<p>There are two parts to Physics C. 1st is Mechanics which is the first semester of calculus based physics, and 2nd is Electricity and Magnetism.</p>
<p>My main question is, can I just study for Mechanics and blow off E&M, then go to college starting with the second semester of physics? Would getting AP Physics credit even help an engineering major, even though I know my university accepts it, don't engineers take the introductory classes anyway to refresh/for GPA?</p>
<p>Also, I'm finding self studying E&M extremely difficult (hence why I thought about blowing it off). Is it just me or is this usually the case, I just want to be reassured that engineering won't be a hard major for me. I mean I thought I was good at math and science but this Kaplan review book is not cutting it. Anyone have similar experiences?</p>
<p>University level physics E&M often uses multivariable calculus. So that means two things:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>AP Physics C E&M may be avoiding the math concepts that would help in understanding E&M. So you may find it easier taking it in university after or concurrently with multivariable calculus.</p></li>
<li><p>Some schools do not give subject credit for AP Physics C E&M anyway. (They are more likely to accept the Mechanics portion.)</p></li>
</ul>
<p>As far as jumping ahead or starting over in courses like math and physics, it depends. Usually, those who got a 5 on the AP test and thought it was easy would do best jumping ahead to the extent allowed by the school; if they start over, it would be more interesting to do so in an honors course. But those who struggled to get a 3 on the AP test would probably be best off starting over.</p>
<p>For AP Physics C, I would not blow off the 2nd semester (E&M) as you will have to take this course as a freshman or sophomore in college if you study engineering. For AP Physics C, there are 2 exams each 90 minutes. The 1st one is Mechanics and 2nd is E&M.</p>
<p>See quote from the College Board:</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Most colleges require at least a 4 on each to get credit. Personally, I wouldn’t skip either in college unless I got a score of 5.</p>
<p>I didn’t mean to say I was going to blow it off. I mean, I understand things that are going on (and I am self studying these courses), but I will not get a 5 at this rate. I am planning on getting a 5 on mechanics, and either skip it in college or take it to refresh my physics. AG2014, you seem to be offering conflicting advice: I should not blow it off, but at the same time not skip it in college? If I’m not going to get a 5, are you saying I should still study it hard anyway even though I will take it again in college?</p>
<p>If you are self-studying, and have the time, I think you should at least review it to the point where you could score a 3, but not necessarily take E&M part of the AP Physics C test.</p>
<p>If you don’t want to self-study, and if Physics C is offered at your high school, then you should take it.</p>