<p>Currently I am a sophomore in high school and I have recently realized that I may seriously want to pursue a career in applied physics. What I am wondering is what are the steps I need to take me there? I have started reading some books, but unfortunately I haven't taken calculus yet, so they aren't much help. Should I consider taking math classes outside of school? Also, any programs I could look into over the summer that could help? Thanks for any help.</p>
<p>Minimum math achievement is completion of trigonometry and precalculus by high school graduation, so that you are ready for calculus as a college freshman.</p>
<p>If you reach calculus in high school, by all means take it. AP calculus BC may be credited against a year freshman calculus in many colleges. If you complete BC before senior year, you can consider taking multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations at a local community college.</p>
<p>Of course, you should have at least high school level physics and chemistry by the time you graduate from high school, as many university level physics and chemistry courses list high school physics and chemistry as prerequisites. Honors/AP versions of these courses can be helpful if available (although you should expect no subject credit in college for AP physics B, and at most one semester for AP physics C mechanics or AP chemistry).</p>
<p>The rest of your high school curriculum should include a typical well-rounded selection of rigorous high school courses.</p>
<p>Currently I am in honors chemistry and I am doing quite well, I plan on taking AP chemistry next year, and then follow up with AP Physics. As for math, I am planning on taking AP Calc BC currently, and I believe I am on track for it. Thanks for the reply, it makes me feel as if I am on the right course.</p>