Academic Preparation
Students planning to attend college should complete University System of Maryland (USM) course requirements as the minimum level of academic preparation in high school. These courses include the following:
* English: 4 years of composition and literature.
* Mathematics: 4 years that must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Students who complete Algebra II prior to their final year must complete the four-year math
requirement by taking a course or courses more rigorous than Algebra II, such as Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, or College Algebra.
* Social Science and History: 3 years.
* Biological and Natural Sciences: 3 years. Courses completed must be in two different subject areas, and 2 of the 3 must include laboratory experience. Biology,
Chemistry, and Physics are recommended.
* World Languages: 2 years of the same language.
Many colleges now expect four years each of English, mathematics, social studies, science, and world languages with additional coursework in computer science/technology and the arts. Click here to see sample student schedules that illustrate rigorous college preparation. Click here for the WCPS Program of Studies.
Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in advanced level courses, such as Advanced Placement® (AP) or International Baccalaureate® (IB), to fulfill these graduation requirements or to meet elective requirements. Washington County Public Schools offers AP courses in every high school and the IB Diploma Programme® at North Hagerstown High School. Prior to taking AP or IB, students should be scheduled into the most rigorous courses available, such as Merit or Honors courses.
Students who want to learn about the college search, application, and financial aid processes while improving their SAT skills should consider our College Preparation course, offered at several high schools. Interested students should see their counselors.
Click here for more information about Advanced Programs in Washington County Public Schools.
* English: 4 years of composition and literature.
* Mathematics: 4 years that must include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Students who complete Algebra II prior to their final year must complete the four-year math
requirement by taking a course or courses more rigorous than Algebra II, such as Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, or College Algebra.
* Social Science and History: 3 years.
* Biological and Natural Sciences: 3 years. Courses completed must be in two different subject areas, and 2 of the 3 must include laboratory experience. Biology,
Chemistry, and Physics are recommended.
* World Languages: 2 years of the same language.
Many colleges now expect four years each of English, mathematics, social studies, science, and world languages with additional coursework in computer science/technology and the arts. Click here to see sample student schedules that illustrate rigorous college preparation. Click here for the WCPS Program of Studies.
Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in advanced level courses, such as Advanced Placement® (AP) or International Baccalaureate® (IB), to fulfill these graduation requirements or to meet elective requirements. Washington County Public Schools offers AP courses in every high school and the IB Diploma Programme® at North Hagerstown High School. Prior to taking AP or IB, students should be scheduled into the most rigorous courses available, such as Merit or Honors courses.
Students who want to learn about the college search, application, and financial aid processes while improving their SAT skills should consider our College Preparation course, offered at several high schools. Interested students should see their counselors.
Click here for more information about Advanced Programs in Washington County Public Schools.
