Freshman

Build a Four-Year Plan - Take the Tough Classes!

As with any important endeavor, one of the best ways to prepare for college is to develop a plan. Your guidance counselor at school is there to help you do just that, so make an appointment. Some topics you will likely talk about at that meeting include:

  • Core Classes - In order to attend a four-year college in Montana, students must complete:
    • Three years of mathematics including algebra I, algebra II and geometry - a senior year of high school math is recommended.
    • Four years of English.
    • Two years of laboratory sciences, including a full year of earth science, biology, chemistry or physics.
    • Three years of social studies, including a full year of global studies (world history or world geography), a full year of American history and an additional year in another social studies field such as government, economics, Indian history, sociology or psychology.
    • Two years of electives such as a foreign language, computer science, visual and performing arts or vocational education.
  • Rigorous Core Classes - Completing the Rigorous Core program makes you eligible for a variety of prestigious scholarships, including the Montana University System Honors Scholarship. In the Rigorous Core program, students must complete the Minimum Core requirements with the following additions:
    • English - In addition to the Minimum Core, a designated college prep or research writing course is recommended.
    • Social Studies - In addition to the Minimum Core, a half year or more of other courses such as psychology or humanities is recommended.
    • Mathematics - In addition to the Minimum Core, a course beyond algebra II or integrated math IV (such as trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, computer math or integrated math VI) is required. The student must have a grade of "C" or better in all of the classes.
    • Laboratory Science - Instead of two years of laboratory science as required in Minimum Core, Rigorous Core requires three years of lab science - a full year each of general or earth science, biology, and chemistry or physics.
    • For more information about college preparatory program requirements, visit the Montana University System Web site at http://mus.edu/asa/hscp/index.asp.