What's the Standard Order of Mathematics Courses in High School?

Hi all! I'm a little bit confused about the typical progression of mathematics courses in high school. I know the basics like Algebra, Geometry, and Calculus, but what comes between and beyond these? Does this order matter much for college applications?

The typical progression of math courses in high school is generally:

1. Algebra 1

2. Geometry

3. Algebra 2/Trigonometry

4. Pre-Calculus/Analysis

5. Calculus (AB or BC if pursuing AP)

However, this curriculum can vary from school to school. Some schools offer statistics or discrete math as options, and many schools introduce Trigonometry as a separate course or integrated in Algebra 2 or Pre-Calculus.

To your question about college applications - yes, the order can matter, especially for students who plan to major in a STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Colleges like to see that students are challenging themselves with rigorous course loads, and a strong math foundation is crucial for many college-level classes.

If you're a prospective STEM major, it's important to try to reach at least Calculus in high school as Calculus I and II are prerequisite courses for many college level STEM courses. If your school offers it and you feel prepared for it, taking AP Calculus (AB or BC) can also demonstrate academic rigor and help you stand out in college applications.

Even for non-STEM majors, completing through Algebra II or Pre-Calculus at minimum can showcase a well-rounded academic profile. Remember that most selective universities require 3-4 years of math for admission.

However, colleges evaluate applicants based on the opportunities available at their particular high school, so if more advanced courses aren't available, you won't be judged negatively for not taking them.

In terms of enhancing your application, look to add depth to your academic profile by pursuing math-related extracurriculars such as Math Olympiads, Mu Alpha Theta, robotics clubs, etc., particularly if you are considering a STEM field. This further signals to colleges your commitment to and passion for mathematics.

In summary, while the order of math courses can vary somewhat, it generally follows the pattern described above, and reaching a certain level can be beneficial, especially for those interested in STEM fields. To maximize your college application, consider math-related extracurriculars to demonstrate your interest and commitment to the field.