High school students should take as much college preparatory mathematics as possible. While two years of algebra and one year of geometry would marginally prepare students for college physics courses, a stronger background would include trigonometry. High school courses in computer programming and calculus are also beneficial as preparation for college work. Students should also take as much laboratory science as possible (at least two years) and four years of college preparatory English are required.
Transfer students from a community college should take mathematics through differential and integral calculus (of several variables), one year of calculus-based introductory physics and one semester of general chemistry. If students cannot take a course in modern physics, they must take PHY 134. Students also should take suitable courses that, when validated, will meet the general education transfer requirements.