<p>I have to take a science next year, and I'm debating between Physics 1 or AP Enviro (or even regular Enviro, perhaps). I've taken Chem and Bio, but no science this year. My GC said it'd be ok if I didn't take Physics cause I'm not interested in the science field (I want to study history), but I wanted to get some other opinions. Thanks!</p>
<p>Most selective colleges want to see at least one year of study in all three of the “core” sciences (physics, chemistry, and biology). I would take physics over AP Enviro.</p>
<p>If not going in to a science field, I’d take AP Environ. From my kids, I hear it is one of the easiest AP’s. Both my kids took AP Physics, did great, but it is a harder class, even if not AP.
Ask this same question on the NYU forum if you are interested in going there.</p>
<p>One more thought…</p>
<p>My freshman son was accepted into all schools he applied to (15 in all) and did not take Chem in HS (and went in as an Engineering major.)</p>
<p>nyuhopeful-My S had the same issue and he ended up taking AP Enviro and loved it! He is not majoring in anything science-related and applied/accepted to many very competitive schools. In the end, I don’t think one class will make or break you if you have a strong overall application. Take the class that most interests you and the one you have a better chance in doing well in.</p>
<p>If you’re planning to apply to a selective college – you’re very strongly encouraged to take core science courses in high school, and that means physics, chemistry and biology.</p>
<p>Take physics! It’s considered a “real” course. Environmental is taken only after you’ve had Bio, Chem and Physics. He was torn last year, like you, but subsequently read that many schools want to see you’ve had Physics. No one thinks there’s a loss in your transcript if Environmental isn’t there.</p>