35 answers
Aileen
Student
Vienna, Virginia
4
Questions
Updated
806 views
What classes are highly reccommended for me to take in high school if I most likely would major in business?
If possible, please list out clearly the specific classes I should take for each grade. I am in 8th grade, rising freshman.
Login to comment
34 answers
Dan Harper
Accounting
1
Answer
Plainfield, Illinois
Updated
Dan’s Answer
If you can, take Accounting courses. Some universities offer honors programs that let you speed up your college accounting classes if you studied accounting in high school.
Sonal Singhvi
Tax Accountant
3
Answers
Fremont, California
Updated
Sonal’s Answer
That's a great choice. I suggest picking subjects that interest you, like accounting, business, or economics.
Cedric Kudowor
Business Operations and Risk Consultant
6
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Cedric’s Answer
Personal anecdote that may help: I took two accounting classes (Accounting I and accounting II) AP statistics, and AP Geometry. I think I also took an AP algebra but not sure. Then I received college credit for all the AP math courses I tested out of. For the university I eventually enrolled in, it allowed me to quickly get an idea of whether or not I wanted to pursue a degree in business and also helped check off some of the prerequisites needed to elect a major in the Business College.
Megan Komel, CPA
Consultant
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Megan’s Answer
So exciting that you are considering business. If your high school offers a business course (personal economics, tax, accounting, marketing) try and plan out to take all that are offered. If not, focus on mathematics classes (statistics, geometry, algebra) and science classes (chemistry and physics) to get your mind working like a business person!
Good luck!!
Good luck!!
Olufunbi Adebari
IT Consultant
4
Answers
Middletown, Delaware
Updated
Olufunbi’s Answer
Take classes like math, economics, accounting, computer science, English, and speech if your school offers them, because they will help you build the skills you’ll need for a business major. I’d also encourage you to challenge yourself with courses that improve problem-solving and communication, since those are really important in business and will help you no matter which area you choose.
Christy Cotter
Resource Manager
3
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Christy’s Answer
Hello, I majored in Business in College but I did not focus on anything specific in high school to succeed in my degree. I don't think its particularly necessary. Although, I do think taking courses in Accounting, Finance, Computer Science and Communications or Public Speaking would definitely be helpful to prepare you for future college classes. Enjoy your high school years and take the classes that you will enjoy, spend time with your friends, and do extracurricular activities. College will come soon enough and you may not have as many choices or the time to enjoy the "fun" things later. Have a positive attitude, study hard, and stay focused on your grades to graduate. You may decide to switch your major once you decide what you really want to do. I ended up switching from Psychology to Business and then I minored in Human Resources. I have been working in Human Resources over 30 years now and some times things just fall into place. I tell my 18 year old now, you don't have to decide what you want to do right now. Start taking different classes in college and see what you enjoy. I think the advice I would have given myself would have been to choose something you want to wake up to every day. Best wishes to you!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2574
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for question. I am glad to know yiu have interest in business. In fact, there are different disciplines in business. You better find what careers you have interest first and then explore tge entry criteria of relevant subjects in college.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Do you have interest in Accounting, Finance, Barking, Marketing, Human Resources, Administration, erc. You can find out more online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school careers counselor, your parents, etc
4.Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in college
6. Choose the required subjects in high school
Hope thus helps ! Good luck!
May Almight God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Do you have interest in Accounting, Finance, Barking, Marketing, Human Resources, Administration, erc. You can find out more online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school careers counselor, your parents, etc
4.Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in college
6. Choose the required subjects in high school
Hope thus helps ! Good luck!
May Almight God bless you!
Thank you for telling me these wonderful tips!
Aileen
Helaine Poon
Consultant
8
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Helaine’s Answer
Choosing a business major can be exciting, and each path offers something unique. In the first two years, you'll explore core subjects like economics, English, and political science, along with introductory business courses such as accounting, finance, and marketing. Don't worry, college advisors are there to guide you and help plan your college experience. You've got this!
