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What high school classes should I take if I want to study business in college?
I’m currently in high school and I’m interested in studying business in college. What classes should I take, extracurricular activities should I do, and skills should I develop to prepare for a business major and become a competitive college applicant.
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18 answers
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Luis’s Answer
Business schools like to have students that demonstrate proactive leadership and entrepreneurship skills - so my advice is not so much to focus in school subjects to study, but on what you can do OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL.
Are you active in your community, helping others or organizing activities that provide a benefit to someone else? Do you volunteer in organizations that help the most disadvantaged? Look for ways in which you can mobilize others - usually this will entail you helping another organization (some times for free) and you get to either organize something, or coordinate something, or pull people together to accomplish something that wouldn't have otherwise happened. That is the role of a business leader - to create and organize things by pulling together people and mobilizing them. So if you get to do that for a couple of years, you will amass an incredible Resume that will show Business schools that you are always on the move, looking for ways to accomplish things with the help of others.
Are you active in your community, helping others or organizing activities that provide a benefit to someone else? Do you volunteer in organizations that help the most disadvantaged? Look for ways in which you can mobilize others - usually this will entail you helping another organization (some times for free) and you get to either organize something, or coordinate something, or pull people together to accomplish something that wouldn't have otherwise happened. That is the role of a business leader - to create and organize things by pulling together people and mobilizing them. So if you get to do that for a couple of years, you will amass an incredible Resume that will show Business schools that you are always on the move, looking for ways to accomplish things with the help of others.
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Janna’s Answer
If you’re interested in studying business in college, try to take advanced math and data analytics classes and challenging English courses. Learning to write clearly, especially in a memo style, will help you communicate key points concisely, which is a valuable skill in business, especially for executive level comms.
Get involved in organizations like DECA or FBLA, or any club where you can improve leadership and communication skills. Taking a public speaking course is also a great idea.
Overall, focus on building strong math, writing, and communication skills, and seek out extracurriculars that allow you to practice teamwork and leadership. This will help you become a competitive applicant and prepare you well for a business major.
Get involved in organizations like DECA or FBLA, or any club where you can improve leadership and communication skills. Taking a public speaking course is also a great idea.
Overall, focus on building strong math, writing, and communication skills, and seek out extracurriculars that allow you to practice teamwork and leadership. This will help you become a competitive applicant and prepare you well for a business major.
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Jaycelle’s Answer
The business field is wide-ranging, including areas like finance, accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, consulting, and operations, each needing different skills. Try out a small project in the real world, like selling items online, assisting a local business with social media, organizing a fundraiser, or managing a budget. These activities can help you find what you enjoy and give you interesting topics for college applications.
Focus on skills useful in any business job: clear writing, good communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and confidently presenting ideas.
Most importantly, don't join activities just because they seem impressive. A few experiences where you truly contributed and learned will often tell a better story than a long list of activities.
Focus on skills useful in any business job: clear writing, good communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and confidently presenting ideas.
Most importantly, don't join activities just because they seem impressive. A few experiences where you truly contributed and learned will often tell a better story than a long list of activities.
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Mitchell’s Answer
The business field is exciting and rewarding. Try to take on leadership roles at your school, like in student government or the DECA club. This is your chance to show off your leadership skills. Make sure to mention every club you've been a part of. Getting involved in your community is also a great way to find leadership opportunities.
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George’s Answer
Hello Isam
There are a couple approaches you can consider:
First, talk to your high school's guidance counselor. But also consider this: contact recruiters at local colleges, see what they look for. San Jose University's Lucas School of Business is a great place to begin building relationships; even if you don't attend, the school is in your town (based on your profile), you may have an opportunity to visit and talk to recruiters.
Best of luck
There are a couple approaches you can consider:
First, talk to your high school's guidance counselor. But also consider this: contact recruiters at local colleges, see what they look for. San Jose University's Lucas School of Business is a great place to begin building relationships; even if you don't attend, the school is in your town (based on your profile), you may have an opportunity to visit and talk to recruiters.
