Understanding Pre-Requisites

Hi everyone! I'm new to this, but I've been hearing a lot about pre-reqs when it comes to college courses. Can someone explain what pre-requisites are and how they apply to college?

Hi there! Pre-requisites, commonly referred to as pre-reqs, are courses or requirements that students need to complete before they can enroll in a specific higher-level course. The purpose of pre-requisites is to ensure that students have the necessary background knowledge and skills to succeed in a more advanced course.

For example, a college might require students to complete an introduction to biology course before they can enroll in advanced biology classes. This is because the introductory course teaches foundational concepts and builds a base of understanding that students will rely on when tackling more challenging material in the advanced courses.

Pre-requisites can be found in course catalogs and typically appear within the course description. Some colleges require students to earn a minimum grade in the pre-requisite course(s) in order to proceed to the next course. When planning your college courses, it's essential to take pre-requisites into account, as they can impact your overall course sequence and the time it takes to graduate.

It's also essential to consider pre-requisites if you want to transfer credits from one college to another. For instance, if you're taking courses at a community college and planning to transfer to a four-year institution, you should ensure that the courses you take are pre-requisites for your intended major at the four-year college. This will help to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any delays in completing your degree.

Lastly, some schools offer placement exams that can allow students to prove proficiency in a certain subject and bypass pre-requisites. This option typically applies to language, math, or science courses where students may have prior knowledge from high school or other experiences. Be sure to check with your college's academic advising department to see if they offer placement exams and if they are appropriate for your specific needs.