College Preparatory Courses

Did you know that high schools offer courses on different levels - honors, college preparatory, business and vocational? The college preparatory courses are the ones most colleges require. If you do not take these, you may limit your college opportunities. Even if you're not sure you want to attend college, these courses will keep your options open and prepare you for both college and work.

Meet with your counselor to plan your schedule. Keep in mind that the courses listed below are the minimum requirements for most four-year colleges.

English.................................	4 Years ..................................	College prep English
Mathematics......................	3-4 Years ...............................	Including Algebra l & ll and Geometry
Science...............................	2-3 Years ...............................	Usually Earth Science Biology & Physics or Chemistry - 2 laboratory courses are required
Social Science..................	2 Years ..................................	For example: History, Government, economics
Foreign Language.............	2 Years ..................................	Of the same language (many schools require three years)
Electives.............................	3 Years ..................................	Courses of your choice-select courses that will enhance your skills

Electives that will help you include computer science, fine arts, typing, and especially honors and advanced placement courses if they are offered. Also, check with your counselor to see if your high school has an agreement with a local college to let high school students enroll in college level courses. These agreements are also known as Flexible Campus or Dual Enrollment Programs. Some high schools will give high school course credit for college courses.

Excerpted from Make it Happen! publication from the Youth Programs Dept of the Higher Education Information Center.