Building a Strong High School Course Plan:

Understanding Course Levels, Credits, and Prerequisites

One of the most important aspects of a student’s high school journey is the selection of courses. While it may seem like a routine administrative task, course planning plays a major role in shaping graduation eligibility, post-secondary options, and overall academic success. Understanding how course levels, credits, and prerequisites work helps families make informed decisions and avoid future obstacles.

Just as important, families should understand that graduation requirements and post-secondary admission requirements are not the same. A student may meet all the requirements to graduate from high school, yet still be missing specific courses needed to apply to certain university or college programs.

Understanding Graduation Requirements and Credits

To graduate from high school, students must earn a specific number of credits in required subject areas such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, along with elective credits. Each successfully completed course earns a credit toward graduation.

Graduation requirements focus on ensuring students complete a broad and balanced secondary education. Meeting these requirements confirms that a student can receive a high school diploma, but it does not automatically guarantee eligibility for post-secondary programs.

Understanding University and College Admission Requirements

Universities and colleges set their own admission requirements based on program of study. For example, engineering programs may require senior-level math and physics, while health sciences may require biology and chemistry.

These requirements are often more specific and more demanding than graduation requirements. Therefore, students must plan their courses with their future goals in mind, not only with the goal of graduating.

The Importance of Course Levels

High school courses are offered at different levels:

• Academic – University-preparation courses

• Applied – College or workplace preparation

• Open – Available to all students

• Advanced Placement (AP) – University-level courses taken in high school

Choosing the appropriate level is essential. A lower-level course may satisfy a graduation requirement but may not meet a university or college admission requirement.

Why Prerequisites Matter

Many courses require prerequisite courses before students can enroll in the next level. For example, a Grade 11 Academic Math course usually requires completion of Grade 10 Academic Math.

If a student chooses a lower-level course earlier, it may limit future options. This is why course selection must be viewed as part of a long-term plan.

Tips for Building a Strong Course Plan

• Learn graduation requirements early.

• Research admission requirements for programs of interest.

• Understand course levels and pathways.

• Ask about prerequisites before selecting courses.

• Meet regularly with school counselors.

• Revisit the plan each year

Conclusion

Graduating from high school is an important milestone, but it is only one step. Planning courses with post-secondary goals in mind allows students to keep doors open and move forward with confidence.