Mia McDermott
Supply Chain Consultant
2
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Mia ’s Answer
Hi Aileen! So glad to hear you're interested in a career in business. I would recommend taking classes focused on building you math and communication skills. These are both super important to have as you enter a career in business and will set you up with a good foundation of skills when starting your fist job. Classes like public speech and debate are great for increasing your confidence speaking publicly. For math, I think as long as you get all required high school math classes done, you'll be in a great spot when starting college. If you are able to start taking calculus senior year, it may even help you get a little bit ahead of the classes you would need to take in your college business classes. Hope this helps!
Andrew Bryant
Software Engineering
2
Answers
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Hi Aileen!
If you're getting ready to go into high school and have a desire to pursue a Business degree, I'd highly encourage you to take courses
Computer Applications/IT/Computer Programming - any courses that your school offers around computers, especially Programming & Excel courses would be extremely helpful
Math - if you can take advanced math up to Calc I/II or Business Stats and get college credit for it, it will make your life easier once you get to college
Accounting - many students struggle their first semester with accounting, and if your high school offers the course, I'd greatly encourage you to take it
Additionally if you ever have a desire to work internationally, focusing on learning a foreign language is super helpful.
Good luck in high school!
If you're getting ready to go into high school and have a desire to pursue a Business degree, I'd highly encourage you to take courses
Computer Applications/IT/Computer Programming - any courses that your school offers around computers, especially Programming & Excel courses would be extremely helpful
Math - if you can take advanced math up to Calc I/II or Business Stats and get college credit for it, it will make your life easier once you get to college
Accounting - many students struggle their first semester with accounting, and if your high school offers the course, I'd greatly encourage you to take it
Additionally if you ever have a desire to work internationally, focusing on learning a foreign language is super helpful.
Good luck in high school!
Christine Mojica
Recent marketing graduate and retail stocker
2
Answers
Orange Park, Florida
Updated
Christine’s Answer
Hey Aileen! As someone who recently graduated with a degree in Marketing, I would recommend focusing on building a strong academic foundation while exploring electives that interest you. Classes such as Financial Literacy can help you develop practical money management skills, while electives like Photography, Digital Media, or Business-related courses can build creativity, communication, and technical skills that may be useful in future careers.
You will also take core classes such as Math, Science, English, and History. While requirements may vary depending on your school, these subjects are important because they help develop problem-solving, research, analytical, and communication skills that are valuable in business and many other fields. If you are eligible for Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment courses, they can also help strengthen your academic background and prepare you for college-level work.
Your school counselor or advisor will help guide you through your course selections and graduation requirements. My biggest recommendation is to do your best in your classes, stay involved, and take advantage of opportunities that help you build skills, experiences, and certifications that can benefit you long after high school. If you have any questions, feel free to let me know!
Freshman Year: Focus on building a strong foundation with classes such as English I, Algebra I or Geometry, Biology, and World History. This is also a great time to explore electives like Financial Literacy, Photography, Business, or Digital Media if your school offers them.
Sophomore Year: Continue developing your core skills through English II, Geometry or Algebra II, Chemistry, and U.S. History. Consider taking business-related, computer, or communication electives to discover areas that interest you.
Junior Year: Challenge yourself with more advanced courses, such as Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment classes if available. Classes like Economics, Government, Marketing, or Entrepreneurship can help you gain a better understanding of the business field.
Senior Year: Focus on completing graduation requirements while taking courses that align with your future goals, such as Statistics, Business electives, or college-level classes. This is also a great time to pursue certifications, internships, or other opportunities that can strengthen your college and career readiness.
You will also take core classes such as Math, Science, English, and History. While requirements may vary depending on your school, these subjects are important because they help develop problem-solving, research, analytical, and communication skills that are valuable in business and many other fields. If you are eligible for Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment courses, they can also help strengthen your academic background and prepare you for college-level work.
