High school is a time when you’re making important decisions about your future. High schools throughout Idaho have different requirements, and many offer opportunities to choose some of your classes. While this flexibility is exciting, it can also be overwhelming with so many options. There is no one “right” answer for which classes you should take, but certain courses will help you progress more quickly toward a degree in engineering, computer science, or construction management. Below is a suggested list of courses that will prepare you well for earning a degree in one of these fields in four years.
Subjects:
Mathematics (4 years)
Take four years of math, ideally through pre-calculus. If possible, include a calculus course as well. While statistics can be helpful, calculus will provide a stronger foundation for your STEM studies, so if you have a choice, prioritize calculus.
English (4 years)
A solid background in reading comprehension and writing will set you up for success in college, where strong communication skills are essential. These courses will help you develop the writing and critical thinking abilities needed for your future studies.
Science (3-4 years)
Science courses should include earth science, biology, physics, and chemistry. If you can’t fit all four years of science into your schedule, that’s okay, but try to take at least three years of science, with a focus on chemistry and physics, as these are particularly important for engineering and computer science.
Social Studies (3 years)
Take at least three years of social studies, or follow your high school’s requirements in this area. A solid understanding of history, economics, and government will help you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are valuable in any field.
Foreign Language (2-4 years)
While there is no language requirement for the College of Engineering, taking a foreign language can still be beneficial. For students pursuing Construction Management or Civil Engineering, having a background in Spanish can be particularly helpful for career opportunities in the field.
Computing (1-2 years)
A foundation in computing can be extremely valuable. If possible, take courses that cover Microsoft Office and Google Suite (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations), as well as introductory programming languages like Python, Java, or C++. These skills will give you a head start in college and in your professional career.
Additional Tips
Remember that every high school is different, and you may not be able to take all of these courses. The good news is that you can still work toward preparing for college on your own. Online resources such as Khan Academy, Desmos, and OpenAI offer free tools to help you strengthen your knowledge in key subjects.
Do you have questions or need additional information about high school classes for a specific major?
Email AdviseENGR@boisestate.edu and we will do our best to get you the most up to date and accurate information,
Posted 11/2024 by Briceland McLaughlin, Senior Academic Advisor, College of Engineering