Best of luck
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Sean’s Answer
To get ready for college and improve your resume, try these steps:
- Take a higher-level math class, like Pre-calculus, to challenge yourself.
- Enroll in an advanced English or Literature class that interests you to boost your reading and writing skills.
- Contact your local junior college, such as De Anza or San Jose City, to explore their business courses. Taking 1-3 classes can give you a glimpse into business studies and strengthen your resume by showing your commitment.
- Start a project or program you care about that benefits your community. This will highlight your organizational and communication skills and show your personality and impact on others.
- Take a higher-level math class, like Pre-calculus, to challenge yourself.
- Enroll in an advanced English or Literature class that interests you to boost your reading and writing skills.
- Contact your local junior college, such as De Anza or San Jose City, to explore their business courses. Taking 1-3 classes can give you a glimpse into business studies and strengthen your resume by showing your commitment.
- Start a project or program you care about that benefits your community. This will highlight your organizational and communication skills and show your personality and impact on others.
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Jordan’s Answer
Statistics is the course I found most useful to my business career while in high school. The concepts in stats really frame your mind to be data-driven and analytical, which is a skillset and muscle as someone in business that is crucial to develop early on.
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Jake’s Answer
Hi Isam-
A lot of great feedback here. I would echo the statement that what you do OUTSIDE of classes is what really sets you apart. In college, or even on the job, you can learn the technical skills you would get in the classroom, but it is much harder to teach leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, communication, skills like that.
While math is very important for business, I think the reason it is important is because it teaches problem solving, and it's more about "figuring out the answer" rather than "memorizing the answer." I would suggest writing classes (even something like creative writing for fun) makes you much more well-rounded and teaches you skills you might not even realize you need to strengthen!
Best of luck in your schooling, and don't forget to take on extra-curriculars (especially leadership roles) as well!
A lot of great feedback here. I would echo the statement that what you do OUTSIDE of classes is what really sets you apart. In college, or even on the job, you can learn the technical skills you would get in the classroom, but it is much harder to teach leadership, problem solving, critical thinking, communication, skills like that.
While math is very important for business, I think the reason it is important is because it teaches problem solving, and it's more about "figuring out the answer" rather than "memorizing the answer." I would suggest writing classes (even something like creative writing for fun) makes you much more well-rounded and teaches you skills you might not even realize you need to strengthen!
Best of luck in your schooling, and don't forget to take on extra-curriculars (especially leadership roles) as well!
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Shanelle’s Answer
If you're excited about business, think about taking these classes:
Math: Try Algebra II, Statistics, or Calculus
Economics: Start with Intro to Economics or AP Economics
Business: Explore Accounting, Marketing, or Entrepreneurship
English: Take writing and communication classes
Computer Science: Great for business tech and data skills
AP/IB classes: Consider them if they're available and you can handle them
Remember, you don't need to take every business class. Focus on improving your math, communication, and problem-solving skills. You're on the right path!
Math: Try Algebra II, Statistics, or Calculus
Economics: Start with Intro to Economics or AP Economics
Business: Explore Accounting, Marketing, or Entrepreneurship
English: Take writing and communication classes
Computer Science: Great for business tech and data skills
AP/IB classes: Consider them if they're available and you can handle them
Remember, you don't need to take every business class. Focus on improving your math, communication, and problem-solving skills. You're on the right path!
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Wong’s Answer
Hi Isam. If you want to study business in college, you may take high school classes that build strong skills in math, writing, and communication, such as algebra, statistics, economics, accounting, business, and English when they are available. If your school offers advanced or honors classes, consider taking them when they fit your abilities.
Extracurricular activities can also help you explore business. You could join a business or entrepreneurship club, participate in business competitions, or take part in organizations such as student government. You could also start a small business, school project, or fundraiser to gain real-world experience.