Your school counselor or advisor will help guide you through your course selections and graduation requirements. My biggest recommendation is to do your best in your classes, stay involved, and take advantage of opportunities that help you build skills, experiences, and certifications that can benefit you long after high school. If you have any questions, feel free to let me know!
Christine recommends the following next steps:
Hi! Thank you so much for taking the time to write out your thoughtful response! I really appreciate it and it will definitely help my future!
Aileen
Shaun Powell
Subcontracts
2
Answers
Huntsville, Alabama
Updated
Shaun’s Answer
As you grow in knowledge and get closer to attending College, I would think about where in the field of business you want to land. I personally went for a degree in Business with a special focus in FAR/DFAR Contracts Administration. Of course you will be required to take the general education courses of Math, Science and English, but think about what you want to do specifically. If you don't have a clue, take a bit of everything in your freshman/ Sophomore year and then focus.
You can aim for Marketing/Economics/HR/Contracts/ and some schools even have entrepreneurial courses now.
Aim to know as much as you can about everything, when you get into your field of choice you will find all areas influence and affect each other. The more you can speak the languages of the different departments the easier it will be for you to understand their objectives.
For individual courses that benefited me:
Marketing 101 - Helps understand consumer psychology and brand positioning
Business Strategy 101 - This course was mind blowing to me, citing real world examples of where and when companies have made first to market moves or pivots to reshape their course.
Introduction to Game Theory - This is the study of choice and how companies utilize options available to them and their competitors to beat each other out, even down to product launch timing.
That being said, the best thing I can recommend is to read books voraciously, consume business books from your library beyond school texts.
You can aim for Marketing/Economics/HR/Contracts/ and some schools even have entrepreneurial courses now.
Aim to know as much as you can about everything, when you get into your field of choice you will find all areas influence and affect each other. The more you can speak the languages of the different departments the easier it will be for you to understand their objectives.
For individual courses that benefited me:
Marketing 101 - Helps understand consumer psychology and brand positioning
Business Strategy 101 - This course was mind blowing to me, citing real world examples of where and when companies have made first to market moves or pivots to reshape their course.
Introduction to Game Theory - This is the study of choice and how companies utilize options available to them and their competitors to beat each other out, even down to product launch timing.
That being said, the best thing I can recommend is to read books voraciously, consume business books from your library beyond school texts.
Madison Shannon
Marketing
11
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Madison’s Answer
If you're interested in majoring in business, I would start with the fundamentals and use high school as an opportunity to figure out which areas of business interest you most.
Classes like economics, accounting, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship can give you a great introduction if your school offers them. I would also strongly recommend classes that build communication skills, such as English, public speaking, debate, or writing-focused courses.
Business is about much more than numbers. Being able to communicate clearly, think critically, solve problems, and work well with others are skills you'll use in almost any business career. Building a strong foundation in those areas will help you become a well-rounded business professional and make it easier to explore different paths as your interests develop.
Classes like economics, accounting, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship can give you a great introduction if your school offers them. I would also strongly recommend classes that build communication skills, such as English, public speaking, debate, or writing-focused courses.
Business is about much more than numbers. Being able to communicate clearly, think critically, solve problems, and work well with others are skills you'll use in almost any business career. Building a strong foundation in those areas will help you become a well-rounded business professional and make it easier to explore different paths as your interests develop.
Jingjing Li
Audit & Assurance Consultant
4
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jingjing’s Answer
Hi Aileen! If you're considering a business major, there are some great high school classes that can set you up for success. Math classes like algebra, geometry, and calculus are key because business often involves working with numbers and solving problems. Economics and accounting give you insight into how businesses and markets operate. Statistics helps you understand data and make smart decisions. English classes are important too, as strong writing and communication skills are essential in business. If your school offers computer skills, Excel, or coding classes, these can be super helpful. Classes in speech, debate, leadership, and entrepreneurship can also boost your confidence and teamwork skills, which are valuable in the business world.
