Posted On: April 22, 2010

Not sure which classes to take in high school? See which courses to take to prepare you for college.

Many students see high school as a free-reigning goof-off period before they really have to try in college. Although it is a learning experience, developing the right study skills in high school and taking the right courses can significantly help in your preparation for college.

Taking specific courses in high school can not only help you get in to college, but can also help you with college course work.

The following are courses that would be beneficial to take in high school and will be relevant as you prepare for college:

Mathematics

Basic math skills and problem solving will help with college coursework as well as your future career. Most colleges require general math classes to be taken at the start of a student’s academic career. Getting started early on, and learning the basics in high school, will definitely help you in the long run.

Perhaps math is a subject that does not come easy to you. Don't let that stop you. Math teaches you how to think logically. Most colleges like to see students take three to four years of math including two years of algebra and one year of geometry.

English/ Language Arts

Reading, writing and speaking are a part of everyday life. Being able to read, write and speak clearly and effectively is necessary to succeed in life, regardless of your future plans.

Taking some sort of English class each year of high school will help you succeed in college courses, whether it's a reading, writing or speaking class.

Science

Taking science classes through high school will help you not only in college, but to better understand the world around you. Even if you don’t think you will be studying anything in the field of science in college, taking science classes in high school will be a big help. Biology, chemistry and physics are good courses to help you while preparing for college.

Yes, it's important to have fun in high school, but it's also important to keep in mind that this is your time to prepare for your future. The courses listed above are all important courses to take for college bound individuals. Other courses that will benefit you greatly in your future college career are any second language programs, such as Spanish, French or American Sign Language. In addition, Social Sciences courses including geography, economics and history will all be a benefit to your future. All of these courses will play an important role not only in your academic career, but also in your life beyond high school and college.