Is it really that bad if I don't take physics?Answered
I realized that one of the universities that I am planning on applying to, (which happens to be a highly selective college) has an ideal 4-year high school course pathway. That includes taking 4 years of science: biology, chemistry, physics, and an advanced course in one of those subjects. My problem is that I'm probably not going to take physics, not because of disinterest but that I don't really have space for it in my schedule, and the only course for physics that my school offers is AP Physics 1(in general it is not guaranteed as an available class, cause of few students that are interested in taking it). Also, I'm a rising senior so I pretty much have my class schedule planned out already for next year.
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3 answers
I'm sure it depends on what major you are planning to study in college. You mentioned above that physics doesn't fit in your schedule, so I'm assuming you prioritized other classes above it, thus physics doesn't really align with your intended major. In that case, I'm sure two years of lab science is enough. Just make sure to take rigorous courses in your planned field of study. If you really want to take physics though, you can always take it online through a private class or self-study for the AP Physics 1 exam to receive the college credit. Self-studying shows the college that you are disciplined and motivated even in the absence of immediate gratification and a lack of resources. I do understand that it can be hard managing to self-study an AP course during senior year; I'm just listing it as a viable solution. I'd take a look again in your class schedule to see if any courses can be eliminated or taken over the summer, like an elective of some sort, but you probably did that already. Additionally, I think you'll be able to explain your class schedule situation in your college application along with the limited availability of the class as well. I would also check with your counselor to see what can be done, but you probably already did that. Anyways, best of luck in any path you choose to take. I myself am a rising sophomore and don't know a ton regarding college admissions and requirements, so I'd probably talk to someone like a teacher or even the admissions counselor of the college you want to be accepted into, if possible. I hope this helps!
Since you have said that AP Physics is not directly related to your major, it would be completely fine for you not to take it. So long as you take rigorous classes in several different STEM areas, you will be a competitive applicant. Taking AP Chem will certainly demonstrate your intellectual achievement in STEM, and it will help you build an admissions theme. Hope this helps!
I think it really depends on your major, which classes best fit the area you're going into. For example, I'm going to take Ap physics instead of bio because im going to be a math/stem major and its more relevant, but people with other majors may not need it!
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I would agree with above^^ as long as you’re not going to be a physics major I think you will be fine with just other sciences. As someone who took AP physics but is not going to be a physics major, I think I could’ve still gone without taking the course and be a good applicant. Also, for AP physics, unless you get a 5 or really understand the content, most people will still take some sort of physics class in college. So overall, it’s not that bad if you don’t take a physics in high school.