High School Curriculum Requirements for Programs Leading to Associate in Arts and Associate in Science Degrees
UnitsSubjects
4English (Grammar, Writing, Literature; with a cool writing part)
3Lab Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or another exciting lab science)
3Mathematics (Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and more)
3History and Civics (American History and other cool stuff)
2Other (Computer Science, Foreign Language, or Fine Arts)
15Total Required Units

Also, think about these subjects to get you college-ready:

Recommended High School Units for College Preparation
UnitsSubjects
2Fine Arts (Art, Drama, Music, Speech)
1Lab Science (as mentioned before)
1Mathematics (as mentioned before)
4Total Recommended Units

Usually, high schoolers in grades 9 to 12 cover these subjects. If you finish these early, you're ahead of the game! The rest of the units can be what you're into.

If you're missing the core classes (English, Math, Science), you can still join the Associate in Science or Associate in Arts programs. Just catch up within your first 24 credit hours, or your next enrollments might wait. Also, any gaps in a specific subject need filling before diving into advanced courses in that field.

High School Classes Needed for Other Degrees or Certificates

For Associate in Applied Science degrees or certificates, make sure you've ticked off the high school curricular requirements in your field before diving into related courses.

Removing High School Curricular Deficiencies

For English, Math, and Science, you've got options to catch up:

  1. Take a zero-level course and ace it: English - ENGL 0933; Math - MATH 0513 or
  2. Show off your skills with the ACT or other placement exams.

Those zero-level courses won't count toward your degree, but they'll catch you up. If history's your thing, take a three-credit-hour history course in addition to the U.S. History needed for graduation. For any other curricular deficiencies, complete a course in that subject area.