Try to develop skills that are useful in many areas of business. Communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, organization, and public speaking are especially valuable. Learning basic technology and data skills, such as spreadsheets and presentations, can also be helpful.
When applying to college, focus on doing a few activities well rather than joining many clubs just to fill your application. Also, look for opportunities where you can take responsibility and make a real contribution. For example, you could become a club leader or organize a project that helps your school or community. All the best.
Extracurricular activities can also help you explore business. You could join a business or entrepreneurship club, participate in business competitions, or take part in organizations such as student government. You could also start a small business, school project, or fundraiser to gain real-world experience.
Try to develop skills that are useful in many areas of business. Communication, teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, organization, and public speaking are especially valuable. Learning basic technology and data skills, such as spreadsheets and presentations, can also be helpful.
When applying to college, focus on doing a few activities well rather than joining many clubs just to fill your application. Also, look for opportunities where you can take responsibility and make a real contribution. For example, you could become a club leader or organize a project that helps your school or community. All the best.
Updated
Jezlea’s Answer
For classes, prioritize anything that builds analytical and communication skills simultaneously since those are the two foundations every business program builds on. AP Economics, AP Statistics, and AP Calculus are the strongest academic signals to admissions committees that you can handle the quantitative side of a business degree. AP Language and Composition or any advanced writing course matters just as much because business is fundamentally about communicating ideas persuasively and clearly. If your school offers any accounting, finance, or marketing electives take them. They demonstrate genuine interest beyond just saying business sounds appealing on an application.
For extracurriculars, starting a small business or side hustle of any kind, even something modest like a service or product you sell locally, demonstrates entrepreneurial initiative that stands out enormously on applications and in interviews. Student government, debate, and any leadership role in clubs you genuinely care about all build the communication, collaboration, and decision making skills that business programs and employers consistently look for.
The skills worth developing intentionally right now are financial literacy, public speaking, and basic data literacy. Understanding how money works, being comfortable presenting ideas confidently in front of others, and knowing your way around Excel or Google Sheets will make your first year of college significantly smoother than peers who arrive without that foundation. Reading business news through outlets like the Wall Street Journal or Bloomberg casually but consistently also builds the industry awareness and vocabulary that will make you a more informed and compelling applicant and eventually a stronger business student.
For extracurriculars, starting a small business or side hustle of any kind, even something modest like a service or product you sell locally, demonstrates entrepreneurial initiative that stands out enormously on applications and in interviews. Student government, debate, and any leadership role in clubs you genuinely care about all build the communication, collaboration, and decision making skills that business programs and employers consistently look for.
The skills worth developing intentionally right now are financial literacy, public speaking, and basic data literacy. Understanding how money works, being comfortable presenting ideas confidently in front of others, and knowing your way around Excel or Google Sheets will make your first year of college significantly smoother than peers who arrive without that foundation. Reading business news through outlets like the Wall Street Journal or Bloomberg casually but consistently also builds the industry awareness and vocabulary that will make you a more informed and compelling applicant and eventually a stronger business student.
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Ryan’s Answer
Hey Isam!
Math, math, and math!
A lot of students that I have talked to encourage themselves to study broadly but think because there are many avenues of business that aren't focused on mathematics, they can skip out on doing classes like functions and calculus. Even if you feel that math isn't your strongest subject, it's important to build out your skills and keep building your understanding of core mathematical concepts, as most areas of business have at least a general mathematical requirement (forecasting, budgeting, accounting, etc).
As for extraciriculars, focus on things that you feel you are closest to you. I personally believe the key to success is participating in things you enjoy, as if you enjoy them, you'll chose to spend more of your free time and energy thinking about how to make those things better and others will enjoy your energy that you have towards them. This can be sports, clubs, or activities that engage and bring other people together.
Ryan
Math, math, and math!
