Should You Take AP Biology or AP Comp for a Future in Computer Science?

The decision to take either AP Biology (Advanced Placement Biology) or AP Computer Science (Advanced Placement Computer Science) can significantly impact your academic preparation for college. Given your interest in majoring in Computer Science alongside a desire to explore biological sciences, let's explore the pros and cons of each option.

Core Sciences and Math: A Priority

At the end of high school, you should ensure you have completed four years of core science and math courses. This is crucial not only for your readiness for college but also to demonstrate to admissions committees that you have a solid educational foundation.

Recommendations for Core Subjects

The academic community generally recommends at least one year each of biology, chemistry, and physics. However, if you can take both AP Biology and AP Computer Science, go for it!

AP Computer Science (AP CSA)

While AP Computer Science (AP CSA) is highly valuable, it is still important to prioritize science and math courses. Many students drop out of CS programs, and taking an AP Computer Science course can show colleges you have a foundational understanding of computer science principles.

College Considerations

It's important to check what basic credits are required for graduation at the colleges you are considering. For instance, if a biology course is required, AP Biology could satisfy that requirement. You can also check with the university to see which class you would receive credit for if you do well on the AP test.

Questioning Course Quality

Even if a course meets minimum standards, the quality of instruction in the department can vary. If the teaching department is only average, you might not gain a strong enough foundation for future college work. Consider speaking with current college students who took the AP Comp class to gauge its preparedness for higher-level computer science courses.

Do Both if Possible

There is no inherent conflict between taking both AP Biology and AP Comp if you can manage it. Do both if possible, as this will give you a well-rounded educational experience and demonstrate your readiness for both biological and computer science studies in college.

Significance of Early Exposure

It's important to recognize that you will encounter many computer science courses throughout your college years. Therefore, if you are deeply interested in biology, by all means, take the AP Biology course. High school is the time to explore a wide range of subjects.

Conclusion

Your decision should be based on your strengths, interests, and the requirements of the colleges and universities you are considering. Balancing your knowledge across both disciplines will not only enrich your high school experience but also provide a broader educational foundation for your future in Computer Science.