<p>I know there is a similar thread out there, I feel like my case is a little different. </p>
<p>I'm a political science major at a CCC and am looking to transfer to some "top notch" schools--Georgetown, UPenn, Cornell (doesn't hurt to dream a little, right?) </p>
<p>Anyway, I hear different opinions about math. I took AP statistics when I was in high school, but it seems like everyone is required to take at least Calculus in order to get in to elite schools. </p>
<p>So, what do you guys think? For a political science major, is Calculus necessary?</p>
<p>Yes, you should take calculus. Top-schools expect a certain level of proficiency in all areas. Aside from that, political science and math go together in many ways – it is important to be able to back up an argument with empirical data and trends. So in short, try calculus. Best of luck!</p>
<p>At a lot of universities, having calculus completed when you go up against other applicants who’ve taken it can help you, but if the course isn’t required for that degree, you’re just going to waste your time and money. However, since you’re looking at some ivies, etc., I agree with Yale that they are going to expect a certain level of advanced coursework from an applicant before putting them in contention for admission.</p>
<p>I would suggest checking the major requirements at your intended schools (I know that Georgetown used to require elementary calculus along with several economics stats courses as a good friend graduated in '07). If you can’t find what you need on the web, or if a major doesn’t require calc and you still aren’t sure, call admissions or even contact the specific department - you’ll get first hand information and who knows, maybe even get your name on someone’s radar for the future.</p>
<p>I know that when I first looked at Psychology I wanted my BA - the universities in my area I have applied to do not require calculus for the BA, only statistical courses (but more than one, some geared towards research). I have now switched to getting my BS, and even though it’s still in the college of liberal arts where pretty much every other major gets by with college algebra and stats, I have to have several semesters of calculus instead.</p>