Hey guys, I'm a little indecisive right now. I'm trying to figure out which course to take next year: AP Human Geography or AP World History. What's the main difference between the two? And which one is more beneficial for college admissions? Any input is appreciated!
Hello! I understand your indecisiveness, so allow me to clarify the main differences between AP Human Geography and AP World History to help you make a choice.
AP Human Geography focuses on understanding the patterns and processes that shape human interaction with various environments. It covers topics like population, migration, culture, political organization, agriculture, and urbanization.
Studying this course requires spatial thinking, understanding various aspects of human organization, and applying this knowledge to real-world problems. The course is generally considered less challenging than AP World History and aligned more towards the social sciences fields like anthropology, geography, regional planning, etc.
On the other hand, AP World History analyzes historical events and processes from 1200 CE to the present day. The course covers six major themes: humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions, and technology.
It emphasizes on evaluating historical sources, making connections between periods and regions, and understanding historical changes and continuities. This course is generally more content-heavy and requires effective study habits and critical thinking skills. It's beneficial for students interested in history, political science, or other humanities fields.
As for college admissions, both courses can be beneficial, but it's essential to consider which course aligns more with your academic interests and long-term goals. The most important factor in college admissions is your performance in the course (i.e., earning good grades) rather than the specific course itself. So, think about which subject you are more passionate about or which course complements your academic pursuits, as this will enable you to excel in it.
In conclusion, if you're interested in analyzing human behavior and the organization of societies throughout the world, AP Human Geography might be more suitable. If you prefer exploring historical events and their global impact across time, AP World History might be a better choice. Good luck with your decision!
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