“Score-for-Credit”: An Analysis of AP Chemistry Policies at Medium-Sized, Full-time, 2-Year Undergraduate (MFT2) Institutions

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to identify a consensus Advanced Placement (AP) chemistry exam score among MFT2 institutions, and determine how this value compared against target schools within the State of Alabama. AP Credit Policies for MFT2 institutions and popular destination schools were researched using The College Board website (https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/creditandplacement/search-credit-policies). The resulting data was analyzed using simple statistical approaches to gain generalized information. Most MFT2 schools were found to offer college credit when the student obtained a 3/5 or higher on the AP chemistry exam. This outcome is one point lower than popular destination universities for our students at Central Alabama Community College. Community colleges can use lower AP chemistry exam scores to attract students who are likely to be college ready, but may not have the ability (academic, financial, social, or otherwise) to thrive at popular destination schools. A word of caution is included.

Acknowledgment

The author would like to extend a special thank you to Barbara Anne Spears for her assistance in reviewing this manuscript.