Questions about physics, calculus and astronomy/planetary sciences

Colleges and Universities A-Z Stony Brook University - SUNY
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<p>I'm a history major seriously considering changing majors to astronomy/planetary sciences. I have thought about it a lot and have a list of goods reasons, but I need some feedback about physics and calculus classes at SB. I haven't talked to an adviser yet because I'm still not 100% sure and I wanted to hear some student feedback first.</p>

<p>I took AST 105 last spring and fell in love with the subject. I'm a sophomore and I've taken almost all humanities/social science classes here. I never took a physics or pre-calculus class in high school. This is a major setback because I have almost no background in math and science. I am going to take pre-calculus over the winter or next spring, and I plan on taking the "Physics Head Start" course. I know I will need heavy courseloads, winter/summer classes or an extra semester to complete the major requirements. </p>

<p>My questions are mostly about PHY 131, 132 and MAT 131, 132. Do these classes move at a fast pace? Do you need a strong math background/previous knowledge in order to succeed in these classes? Any other advice about the astronomy major?</p>

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<p>You don’t need a STRONG background for the PHY and MAT 131/132 series; however, you should be proficient in the material that is being built upon in those classes. Most if not all students in those classes will be coming from a strong mathematics/science course load in high school.</p>

<p>Since you are making such a drastic change in major, it is likely you may have to stay an additional year to satisfy degree requirements.</p>

<p>Enjoying AST 105 is not a good indicator of whether this subject is right for you. It’s a VERY basic course tailored towards those with a fancy in astronomy. I suggest sitting in some classes (lower and upper division) that AST majors take to see if you are fundamentally interested.</p>

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<p>@fanheors- I am in the same boat(well almost)…I want to transfer to SBU for Mech. Engineering But i am a poli sci major(I HATE IT, i am to often forced to question my own beliefs at school, and i am just not comfortable doing that yet…) anyway i just dnt like the school environment that I am in…-__-</p>