College Preparatory Degree - Online and Campus Programs
College preparatory programs, often in the form of high school completion or diploma programs can provide a means to higher education, more money, and greater job potential. Not only do high school diploma holders earn more on average than those without diplomas, a tremendous number of careers require at least a diploma for consideration at all. What's more, the vast majority of college degree or certificate programs require a high school diploma for admission, which would likely lead to an even bigger job pool or salary boost. Enrolling in a high school completion program, particularly one offering college preparatory classes is a great first step.
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What You Should Know About College Prep Programs
The amount of time required to finish a high school completion program often depends on the student because most are self-guided. Many online high schools offer a specialized program, and one can typically earn their diploma faster that way, rather than through a traditional high school. College preparatory classes typically include many of the same courses typical high school students take, including:
- Mathematics
- English
- Social Studies
- Science
- Foreign Language
Some college prep programs offer a specialized concentration as well, such as health, computers, or a skilled vocational trade. These types of programs can be particularly helpful to those who hope to enroll in a college degree program in a related field. As noted, a high school diploma boosts employment and salary potential. According to the US Census Bureau's 2000 survey, a high school graduate earned on average $7,000 more than a worker with some high school credit. The gap widened significantly among those who later used this credential to enroll in a college degree program.