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?

Answer 1

You're best option would be to take the CLEP test for the algebra class. This would fill your pre-req and also give you college credit for the algebra class. You would then be able to take the physics class and earn credit for it.

Answer 2

Depends on the college you're going to attend. Some colleges allow you to take only the classes you want if you're only going to a certificate of completion and not a full fledge degree.

If the college you choose requires the prerequisite, you can always look into testing out. If you pass the test you don't have to take the class. But if you fail the test you'll be required to take the class.

Best of luck to you!