I’m aware that all CSUs and UCs prefer you to have 3-4 years of science, but science is my weakest subject (right now I only have a B in regular Chem) and I am looking for a way to avoid taking one for my senior year. Science is the only subject that I have not done any honors or AP classes in and, because of this, I am not eligible to take an AP science class next year. I am, however, allowed to take AP Psychology (which is in the “social science” section at my school) in place of a regular science class. My question is, would it look better to USCs and UCs for me to take AP Psychology or a regular science like physiology? Considering that I only have two years of science, of course. I will most likely be going to a USC (Sac State) if that helps.
I am a little confused by your post. I assume you mean CSU rather than USC - because you mention Sac.
UCs require 2 years of lab science but, prefer 3. At most schools, Bio, Chem, Physics is the standard progression.
Physics isn’t any harder than the others. A B in Chem suggest you are capable of a similar grade in Physics. Your proposed Senior schedule is weighed at UCs but, because you apply in November, your grades aren’t a big factor. If you maintain a 3.0 and get C or better in all your classes both semesters, the won’t rescind an admission.
CSUs don’t really care what you take Sr year, as long as you fulfill the A-G list with a C or better.
This link will take you to the official UC A-G page. You can search for your school and find out which requirement is fulfilled by AP Psych. For my son’t school it is considered a ‘G’ elective rather than a ‘D’ science or even, ‘A’ social science. Look for yourself though - your school could be different.
https://hs-articulation.ucop.edu/agcourselist#/list/search/5?f=
If you have the stats to be a competitive candidate for UCs, I’d encourage you to take regular physics. Note it says 3 years preferred. Think of it this way, 2 candidates with similar qualifications - one met the ‘preferred’ and one just met the ‘required’ The student that went the extra mile wins. Now, if the ‘required’ applicant is uniquely qualified in other ways (for the sake of example, say an Olympian). I imagine the Olympian gets the seat.
At this point, why give a UC admissions officer cause to dismiss your application?
Good luck.
AP Psych at my son’s HS is also a “G” elective. If you have fulfilled at least 2 years of science for the CSU’s you should be fine. Much will depend upon the competitiveness of your intended major. If most applicants have 3 years of science for the intended major, they will have an advantage over you.