Pre-Req classes

[MSofia]

I'm currently enrolled in community college and I'm planning to take general biology and chemistry together...I'm just wondering if it would be a heavy work load with the labs and my other classes...I know its not impossible...I'm just wondering if it's a good idea? thanks

[INN_777, BSN, RN]

It depends on the school where you are taking prerequisites, on you ability in sciences and your additional workload. I took Gen Biology and Into to Chem at NCC - Gen Biology was a tough class, Intro to Chem - relatively easy for me but time consuming none the less. I took them together and worked 30-35 hrs a week and was successful if that helps.

[All_Nurses]

What is the process of enrollment to CCs to take pre-reqs? Do I need to take placement test? Any help will be appreciated!! By the way I am new to CCs and applying for admission for the first time

[turtlesRcool]

It's hard to answer your question without knowing your particular circumstances. Generally, though, you have to show the college that you possess the skills/knowledge necessary to handle a particular class. There are two ways to do this: testing and transcript review.

Placement can be based on other coursework you may have done. If you have taken classes at another college, those courses might work for prereqs. That's how I got out of taking English composition at the CCs.

Alternately, you can test in to a particular level, usually through the college's placement test. You might also be able to waive the test through another standardized test. For example, although SATs are not necessary for CC admissions, I substituted my math SAT grade for college algebra. So I was able to just go on and take bio, chem, and statistics without taking the math placement test. AP exams will do the same.

However, if you're starting college fresh you'll probably need to take the test. Either it will gain you entry to the courses you need, or it will show you where you need work to be ready to handle the classes. The test is called the Accuplacer, and if you google it, you can find general descriptions of what the test covers, and sample questions. Here's one I found that might be helpful: http://media.collegeboard.com/digitalServices/pdf/accuplacer/accuplacer-sample-questions-for-students.pdf

Have you met with an advisor yet? That's probably the quickest and most accurate way for you to find out what you personally need to do. Good luck!