Choosing the right high school courses is one of the most crucial academic decisions students make each year.
March 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Why Course Selection Matters
Many students base their choices on convenience, peer influence, or perceived ease rather than considering how their selections impact long-term academic and career goals.
With nearly 20 years of experience working with high school students, I have repeatedly seen how strategic course selection can strengthen college applications and open doors to future career opportunities.
This blog will help parents and guardians support their students in making informed course decisions that align with college admissions expectations and career aspirations.
1. Prioritize Rigor and Balance
Colleges seek students who have embraced academic challenges and pushed their limits. Competitive applicants often take a mix of honors, AP (Advanced Placement), IB (International Baccalaureate), or dual enrollment classes when available. However, rigor should be balanced—students should push themselves without sacrificing their mental health or extracurricular commitments. The goal is to demonstrate academic strength while maintaining good grades and engagement in activities.
South Carolina Colleges and Course Rigor
🔹Clemson University and the University of South Carolina prioritize applicants with strong academic foundations in challenging coursework.
🔹Furman University and Wofford College place emphasis on well-rounded students with a rigorous curriculum, particularly in core subjects.
2. Meet (and Exceed) College Admissions Requirements
Most colleges have minimum core curriculum requirements, but top schools prefer students who go beyond these basics. A strong academic foundation typically includes:
🔹4 years of English
🔹4 years of Math (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus/Calculus)
🔹3-4 years of Science (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics preferred)
🔹3-4 years of Social Studies (U.S. History, World History, Government/Economics)
🔹2-4 years of a Foreign Language (many competitive colleges prefer three or more years of the same language)
Encourage your students to take advanced courses in subjects they excel in or are passionate about because colleges like to see that students have gone beyond the minimum. For example:
🔹STEM students should take AP Calculus, AP Biology, or AP Chemistry.
🔹Future business majors should consider AP Economics or AP Statistics.
🔹Students focused on humanities majors should pursue AP Literature or AP History courses.
3. Align Courses with Career Interests
Students should tailor elective choices to align with potential college majors and career interests. Below are recommended courses based on career pathways:
Business
🔹AP Economics, AP Statistics, Accounting, Business Law
🔹Best Business School in South Carolina: USC’s Darla Moore School of Business is highly ranked for business education.
Computer Science & Technology
🔹AP Computer Science, Coding Courses, Cybersecurity, Robotics
🔹Best Computer Science School in South Carolina: Clemson’s College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences (CECAS) offers strong computer science programs.
Arts & Music
🔹AP Studio Art, Music Theory, Performance-Based Classes
🔹Best Arts & Music School in South Carolina: Furman University’s Music Program is known for its music and performing arts programs.
Public Health & Biology
🔹AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, Anatomy & Physiology
🔹Best Public Health School in South Carolina: USC’s Arnold School of Public Health is a leader in health sciences.
Psychology & Social Sciences
🔹AP Psychology, Sociology, Human Development
🔹Best Psychology School in South Carolina: Wofford College has strong psychology and social science programs.
Encouraging students to take relevant coursework early can strengthen their college applications and set them up for success in their chosen major.
4. Demonstrate Academic Growth
Colleges value an upward trend in academic performance. If a student struggles in their freshman or sophomore year but shows steady improvement, that progress is viewed positively. Parents can help by encouraging resilience and emphasizing the importance of effort and growth over perfection.
5. Take Advantage of Dual Enrollment and AP/IB Credit
Dual enrollment empowers students by allowing them to earn college credit while still in high school. Many high schools offer dual enrollment programs in partnership with local colleges. AP and IB courses can also provide college credit if students pass the corresponding exams. However, students should only enroll in these programs if they feel confident handling the workload and achieving high scores.
South Carolina Schools & Transfer Credit
🔹Clemson and USC accept many AP and dual enrollment credits, reducing college costs and graduation time.
🔹Furman and Wofford may accept certain AP credits but often prefer students take their core curriculum courses at the college level.
6. Electives and Extracurricular Learning Matter
While core subjects are essential, electives can showcase a student’s interests and strengths. Journalism, debate, and robotics can enhance a student’s profile. Encourage participation in extracurricular activities that align with their academic focus:
🔹Aspiring scientists: Join science clubs, and compete in STEM fairs.
🔹Future business leaders: Participate in South Carolina DECA, and business competitions.
🔹Students interested in law/politics: Join speech and debate or Model UN.
🔹Artists and musicians: Enter art shows, and perform in school or community ensembles.
7. Explore Learning Opportunities Beyond School
Stepping outside the classes offered at a student’s school can demonstrate ambition and initiative. Online courses, summer programs, and community college classes provide opportunities to explore subjects unavailable in the regular curriculum.
For example, Clemson offers summer STEM camps, and USC provides high school research programs in health and public affairs. This can benefit students interested in niche fields or advanced topics, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or international relations. Independent study, research projects, or internships can also strengthen a student’s academic profile while showing colleges a strong commitment to learning beyond the classroom.
8. Consult School Counselors and College Consultants
Guidance counselors and independent college consultants can provide valuable insight into course selection, especially when considering competitive colleges. They can help students determine the best academic path based on their strengths, interests, and long-term goals.
Building a strong high school curriculum requires planning, intentionality, and a focus on academic rigor and personal growth. By taking the right classes, demonstrating progress, and aligning coursework with future goals, students can create a transcript that impresses college admissions officers and prepares them for higher education and beyond.
If you or your student need personalized guidance in selecting the best courses for college admissions, our team at The College Planning Center is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free 30-minute consultation!
Special thanks to Christopher Parsons for writing this blog post.
Christopher has a strong educational background, including Doctoral studies in English Literature and Creative Writing, a Master’s Degree in English, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and History. He also has a background in Mass Communications and Public Relations/Marketing.
He has successfully won scholarship offers from prestigious schools and over $100,000 in grants and scholarships. His real-world personal experience resonates well with today’s students.
