<p>Next year I'll be a senior and I'm trying to determine which level of physics to take. I have no prior background in the subject, and the AP class is AP Physics C. AP Physics B is not offered. People struggle with regular physics at my school, but I do well in the sciences. Plus I would like to go into engineering.</p>
<p>Do you think it would be looked down upon if I just took regular physics since I want to do engineering? Next year I'm also planning on taking the following: AP Calculus BC, AP Biology, AP German, AP English Literature, and then either AP Psychology or an art class.</p>
<p>Hi! Okay, I’m going to be honest. If don’t take ANY physics class it’s going to look bad. So it’s already good that you’re thinking about taking a class. Now, I’m going to be frank. If you’re taking AP Calculus BC, I would assume you have already taken Pre-Calculus and/or AP Calculus AB. AP Physics C DEFINITELY utilizes calculus, so if you understand concepts in math, by all means go ahead. Overall, I recommend that you to take AP Physics C. Look, if you don’t get a perfect A, it’s okay not to. Colleges would much rather you see challenging yourself and get a “B” in a college-level course then to get an “A” in a regular one. Go for it! The experiences you will gain out-benefit whatever letter grade you get. As I always say: “Be confident & be proud, those two things will work wonders in life!”</p>
<p>If you are doing engineering, physics will be mandatory in college (with a few exceptions). The math gets hard only once you get to torque. By AP Physics C you mean both E&M and Mechanics right? Physics C is super fun, and has really changed the way I look at a lot of normal things. Do it if you think you can do the math well. I had never taken a physics course before AP Physics C and I’m doing pretty well.</p>
<p>If you ever struggle, use MIT OCW and Walter Lewin’s videos. They are godly.</p>
<p>I definitely recommend AP, its only senior year so grades don’t matter so much, but it’ll look good because its rigorous, plus most schools don’t have Physics C so go for it. For an engineering major it’ll be that much more relevant.</p>
<p>Thanks for the input. I’m leaning toward trying to take AP, but grades definitely matter for me in senior year. I’m trying to be valedictorian, so I’m still a tad wary.</p>