Courses Students Should Take in Middle School or Junior High 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 Composition American     Literature English     Literature World     Literature Mathematics three to four Algebra I     (if not completed     in 8th grade) Geometry Algebra II Trigonometry Pre-calculus Calculus History and Geography two to three Geography U.S. History U.S. Government World History World Cultures Civics Laboratory Science two to three Biology Earth Science Chemistry Physics Foreign Language two to three French Spanish German Latin Russian Japanese Visual and Performing Arts one Art Drama Dance Music Electives one to three Economics Psychology Statistics Computer Science Communications Note: These lists of courses provide only a general guideline. School graduation and college entrance requirements vary. Students and parents should consult their school guidance office and college admissions offices.