Dominique Carter
Tech Implementations
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Dominique’s Answer
If your school offers them, I would look into classes in finance, economics, administration, or accounting as a great place to start learning the fundamentals of business. I would also join the debate team, if possible, because I think it’s a great way to build your communication skills, which are very important in the business world. Lean into what you really enjoy doing, and you will find your path. Good luck!
Jiho Park
Consulting
8
Answers
Tenafly, New Jersey
Updated
Jiho’s Answer
Accounting, marketing, any class related to financial literacy. Those are all good steps to working towards a career in business.
Kevin Teder
8
Answers
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Take as many math, accounting, finance, and marketing classes as you can. These high school classes will help you get ready for similar courses in college.
Armine Thompson
1
Answer
Updated
Armine’s Answer
Take class is business and economics.
DERRICK FRIMPONG
Consultant
7
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
DERRICK’s Answer
Take accounting and finance classes in high school. If your school offers college courses, take those too so you can transfer the credits to college. Also, take English classes because college involves a lot of reading and discipline. AP courses are helpful to prepare you for college. Good luck!
Ammara Sheikh
Business Technology Consultant
6
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Ammara’s Answer
Take as many business-related classes as you can in high school to build a strong foundation, accounting, general business, and marketing are great starting points. Also don't sleep on the tech side: computer science, IT, and computer information systems will be increasingly valuable no matter what business path you take. The goal is to get a broad exposure early so you walk into college with some context across different areas.
Taylor Meadows
Marketing
6
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
Hi Aileen!
I went into college as an undecided major and ultimately decided to get a business degree with a focus in marketing. Once I decided that, in college I was taking higher level math classes, accounting, economics, etc. I think what really set me up for success in those classes was that I had SOME prior knowledge from my high school classes.
I would suggest getting involved in some of the related extracurriculars your school might offer. Does your school have a DECA program? Marketing classes? ASB/leadership? For me, it was the soft skills I learned in high school that has taken me far in my career and set me up for success in college.
Overall, I wouldn't worry too much. Most majors make you start out with the basics anyways so you can "relearn" some of those fundamental things which will set you up for some of those harder business classes. Don't forget to have fun with it - you're only in high school once :)
I went into college as an undecided major and ultimately decided to get a business degree with a focus in marketing. Once I decided that, in college I was taking higher level math classes, accounting, economics, etc. I think what really set me up for success in those classes was that I had SOME prior knowledge from my high school classes.
I would suggest getting involved in some of the related extracurriculars your school might offer. Does your school have a DECA program? Marketing classes? ASB/leadership? For me, it was the soft skills I learned in high school that has taken me far in my career and set me up for success in college.
Overall, I wouldn't worry too much. Most majors make you start out with the basics anyways so you can "relearn" some of those fundamental things which will set you up for some of those harder business classes. Don't forget to have fun with it - you're only in high school once :)
Sarah Farkus
5
Answers
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Here's a simple plan to help you build a strong foundation for a business career during high school:
Grade 9: Start with the basics like Algebra I (or Geometry if you've already done Algebra), English I, and try to take a Business or Economics class if your school offers it. This will help you learn about money early on.
Grade 10: Move on to Geometry or Algebra II, English II, and look for a Personal Finance or Accounting class. Learning how to manage money now will help you in any business field later.
Grade 11: Take Pre-Calculus or Statistics (business programs love statistics), English III, and if available, enroll in AP Economics or AP Statistics. These classes are impressive on college applications and might even count for college credit.
Grade 12: Choose AP Microeconomics, AP Macroeconomics, or AP Business if your school offers them, along with English IV. Consider taking a leadership or entrepreneurship class to enhance your skills.
Throughout high school, aim for good grades, join clubs like DECA or FBLA that focus on business, and challenge yourself with tough courses. This will show colleges that you're serious about your education and ready for a business program.
