<p>I have a quick question regarding the physics program at UW. I didn't take physics in high school (took 2 years of IB Chemistry and 1 year of General Biology instead), and I was wondering how difficult it would be for me to do well in the Physics 114 series? </p>
<p>As a side note, I haven't considered the 121 series since I don't have a solid background in physics. </p>
<p>Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!</p>
<p>The real question is, are you good at math? You do not need a background in physics to take 114 or 121, they are beginning courses in mechanics. The difference between 121 and 114 is that 121 uses more of a calculus approach. For 114 you should do fine if you have a solid understanding of algebra.</p>
<p>I think that I’m alright at math. I just completed Calculus AB this past year as a high school senior, and placed into Math 124 at UW.</p>
<p>Another question is, what do you plan on majoring in? Or what track are you considering? You may be required to take one over another.</p>
<p>If you’re planning on some engineering major, you’ll have to take Phys 121 even if you take the 114/115/116 series. If you’re planning on premed, take Phys 114 (although 121 is okay as well).</p>
<p>For a while, I’ve been set on pursuing a major in Political Science. However, I’ve also been drawn to Biochemistry, which I realize is in a vastly different field from Political Science. In terms of my ideal career, I’d like to go into law, and I’m aware that there is no specific major that you have to go into in order to apply to law school. </p>
<p>My main concern is that my background in the humanities is more solid than my foundation in math and science. In addition to majoring in something that I enjoy, I would also like to make sure that it’s a field that I can succeed in grade-wise. I don’t want to go into something that doesn’t match the skills that I possess in a particular field.</p>