Hi everyone, I wanted to get some opinions on an issue I’m having. I received a D+ in my calc 2 class, and this is an important class for my program (physics). As per my school’s rules, I can only retake a class if I receive an F. I’m worried the D will look terrible when I’m applying for graduate programs and want to retake, but I’d need an F to do so, and both grades (the F and the final grade from the retake) will still show on my transcript and my calculated grade for calculus 2 will only be the average between them (so, I’m guessing no higher than a C). What would you do in this situation and if you possibly know, what would a graduate program prefer?
Thank you.
I’d rethink my major. How did you do on Calc 1?
Seems like your school has a different view of what a D grade means than most others. D usually indicates barely passing, but not advised to take the following course that depends on this course as a prerequisite, and may be repeated.
PhD programs are more likely to look at your upper division physics and math courses, as well as undergraduate research and recommendations. However, getting a D+ in a frosh level math course is not a good indicator for future success in physics and math.
Erin’s Dad, I got a A in calc 1 and have passed my physics 1 & 2 just fine. I messed up really bad on my final (a large part of the grade) for this calc 2 class.
ucalumnus, I know, I really don’t like this policy, as to me, it would make sense to allow D’s a retake, but it is what it is. I realize its not a good indicator for success, and it is certainly a steep learning curve for me (I never took physics or calculus in HS, and I’m a non-traditional student who’s older than most of the student body, so its been awhile since I took geometry, trig, etc). I still want to tough it out as much as I can, but I’d like to add that I don’t plan to go to graduate school for pure physics, I actually wanted to go for a masters degree in a more applied science, such as meteorology or oceanography. My school doesnt offer these programs and is sorta limited in the science programs it does have.