Choosing High School Math Classes to Become an Engineer

Many students assume they need advanced mathematics in high school to enter the engineering field. They need even more than they think.

When considering which math curriculum to take in high school, students should consider the following: IIE, a manufacturing trade journal, published results from a survey of 4,700 engineering professors found that most students drop out of engineering because they cannot master the required mathematics. To pursue an engineering degree in college, students need to take rigorous classes in high school. And for the greatest chance to thrive in college, they should consider taking every math classes offered at their high school.

Algebra I & II

Engineers speak mathematics. Algebra is the first step to learning the language. Doing well in algebra remains a key predictor in college success, and even more so for engineers. Without success at this level, students often struggle with future math classes. Learning basic algebraic functions, logarithms, and linear equations creates a strong foundation on which to build mathematics success.

Geometry and Trigonometry

Geometry moves students into the third dimension of mathematics. Right triangle solutions, laws of cosines and equations for conic sections make up part of the necessary curriculum for future engineers. Sometimes, students in high school miss the link between algebra and geometry, but those on track for engineering careers need to make those connections. The work in Trigonometry marries geometry and algebra and prepares students for harder math concepts.

Calculus

Students learn how to calculate the derivative of a function in calculus, and engineers working and teaching in the field suggest that the more practice in doing derivations, the better. In addition, nearly half of students entering college need remediation in math if they stop at Algebra II in high school. In contrast, only one out of six needs help in college if they took high school calculus.

Physics

Though technically a science course, many students report that it feels like a math class, and for good reason. Physics expresses most of its concepts through mathematics. Authors struggle to explain Einstein’s work on special relativity, but nearly everyone knows the mathematical formula born of that research: E=MC2. One college admissions professional confides that students who apply for engineering college without taking physics in high school put themselves at a disadvantage versus those with it on their transcript.

Other Advanced Classes

The best math curriculum also introduces students to the concepts of complex numbers, probability and differential equations; topics covered in statistics, math analysis and AP Calculus, among others. Yet the most advanced high school math classes still only scratch the surface of what an engineer needs to know. James B. Hall, P.E., offers the same advice as the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics: In high school, “...take all the math and science courses available.”