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Requirements For Specific College Majors 

What Are The Basic Requirements For Specific College Majors? 

Once you have completed your college major search and decided on your course of study, you will need to know the typical additional course requirements for your chosen major.  The truth is that most colleges base admission decisions on your overall application, and do not take into consideration your choice of major. 

However, it is generally a good idea to take specific classes that focus on your particular major.  For example, you should definitely take the maximum number of science and math classes if you are planning a career in the science field, such as engineering or pre-med.  Likewise, if you are planning a career in the humanities, you will want to have a broad range of classes in the arts, as well as electives that cover a wide range of topics.  If you are interested in pursuing pre-law, then your focus will be courses that are geared toward English, communications, and the social sciences. 

Coursework

The specific courses that colleges look for on your high school transcript are fairly standard, and should be taken and mastered by all college-bound students.    These specific courses include: 

·         English

First, you need to have four years of English.  This should include a class in English composition, both American and English literature, and World literature.  Every major is reliant on the proper use of English in order to communicate. 

·         Math

Next, you will need four years of math.  Ideally, you will have taken Algebra I in middle school, and in high school you will have completed Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, Trigonometry, and Pre-calculus.  If you are planning on a career in math or science, it would be beneficial to try and complete calculus as well. 

·         History and Geography

You will also need two or three years of history and geography.  You should definitely take basic Geography and U.S. history.  If your career plan involves the humanities or a social science, then you should also complete at least one class involving U.S. government, World history, World cultures, and/or Civics. 

·         Laboratory Science

Three or four years of laboratory science will be needed.  This should include Biology, Earth science and Chemistry.  If you are planning on a career in math or science, then you should take Physics as well.

     ·        Foreign Language

Three or four years of a foreign language is a standard college requirement.  Obviously, if you are planning a career in the languages, then you will want at least four years of language in high school.  You may even want to study more than just one language. 

·         Arts

Another standard college requirement is one or two years of art classes.  These may include classes such as art, dance, music, or drama.  This is an especially important requirement if you are planning a career in the humanities. 

·         Other Electives

Finally, you will need to take one to three years of challenging electives.  These can cover a broad range of topics, and allow you to explore subjects that relate to the major you are considering for college.  Classes may cover such topics as economics, psychology, communications, statistics, or computer science. 

Including these courses in your high school education will go a long way toward getting you into the college of your choice.  Finally, make sure that you either meet or exceed the requirements in areas relating to your specific college major.