How to Choose Between AP Physics 1, 2, and C
AP Physics 1 is algebra-based intro mechanics. AP Physics 2 is algebra-based intro electromagnetism, fluids, optics, and thermodynamics. AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Physics C: E&M are calculus-based versions, generally taken by students aiming for engineering or physical sciences.
Quick answer
Take AP Physics 1 if it’s your first physics class. Take AP Physics 2 after Physics 1 if you want more topics covered. Take AP Physics C (Mechanics + E&M) if you’re going into engineering, physics, or any STEM major and you’ve taken or are taking calculus.
AP Physics 1 (algebra-based mechanics)
- No calculus required
- Topics: kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, simple harmonic motion, rotational motion, waves
- Best for: first physics class, students who haven’t taken calculus
- College credit: 1 semester of algebra-based physics
AP Physics 2 (algebra-based, beyond mechanics)
- No calculus required
- Topics: fluids, thermodynamics, electrostatics, circuits, magnetism, electromagnetic induction, optics, modern physics
- Best for: students who liked Physics 1 and want more breadth
- College credit: 1 semester of algebra-based physics
AP Physics C: Mechanics (calculus-based)
- Requires calculus (concurrent or prior)
- Topics: same as Physics 1 mechanics, but calculus-based
- Best for: STEM-bound students, especially engineering, physics, math majors
- College credit: 1 semester of calculus-based physics
AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism (calculus-based)
- Requires calculus (concurrent or prior)
- Topics: electrostatics, conductors/capacitors/dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, electromagnetism
- Best for: students who took Mechanics and want full calc-based physics
- College credit: 1 semester of calculus-based physics
Tutoring tip: Physics C is exactly Physics 1/2 material with calculus applied. If you understand Physics 1 + calculus, Physics C is doable. The real challenge is the conceptual depth, not the math.
Which combinations make sense
- Physics 1 only: if it’s a graduation requirement, you’re done
- Physics 1 + 2: good prep for a non-physics STEM major
- Physics 1 + C: Mechanics: good if you’ve taken Physics 1 and now have calc
- Physics C: Mechanics + C: E&M: the standard sequence for engineering majors
For specific majors
- Engineering: Physics C (Mechanics + E&M)
- Physics: Physics C (Mechanics + E&M)
- Pre-med: Physics 1 + 2 (algebra-based often required)
- Computer Science: Physics 1 usually enough
- Math: Physics C: Mechanics
- Non-STEM: any AP physics shows rigor; pick what fits your schedule