I want to take a specific Community College Class, but I don't want to take the Prerequisite first...?

Question

Basically, I crapped my way through high school, but I still know a bit of Algebra to get by. I'm planning on going into the air force next year and want to do good on my entrance exam (ASVAB). So I want to take some basic classes in various subjects such as electronics, mechanics, physics in order to increase my knowledge in various important subjects before I take the Air Force ASVAB. One class that I want to take next semester is Applied Physics, but there is a prerequisite, Intermediate Algebra, which I haven't yet taken. I would like to know if there is any way I can take this class (Applied Physics) without taking the prerequisite (intermediate Algebra)? I have a feeling that I can take the physics class, but it just won't count towards my college credits. If this is the case, my question then becomes, if I decide to take Applied Physics before taking the Intermediate Algebra Prereq, can I obtain the credits for the physics class once I take the Prereq at a later date?

The first two answers completely contradict each other. Thank you for your replies, but they do not help me come to a conclusion. Which is correct? Am I allowed to take a class before the prerequisite or not?

Answer 1

Actually most colleges will not allow you to take a class if you have not meet the requirements or have taken the pre-requisite first. However, you may Audit the physics class. You will probably have to pay for this class out of pocket and you will not be able to apply this to your college credit later on even if you make an A in the class. My suggestion would be take a few college classes- the pre-requisite ones and buy a book on the ASVAB to study by. This will give you college credit and the ASVAB book will help you focus what to study for and it will even have practice tests that you can take to give you an idea of what your score will be.

Answer 2

Prerequistes often hint at what will be stressed in the course. Taking the example of "Applied Physics" with the Intermediate Algebra prereq it is safe to assume that you should have the mathematical background to demonstrate homework, lab exercises and tests the mathematical underpinning of Physics.

You suggest that perhaps you could enroll, take the class, then complete the math requirement and then get credit. I think this is unlikely. Most schools may have a waiver procedure that would allow you to demonstrate the required knowledge through a test or get the instructor's permission, but either case the grade/credits you earn would NOT change after taking a prereq course. You may be confusing the "audit status" that some schools allow studetents to enroll with -- even in that case there would be no credit earned.

Why don't you see if there is a placement test that would help you determine whether the math would be beyond what you need for success?

BTW there are specific study guides for the ASVAB and some community colleges even will help students prepare for them.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

Usually prereqs are a suggestion, not a solid requirement. If you think you can do it, go for it. But keep in mind that most physics courses actually require a background in calculus, so even if this one only says algebra, you're probably going to need some pretty advanced algebra. Try taking a look at the book and seeing if you can understand the material and worked questions before taking the course.

Answer 4

At most colleges the indivdual professor can waive the prerequisites if you talk to them, but if they wont waive them there is NO WAY to get into the class without the basic classes. Also, there is usually a placement test you can take for enthlish and math, and if you do well enough on it, it can fill your prerequisite requirements (ie, if you test into calculus then you can take any class that has a lower prerequisite then calculus. ) I'd say your best bet is to talk to the teachers.
also, you can take some classes not for credit, so you wont get a grade, you could just sit in the class and learn, which might also work for you if all you need is to learn, not get the credit.

Answer 5

That would be like taking a surgery course without taking basic biology first...most colleges won't let you take a class unless you take the prerequisite class(es) first for this reason. There are steps involved and if you don't take the proper steps, you will fall...something the military really frowns upon......