Preparing for College: Choosing the Right Courses in Junior High and High School
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The following list of courses provide only a general guideline of courses. School graduation and college entrance requirements vary by institution. Students and parents should consult their school guidance counselor and college admissions office for a more complete list.
Courses students should take in middle or junior high school to prepare for college.
Math: Every year, including algebra I in the 8th grade and geometry in the 9th grade. Algebra and Geometry are the foundation for all college math and science courses.
English, Science, History or Geography: Every year. Along with math, these subjects form the core of academic preparation for college.
Foreign Language, Computer Science, The Arts: Most colleges expect students to have taken some classes in art and foreign language and all colleges expect that they will know how to use a computer. Students should take advantage of every opportunity to learn about these subjects.
Courses students should take in high school to prepare for college
|
Subject |
Minimum Years |
Types of Classes |
|
|
English |
four |
|
|
|
Mathematics |
three to four |
|
|
|
History and Geography |
two to three |
|
|
|
Laboratory Science |
two to three |
|
|
|
Foreign Language |
two to three |
|
|
|
Visual and Performing Arts |
one |
|
|
|
Electives |
one to three |
|
|
© 2006 American Council on Education
Reprinted with the permission of the American Council on Education. © 2008 American Council on Education.
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