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What stem classes should I take next year?

I'm a junior in highschool interested in getting into the prosthetics field, specifically in designing / building prosthetics. My school only offers calculus and statistics math-wise, but they offer advanced biology, anatomy + physiology, and human body for science classes (that I haven't taken yet). I only really have room in my schedule for one of each, so which science / math classes should I take next year?

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Matt’s Answer

The single beat class you can take is physics. There was a masters thesis done by one of my professors in grad school that found physics the single best predictor of success in the prosthetic field. Biomechanics, anatomy and math are also important but physics tops the list.
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Vianne’s Answer

If you're interested in designing and building prosthetics, I suggest choosing calculus over statistics for math. Calculus is more related to engineering, biomechanics, and physics, which are important in prosthetics design. Statistics is useful later, but calculus gives you a stronger base for the technical parts of your work.

For science, if you can only pick one, go with anatomy and physiology. Prosthetics focuses on how the body moves, how joints and muscles work, and how devices fit with the body. Anatomy and physiology give you practical knowledge you'll use, more than general biology. If anatomy and physiology aren't available, then human body studies are a good second choice, with advanced biology after that.

You're already making a smart move by planning ahead. Choosing calculus and anatomy and physiology is a great combination for someone interested in prosthetics, showing both technical and human-focused thinking. If you keep focusing on math, anatomy, and hands-on projects, you'll be well-prepared when looking into engineering or biomedical programs in college.
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