Choosing AP Statistics vs. AP Calculus AB for a Degree in Public Health or International Affairs

When choosing between AP Statistics and AP Calculus AB, it is essential to consider the relevance, skills developed, and the future courses related to your desired major in Public Health or International Affairs.

Relevance and Course Selection

Review your freshman schedule for your proposed degree carefully. If statistics or calculus is not a requirement, there is no need to take either AP class. The credit from these AP classes usually does not apply towards your degree. If calculus is required, consider studying for it during your senior year through dual credit programs.

AP Statistics

Relevance: Statistics is highly relevant for Public Health. It is essential for analyzing data, understanding research findings, and interpreting statistical results. This makes AP Statistics a strong choice for your academic path.

Skills Developed: You will learn about data collection, analysis, and interpretation, which are crucial for understanding health trends and policies. A solid understanding of statistics can provide a strong foundation for courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, and research methods in both Public Health and International Affairs.

AP Calculus AB

Relevance: Although calculus is important in some areas of science and economics, it may not be as directly applicable to Public Health as statistics. The skills developed, such as mathematical reasoning and problem-solving, are useful for quantitative analysis but are less frequently applied in everyday public health contexts.

Future Courses: If you plan to take advanced courses in economics or certain scientific fields, AP Calculus AB may be beneficial. However, for a degree in Public Health or International Affairs, the need for advanced calculus may be less common.

Choosing Based on Interests and Future Plans

Consider your interests and future plans. AP Statistics is the most relevant for the field you currently believe you will end up working in. However, if you have a strong interest in mathematics, AP Calculus AB can be a fun and beneficial alternative. It is not impossible to take both courses.

From personal experience, I took advanced math classes because I enjoyed them, despite some college colleagues advising against it. They argued it would make my life harder than it needed to be. However, I ended up transferring to become a Math major and have never regretted it. Choose the courses you are most interested in, as your life plans may change down the road.

Conclusion

For a major in Public Health or International Affairs, AP Statistics is generally the better choice due to its direct application in analyzing data and understanding research. However, if you have a strong interest in mathematics and plan to pursue fields where calculus is essential, consider taking both if possible. Always review your course requirements and choose the path that best aligns with your goals and interests.