A lot of students that I have talked to encourage themselves to study broadly but think because there are many avenues of business that aren't focused on mathematics, they can skip out on doing classes like functions and calculus. Even if you feel that math isn't your strongest subject, it's important to build out your skills and keep building your understanding of core mathematical concepts, as most areas of business have at least a general mathematical requirement (forecasting, budgeting, accounting, etc).
As for extraciriculars, focus on things that you feel you are closest to you. I personally believe the key to success is participating in things you enjoy, as if you enjoy them, you'll chose to spend more of your free time and energy thinking about how to make those things better and others will enjoy your energy that you have towards them. This can be sports, clubs, or activities that engage and bring other people together.
Ryan
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Erin’s Answer
Hi Isam -
Great question, and it's smart that you're thinking about this now.
Classes: Take the highest level math you can handle, ideally through pre-calc or calculus, since business programs care a lot about your math grades. If your school offers economics, accounting, or intro to business, take those too. Don't skip English and writing classes either. Business is about communicating clearly as much as it is about numbers.
Extracurriculars: Student government or clubs where you handle a budget or organize events also show colleges you can lead and take ownership of something. A part-time job (even at a retail store or restaurant) is more valuable than people think. It teaches you responsibility and how a business actually runs day to day.
Skills: Work on public speaking whenever you get the chance. Whether it's a class, a club, or a competition, this will help you more than almost anything else in a business career. Also get comfortable with basic spreadsheets (Excel or Google Sheets). You'll use them constantly.
When it's time to apply to colleges, look at each school's business program website to see what they emphasize, and check if they offer any way to explore different areas of business (finance, marketing, management) before you have to pick a focus.
One more thing for down the road: if you think you might want an MBA eventually, keep it in the back of your mind once you're in college. Most MBA programs want to see courses like finance, accounting, and statistics on your undergrad transcript, so it's worth checking those prerequisites early so you don't have to scramble later. Not something to stress about now, just something to remember.
Great job thinking ahead. Good luck!
Great question, and it's smart that you're thinking about this now.
Classes: Take the highest level math you can handle, ideally through pre-calc or calculus, since business programs care a lot about your math grades. If your school offers economics, accounting, or intro to business, take those too. Don't skip English and writing classes either. Business is about communicating clearly as much as it is about numbers.
Extracurriculars: Student government or clubs where you handle a budget or organize events also show colleges you can lead and take ownership of something. A part-time job (even at a retail store or restaurant) is more valuable than people think. It teaches you responsibility and how a business actually runs day to day.
Skills: Work on public speaking whenever you get the chance. Whether it's a class, a club, or a competition, this will help you more than almost anything else in a business career. Also get comfortable with basic spreadsheets (Excel or Google Sheets). You'll use them constantly.
When it's time to apply to colleges, look at each school's business program website to see what they emphasize, and check if they offer any way to explore different areas of business (finance, marketing, management) before you have to pick a focus.
One more thing for down the road: if you think you might want an MBA eventually, keep it in the back of your mind once you're in college. Most MBA programs want to see courses like finance, accounting, and statistics on your undergrad transcript, so it's worth checking those prerequisites early so you don't have to scramble later. Not something to stress about now, just something to remember.
Great job thinking ahead. Good luck!
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Binata’s Answer
Hi Isam-- Great you are thinking about this now! There are a lot of excellent answers in this thread. I wanted to add one thought around extracurriculars --- this is another way to build our skills and knowledge. Clubs like Junior Achievement, DECA and FBLA are great ways to learn skills, meet other people interested in this topic and get mentors. These can be within your school or in the local community. Good luck with your learning journey!
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Kareena’s Answer
Hey there! It's awesome that you're planning ahead. For classes, try to take AP Economics, AP Statistics, and honors English. If your school has Business or Accounting, go for those too. Math and writing are super important for business programs.
