Hey guys, I'm planning on taking science classes in college, but they're not my strongest suit. I want to do well and maintain a decent GPA. What are some of the 'easiest' science classes I could take, or at least, which ones might be more approachable for someone not too comfortable in this field? This may, of course, vary from college to college, so any general advice for navigating this is appreciated.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to your question as the difficulty of science classes can greatly vary on the professor and the university, but there are some common 'lighter load' science classes often recommended to students who may not be pursuing a science major.
1. Introductory Astronomy: Often considered a more accessible science course due to its qualitative rather than quantitative focus. The class will still include some math, but it tends to be fairly basic compared to that found in a physics or chemistry course. It's renowned for sparking curiosity about the universe without overwhelming students with complex equations.
2. Environmental Science: This often attracts students from a variety of majors as it has a practical real-world application. It gives an overview of environmental processes and the effect of human activity on the environment.
3. Human Biology or Biology 101: This can be a less complicated choice for those wary of the heavy-duty biochemistry involved in many biology classes. It usually covers basics like cell biology, genetics or evolution, and human anatomy and physiology.
4. Geology or Earth Science: Often incorporates exciting field trips and can be less math-intensive than other science courses. Just keep in mind, some geology classes might require more detail-oriented work.
While these classes might be considered easier than, say, an intro to organic chemistry, they'll still involve studying and likely have a lab component. So, my advice would be not to choose a class solely based on perceived difficulty, but to consider what you are interested in, so you will be motivated to put in the work needed to succeed. Also, seek advice from academic advisors or upperclassmen who can provide insight into professors' teaching styles, course content, and grading policy. This knowledge can help manage your expectations and ensure you choose a class that aligns with your skill set and interests.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.