Pre-College Curriculum Requirements

English/Language Arts (four credits required)

English I, English II, English III, English IV (or AP English).

Mathematics (three credits required)

Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry.*

Science (three credits required)

Credits to include life science, physical science and earth/space science (with at least one lab course).

Social Studies (three credits required)

From U.S. history, economics, government, world geography and world civilization.

Health (one-half credit required)

Physical Education (one-half credit required)

History and Appreciation of Visual, Performing Arts (one credit required)

History and appreciation of visual and performing arts or another arts course that incorporates such content.

Foreign Language (two credits required in same language or demonstrated competency)

Electives (five credits required, **five rigorous)

Recommended strongly: one or more courses that develop computer literacy.

Total Credits: 22

(17 required credits; five-elective credits).

*A student may substitute an integrated, applied, interdisciplinary or higher-level course within a program of study if the substituted course offers the same or greater academic rigor and the course covers or exceeds the minimum required content.

**Rigorous electives should have academic content at least as challenging as that in courses required in the minimum high school graduation requirements. These electives also should be in social studies, science, math, English and language arts, arts and humanities, foreign language and above the introductory level, in agriculture, industrial technology, business, marketing, family and consumer sciences, health sciences, technology education and career pathways. Electives in physical education and health are limited to one-half unit each.

Exceptions to the Pre-College Curriculum

The following shall be exempted from the requirements of the Kentucky Pre-College Curriculum:

  1. Students who are 21 years of age or older at time of application;
  2. Students entering baccalaureate degree status with 24 or more credit hours applicable to a baccalaureate degree with a GPA of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale;
  3. Students who meet the ACT or SAT exemption scores in a subject;
  4. Active duty military personnel, their spouses, and their dependents;
  5. A student enrolled in an associate degree program;
  6. Out-of-state students; or
  7. International students.

The above is subject to approval by the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education.

When admitted, a student is locked into an associate degree program unless the student has an academic index of 450 or above.