College
Preparatory Program
In
order to improve students' preparation for college-level work, the Montana Board of Regents
of Higher Education requires the following Minimum Core College Preparatory
Program for students who wish to enter into a 4-year campus of the Montana University System (does not apply to the Colleges of Technology). The Rigorous Core which was created as an alternative to the mathematics proficiency expectations of the Montana University System is also shown. That Rigorous Core is also the criteria for the MUS Honors Scholarship.
4 Years of English: In each year the content of the course should have an emphasis upon the development of written and oral communication skills and literature.
Rigorous Core - 4 years: In addition to the Minimum Core, a designated college-prep or research-writing course is recommended.
3 Years of Social Studies: The courses shall include Global Studies (such as World History or World Geography); American History; and Government, Economics, Indian History or other third year courses.
Note: Students must complete a full year of global studies such as World History or World Geography, a full year of American History, and an additional year in another social studies field such as economics, problems of democracy, psychology, sociology, tribal government, Indian History. (Per Joyce A. Scott, Deputy Commissioner for Academic & Student Affairs, April 2002.)
Rigorous Core - 3 years: As above, with the recommendation of an additional one half year or more of other courses such as psychology, humanities.
3 Years of Mathematics: Courses shall include Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II (or the sequential content equivalent of theses courses). Students are encourage to take a math course in their senior year.
NOTE: In school systems where a student may take Algebra I in the 8th grade, the student must still complete 3 years of college preparatory math in high school. (Per Richard A. Crofts, Commissioner of Higher Education, October 1995.)
Rigorous Core - 4 years: 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.) All must have grades of "C" or better.
2 Years of Laboratory Science: One year must be earth science, biology, chemistry, or physics; the other year can be one of those sciences or another approved college preparatory laboratory science.
Rigorous Core - 3 years: Full year of each: General or earth science; biology; chemistry or physics.
2 Years chosen from the following:
- world language (preferable two years)
- computer science
- visual and performing arts, or
- vocational education units which meet the Office of Public Instruction guidelines.
Rigorous Core - 3 years chosen from the following:
2 years of a World Language
Computer Science
Visual and Performing Arts (including Speech/Debate)
Vocational Education units which meet OPI guidelines (such as Information Technology, Computer Science.)
For further clarification of these requirements and exemptions, please review the Board of Regents policy 301.7.
Find your high school's approved college preparatory curriculum listing below:
The change request form can be submitted by email (preferred), fax or mail. Send your changes to Sarah Elkins
or FAX: 406-444-1469
or
College
Prep Coordinator
Montana University System
PO Box 203201
Helena, MT 59620-3201
You
will be notified by fax or email (please specify your preference) regarding
the status of your request.
If you have any questions, please direct them to Sarah Elkins in the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education.