For activities, think about joining clubs like Debate, Model UN, or DECA. Starting a small business or project is great, even if it's something simple. Leadership roles are more important than being in a lot of clubs. Get familiar with Excel, practice speaking in public, and stay curious about how companies and markets work.
Here's the key: colleges care about what you do outside of class just as much as your grades. Choose activities you really enjoy and show true interest in. That means more than trying to do everything. You're already on the right track by thinking about this now!
For activities, think about joining clubs like Debate, Model UN, or DECA. Starting a small business or project is great, even if it's something simple. Leadership roles are more important than being in a lot of clubs. Get familiar with Excel, practice speaking in public, and stay curious about how companies and markets work.
Here's the key: colleges care about what you do outside of class just as much as your grades. Choose activities you really enjoy and show true interest in. That means more than trying to do everything. You're already on the right track by thinking about this now!
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you have interest in Business.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers in the remit of Business ,e.g Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, Administration, etc. each may have different criteria in the college and different college have strength in different subjects. You can find out more on more Business related careers.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Attend the information session hosts by Business faculty of colleges
4. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc.
5. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
6. Do some research on the college good at the relevant subject and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers in the remit of Business ,e.g Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resources, Administration, etc. each may have different criteria in the college and different college have strength in different subjects. You can find out more on more Business related careers.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Attend the information session hosts by Business faculty of colleges
4. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc.
5. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
6. Do some research on the college good at the relevant subject and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Tracey’s Answer
Planning ahead for a business major while you are in high school is such a great start! Business is driven by data, so taking AP Statistics or Calculus shows colleges you can handle quantitative analysis. Public speaking is also valuable since communicating your ideas clearly is essential in the corporate world. Outside of the classroom, join clubs, volunteer work, or even a part time job. Colleges value this type of practical experience.
I would also suggest getting familiar with Microsoft Excel. It is the primary tool used in finance. Spending time on YouTube tutorials to learn basic formulas and pivot tables before college will give you a significant advantage over your peers.
I would also suggest getting familiar with Microsoft Excel. It is the primary tool used in finance. Spending time on YouTube tutorials to learn basic formulas and pivot tables before college will give you a significant advantage over your peers.
Updated
Rawan’s Answer
Hi Islam,
While I wasn't a business major, I have taken some helpful business courses that directly benefitted me in my career and have many peers who majored in business.
The first thing I would recommend is being open to the many facets of business-- even the non-conventional routes. There are many ways to be involved in the field, ranging from supply chain/operations, entrepreneurship, all the way to international business investment. You may find that in courses you'll gravitate towards one facet over another and you can continue building your knowledge on that specific interest via connections within your teachers, research with local universities, high school internships, and clubs.
In terms of searching for opportunities, which will help you solidify if this field is of interest to you, I highly recommend initially reaching out to folks via LinkedIn or your connections in your community which your counselor or teachers can guide you through, to understand the paths they took. From there, start understanding the application timeline of the internships you're interested in so you're prepared for that once you're in college. Simultaneously, gather your notes and insights from your meetings to share your own personal story + reasoning behind your interests.
Hope this helps!
While I wasn't a business major, I have taken some helpful business courses that directly benefitted me in my career and have many peers who majored in business.
The first thing I would recommend is being open to the many facets of business-- even the non-conventional routes. There are many ways to be involved in the field, ranging from supply chain/operations, entrepreneurship, all the way to international business investment. You may find that in courses you'll gravitate towards one facet over another and you can continue building your knowledge on that specific interest via connections within your teachers, research with local universities, high school internships, and clubs.
In terms of searching for opportunities, which will help you solidify if this field is of interest to you, I highly recommend initially reaching out to folks via LinkedIn or your connections in your community which your counselor or teachers can guide you through, to understand the paths they took. From there, start understanding the application timeline of the internships you're interested in so you're prepared for that once you're in college. Simultaneously, gather your notes and insights from your meetings to share your own personal story + reasoning behind your interests.
Hope this helps!