Grade 9: Start with the basics like Algebra I (or Geometry if you've already done Algebra), English I, and try to take a Business or Economics class if your school offers it. This will help you learn about money early on.
Grade 10: Move on to Geometry or Algebra II, English II, and look for a Personal Finance or Accounting class. Learning how to manage money now will help you in any business field later.
Grade 11: Take Pre-Calculus or Statistics (business programs love statistics), English III, and if available, enroll in AP Economics or AP Statistics. These classes are impressive on college applications and might even count for college credit.
Grade 12: Choose AP Microeconomics, AP Macroeconomics, or AP Business if your school offers them, along with English IV. Consider taking a leadership or entrepreneurship class to enhance your skills.
Throughout high school, aim for good grades, join clubs like DECA or FBLA that focus on business, and challenge yourself with tough courses. This will show colleges that you're serious about your education and ready for a business program.
Needhi Dalvi
Finance and Information Technology Consultant
4
Answers
Leesburg, Virginia
Updated
Needhi’s Answer
Hi Aileen!
It's great that you're considering a Business Major at such a young age and already have an idea of what you might want to pursue. I felt the same way in middle school, and it turned out to be a great decision. I encourage you to stay open to other career options, as you might discover new interests in high school and college. Back to business, I entered high school confident about my choice, and these classes and extracurriculars helped me succeed in college: Economics, Business Analytics, Sports Marketing, Advanced Marketing, Computer Information Systems. For extracurriculars, I recommend competitions and leadership opportunities within Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and Women in Coding/Business (WiC or WiB).
I hope this was helpful!
It's great that you're considering a Business Major at such a young age and already have an idea of what you might want to pursue. I felt the same way in middle school, and it turned out to be a great decision. I encourage you to stay open to other career options, as you might discover new interests in high school and college. Back to business, I entered high school confident about my choice, and these classes and extracurriculars helped me succeed in college: Economics, Business Analytics, Sports Marketing, Advanced Marketing, Computer Information Systems. For extracurriculars, I recommend competitions and leadership opportunities within Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), and Women in Coding/Business (WiC or WiB).
I hope this was helpful!
Joe Spencer
Consultant
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Hi Aileen, that's a fantastic question! Besides what you learn in class, try to think creatively about gaining business school skills. Joining a club or group with a Treasurer can be a great way to learn about managing money. This hands-on experience not only teaches you about finance but also makes you stand out by showing your business skills and leadership to potential schools!
Nitin P
7
Answers
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
Nitin’s Answer
If you're considering a business major, focus on building skills in math, writing, communication, economics, and technology during high school. Business majors need these skills, so take a mix of math, core subjects, and any available business electives.
Here's a suggested path:
9th grade: Take English, Algebra I or Geometry, Biology, World Geography or World History, and a basic computer, business, or finance elective if possible. This year, work on strong study habits and core skills.
10th grade: Enroll in English, Geometry or Algebra II, Chemistry, U.S. History or World History, and consider electives like Introduction to Business, Marketing, Accounting, or Computer Applications. Speech, debate, or public speaking classes are also valuable.
11th grade: Take English, Algebra II or Pre-Calculus, a science course, U.S. History, and electives like Economics, Personal Finance, Accounting, or AP Statistics. This is a good time to start classes that relate directly to business.
12th grade: Choose English, Statistics, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus based on your level, Government/Economics, and the best business-related electives available, like Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, or AP Economics. AP Statistics is especially useful.
Make sure to prioritize math every year, along with strong English and writing classes. If your school lacks business electives, focus on core subjects and show interest through clubs, projects, or summer programs. Colleges appreciate students who challenge themselves and show initiative.
Here's a suggested path:
9th grade: Take English, Algebra I or Geometry, Biology, World Geography or World History, and a basic computer, business, or finance elective if possible. This year, work on strong study habits and core skills.
10th grade: Enroll in English, Geometry or Algebra II, Chemistry, U.S. History or World History, and consider electives like Introduction to Business, Marketing, Accounting, or Computer Applications. Speech, debate, or public speaking classes are also valuable.
