics courses.
Here’s the thing: I’ve got A levels in my country. For those who are unfamiliar, the A level is a 2 year course after high school that allows you to take advanced level classes. They’re equivalent, to AP, I guess. I’ve got chemistry, physics, mathematics and English as my A level subjects, which means that I’ve already got most of the pre-requisite courses.
What I want to know is whether or not I’ll be able to complete the rest of the pre-requisites (CSE 142, CSE 143) in the first quarter or semester and then apply for Computer Science in the spring.
I’m really REALLY confused since I’m quite unfamiliar with the US college system.
What are the chances of me getting accepted into Computer Science in spring? I want to become a software engineer, so if I don’t get Computer Science, what else can I apply for to achieve my goal?
Secondly, UW is my first choice and I’ve gotten rejected from most other unis. Do you think I should go to UW? Is it a risk to go as a pre-sciences student?
Thirdly, how long does it take to graduate? I understand that the US uses a credit system and I need 180 credits to graduate. Can I complete my major in 3 years (including the pre-sciences thing)? What if I stay in school for a summer or two?
I apologize if the questions are too vague. As I said, I’m quite unfamiliar with the US college system.