<p>I took AP Calculus BC, AP Physics, AP computer science and other ap classes. I will transfer my other ap credits in, but for the math and physics credits, will it be better if I re-take the courses? I heard the college level calculus and physics are harder than the high school ap courses. Advise please.
Thanx</p>
<p>It matters what you got on the exam.
Penn State will only transfer 4 or 5 on AP exam.
Also, from a engineering student perspective.
The physics at Penn State is very challenging. If you passed the exam for physics AB and physics C(electricity) then dont take the course, it will only waste time. If you took calculus and feel comfortable about it, you can start at Calc 2 or Calc 3. I always advie students to start at Calc 2 if you atleast took AP.</p>
<p>If you receive a 5 on calc BC, go right to MATH220 (I think this is needed for ENG). If you score a 4 consider taking MATH141.
I would recommend just taking PHYS211/212. It will prepare you for the other quantitative physical sciences courses you will need to take.</p>
<p>More precise advice might be given if you provided more stats.</p>
<p>luvthej
Math 220 is matrices course, it has nothing to with calculus.
Physics at Penn State is hard. Period nothing about it. From what I seen and heard, if you came with credits for physics stick with them. All my friends who had the physics credits but decided to take the course again, regretted it!</p>
<p>@obwian22…
Unless of course you want to understand physics and/or need it for something else later.</p>
<p>Physics B (there is no AB) only gives credit for Physics 250 (which isn’t needed for engineering). If you have taken Physics C (Mechanics) and/or (Electricity), got a 5 and feel you really, really understand the material then take the credit. Otherwise take the class.</p>
<p>You might not get an A but it is much more important to learn the material and figure out if you can do that level of work BEFORE you get deeply into your major.</p>
<p>Generally, if are smart enough to have credit for physics, you have the skill and knowledge needed to succeed in further physics courses/engineering. Believe me I have friends in engineering who had the physics credits and and didn’t take Physics:Mechanics(Phys 211) and Physics: Electricity (Phys 212) and are doing just fine in their advanced coursework.</p>
<p>Cheers!</p>
<p>Thank you guys. I got 4s for calculus BC and physics C. I do not feel totally comfortable with them, so I will take then again.</p>