11th grade: Take English, Algebra II or Pre-Calculus, a science course, U.S. History, and electives like Economics, Personal Finance, Accounting, or AP Statistics. This is a good time to start classes that relate directly to business.
12th grade: Choose English, Statistics, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus based on your level, Government/Economics, and the best business-related electives available, like Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, or AP Economics. AP Statistics is especially useful.
Make sure to prioritize math every year, along with strong English and writing classes. If your school lacks business electives, focus on core subjects and show interest through clubs, projects, or summer programs. Colleges appreciate students who challenge themselves and show initiative.
Alyssa Sweda, CPA
Audit Professional
2
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Hi Aileen — that’s a great question. If you’re thinking about majoring in business, I’d highly recommend taking an introductory accounting class during your junior or senior year of high school. Accounting may not sound like the most exciting class at first, but it can be one of the most useful. It gives you a strong foundation and can make your first college business courses feel much more manageable.
For your freshman and sophomore years, focus on building a solid academic base with classes like English, math, science, and writing. Algebra, geometry, and a foreign language are especially helpful because they strengthen analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills — all of which are important in business.
As you move into your upperclassmen years, try to take electives that give you early exposure to business concepts, such as accounting, economics, or personal finance if your school offers them. That kind of experience can help you get ahead before college, even if you end up deciding not to major in accounting specifically.
My biggest advice is to stay proactive, but also enjoy the moment. It’s great to think ahead, but high school goes by quickly, so make sure you enjoy it along the way.
For your freshman and sophomore years, focus on building a solid academic base with classes like English, math, science, and writing. Algebra, geometry, and a foreign language are especially helpful because they strengthen analytical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills — all of which are important in business.
As you move into your upperclassmen years, try to take electives that give you early exposure to business concepts, such as accounting, economics, or personal finance if your school offers them. That kind of experience can help you get ahead before college, even if you end up deciding not to major in accounting specifically.
My biggest advice is to stay proactive, but also enjoy the moment. It’s great to think ahead, but high school goes by quickly, so make sure you enjoy it along the way.
Benjamin Pence, PMP
Consulting
6
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
"Business" is a big term, and you can have a lot of different jobs with a Business degree - my suggestion is to think about what area you'd like to focus in and take as many classes in that domain as possible. With that said, regardless of what you want to do/where you end up, a few areas below that I would recommend to ANYONE:
1) Accounting & Finance -- you don't need to become an expert, but every business (even non-profits) need to make money in some way. Knowing how businesses earn, track, and plan around money will help you in any type of job you want. For example, even if you decide you want to do Marketing (which most people would say is the opposite end of business from accounting), you will have a marketing budget to deal with - how you track and spend that budget matters . You learn that stuff in accounting and finance courses.
2) Competitive Strategy -- this is probably a college/university level course, but understanding how businesses determine their strategies and how the small decisions drive overall strategy is really important. If your company has a bad strategy, or bad execution of a good strategy, you will fail.
3) AI Prompting/ Intro to Computer Science -- the world is going the way of AI. Knowing how to prompt, how to use artifacts, how to manage agents, etc. will separate you from your peers.
1) Accounting & Finance -- you don't need to become an expert, but every business (even non-profits) need to make money in some way. Knowing how businesses earn, track, and plan around money will help you in any type of job you want. For example, even if you decide you want to do Marketing (which most people would say is the opposite end of business from accounting), you will have a marketing budget to deal with - how you track and spend that budget matters . You learn that stuff in accounting and finance courses.
2) Competitive Strategy -- this is probably a college/university level course, but understanding how businesses determine their strategies and how the small decisions drive overall strategy is really important. If your company has a bad strategy, or bad execution of a good strategy, you will fail.
3) AI Prompting/ Intro to Computer Science -- the world is going the way of AI. Knowing how to prompt, how to use artifacts, how to manage agents, etc. will separate you from your peers.
