College preparatory schools are designed to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and academic rigor to succeed in higher education. The curriculum often goes beyond standard high school courses, offering a wide range of subjects to foster a well-rounded education. Here are four courses commonly found in college prep schools: 

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses 

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are rigorous, college-level classes that students can take while still in high school. These classes provide a challenging academic experience and cover a broad range of subjects such as English Literature, Calculus, Biology, World History, and many more. They are designed to foster critical thinking, enhance understanding, and encourage students to learn at a higher level. Additionally, high scores on AP exams can help students earn college credit, saving on tuition costs and potentially allowing for advanced placement in college courses.

Moreover, AP courses are looked upon favorably during the college admissions process, demonstrating a student's commitment to academic excellence and their readiness to handle college-level coursework. By taking these courses, students can differentiate themselves in competitive college admissions, get a head start on their college credits, and gain a deeper understanding of the subjects they are passionate about.

Foreign Languages

A robust foreign language program is a staple at many college preparatory schools. These programs often go beyond the standard offerings of Spanish or French, introducing students to less commonly taught languages like Mandarin, Arabic, or Latin. Learning a new language helps students broaden their global perspective, improve cognitive abilities, and acquire a skill that is highly valued in today's globalized world.

In addition to language fluency, these courses usually encompass a deep dive into the culture, history, and literature of the regions where the language is spoken. This cultural exploration can provide students with a more comprehensive understanding of the world, enhancing their global awareness and empathy. Not to mention, proficiency in a second language can set students apart in college admissions and future job markets.

STEM Courses

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) courses are a crucial part of the curriculum at college preparatory schools. Traditional STEM courses, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and various levels of math, are complemented by innovative classes in computer science, environmental science, and engineering. These classes develop valuable skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation.

Humanities and Social Sciences

The humanities and social sciences are essential for creating well-rounded students. Courses in this area can include literature, history, philosophy, psychology, economics, and political science. These subjects help students develop skills in critical reading, writing, analysis, and understanding different cultural and social perspectives.