Kim Biador, MBA
Consulting/Training Delivery
4
Answers
Gilbert, Arizona
Updated
Kim’s Answer
If you're considering a major in business, I highly suggest taking communication and public speaking classes if your school offers them. These classes were incredibly valuable to me! In the business world, you'll often present ideas, collaborate with teams, and meet with clients. Being able to communicate clearly and confidently can really set you apart, no matter which business path you choose. While business and math classes are important, strong communication skills are something you'll use daily in your career.
Lindsey Kovalcik
Human Resources professional
2
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Lindsey’s Answer
Hi Aileen - Thank you for the question! I would say you are already trending in the right direction by being proactive in your approach! While there are many avenues you can take with a career in business, the foundation remains the same. Core courses would be: economics, accounting, statistics, HR principles such as organizational behavior/operations management, business law/ethics, marketing, strategy.
If you have a good understanding of "the basics" you will be able to make a more information decision when it comes time to chose a career path. The one thing about business vs. other career options is that there is some flexibility to chose a career path that is right for you. E.g. you may have a degree in accounting, but decide you are intrigued by supply chain so you can ask for more experience or look for an opportunity in that piece of the business.
Hope this helps and good luck!
If you have a good understanding of "the basics" you will be able to make a more information decision when it comes time to chose a career path. The one thing about business vs. other career options is that there is some flexibility to chose a career path that is right for you. E.g. you may have a degree in accounting, but decide you are intrigued by supply chain so you can ask for more experience or look for an opportunity in that piece of the business.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Christina Laincy
Consultant
2
Answers
Fairfield, Connecticut
Updated
Christina’s Answer
Consider taking AP classes that offer college credit. Focus on Finance, Accounting, and Economics. Statistics and introductory or core business classes will also be beneficial.
Jamie Northcutt
Senior Forensic Auditor
60
Answers
Selmer, Tennessee
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
I would try to focus on one area of business, such as accounting or marketing. You can try part-time jobs, research, job shadowing, etc. to figure out which area best fits you. This will allow you to focus more in high school on one area, such as accounting. Business in college is a very generic term that covers usually several majors, so look into which field you want to go into. If you find one that interests you, then I would recommend sticking to that path in high school and learning all you can to make sure it's the right fit for you before you go to college and major in it. Good luck!! It's great that you are already thinking about it.
Di An
Consulting
20
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Di’s Answer
In addition to the great classes people have recommended above, you can also see if your school offers a program called DECA. This program/club/class will give you some more practical experiences with business as well. I remember my DECA club and class ran a cookie business in the high school, the class covered business projects like marketing, and do a national business competition.
Sarah Stiffler
Accountant
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Hi Aileen! It is so great to hear that you are already thinking about what classes to take to major in business in college. You are already on the right path by thinking ahead!
If you want to major in business, focus on math, writing, economics, and technology.
Below are the best classes to take in high school:
English honors/AP every year
Math as advanced as you can handle, but goal is to get to Precalculus, Calculus, and Statistics
Economics / AP Economics if your school offers it
Accounting, business, marketing, or entrepreneurship
Computer science or data/technology classes
At least 2–3 years of one foreign language
History / social studies honors or AP
If you want to major in business, focus on math, writing, economics, and technology.
Below are the best classes to take in high school:
English honors/AP every year
Math as advanced as you can handle, but goal is to get to Precalculus, Calculus, and Statistics
Economics / AP Economics if your school offers it
Accounting, business, marketing, or entrepreneurship
Computer science or data/technology classes
At least 2–3 years of one foreign language
History / social studies honors or AP
Tucker Bhojwani
Consultant
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tucker’s Answer
I would recommend all the classes in math you can take, but also take advantage of any opportunity you have to speak in front of a group. Public speaking and presentation is a really valuable skill in the business world. It will help you in college and when you start working! Good luck, have fun with it, and don't worry too much about this.