High School Course Catalog
The catalog below lists every high school course we offer, our graduation requirements, and the Honors and AP options available on request. Every course is customized to the student through our one-on-one tutorial model, so treat this as a starting point for planning.
To download the course catalog in PDF format, click here.
Mission
Our goal is to facilitate student success in a space where students and teachers can develop meaningful relationships and thrive. We value engaging curriculum, flexibility, and a holistic approach to support the individual needs of our students.
Our vision includes academic programming for our students that inspires:
a love of learning
confidence
self-advocacy
We provide students with a combination of one-on-one, live teacher support and customized curriculum. This isn’t the average way students learn, but then again, we’re not an average school.
We have innovated on the tutorial model used at Oxford and Cambridge to help our students become independent and creative thinkers. Our one-on-one instruction, our exceptional teachers, and our visionary leadership support our students through every step of the learning process. When working with us, it’s common for children to exceed grade level expectations. Through our one-on-one tutorials, K-12 students find deep learning and success.
Pacific Preparatory is accredited by Cognia (NCA CASI, SACS CASI, and NWAC). Our high school academic courses are UC A-G approved, and many are also NCAA-approved. To confirm the status of a specific course, please contact us or consult the UC A-G Course List and the NCAA Eligibility Center. Learn more about Pacific Preparatory via our school profile.
| History A-G Category A |
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| English A-G Category B |
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| Mathematics A-G Category C |
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| Science A-G Category D |
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| Languages A-G Category E |
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| Visual & Performing Arts A-G Category F |
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| Electives A-G Category G |
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| Additional Pacific Prep Requirements |
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High School Graduation Requirements
Our baseline graduation requirements for full-time high school students enrolled at Pacific Preparatory meet both California’s high school graduation requirements and the UC A-G subject requirements.
In order to achieve a meaningful holistic educational experience, we recommend the following academic course of study. We also recommend supplementing PacPrep programming with community engagement, including enrolling in local sports teams, activities, and community service. Please see minimum requirements.
Course Selection and Customization Process
Incoming students will create a customized four year course plan in collaboration with the admissions team. This plan will take into account graduation requirements, goals, interests and needs.
Coursework will be modified according to student needs and core academic standards. We may also make recommendations around college counselors, test preparation, or other wrap-around support services. These recommendations will aim to provide the student and their family with a robust high school experience that prepares them for their next stage. Our recommendation is students carefully pair required coursework with complementary electives in order to provide a robust, engaging & well-rounded high school experience.
Assessment of Course Completion
In order to pass their classes and move on to higher-level coursework, students must prove their mastery of subjects through a combination of participation in classes, assessment via projects or testing, and teacher recommendation.
If a teacher does not recommend a student for course completion, the student may need to complete summer remediation or retake the course to receive credit towards graduation.
Academic Calendar
In general, the schedule for Pacific Preparatory follows that of a traditional academic school year, with federal holidays and longer breaks in the winter and spring.
Students may also choose to continue coursework over the summer and/or on a fully customized schedule.
Grades, GPA and Progress Reporting
Students in all program types will receive diagnostic assessments (ELA and math), syllabi, progress reports, and report cards. All high school students will receive semester grades and their GPAs will be weighted if they have opted to take AP and/or Honors-level courses. Official transcripts are provided upon request.
Students enrolled at PacPrep may earn credit for a course taken at another school. The course must be academically comparable and meet formal grading expectations. Additionally, credit must be discussed ahead of enrollment and is then accepted at the discretion of Pacific Preparatory.
Advising and Special Topics
Our Dean of Students provides advisory support to full time students, specific to their goals in the classroom and beyond.
Advising includes, but is not limited to:
Goals
Extracurriculars
Volunteer & internship opportunities
Leadership & entrepreneurship projects
Standardized Testing
We recommend college-bound students consider preparations for taking standardized tests as part of their coursework. Considering these preparations at least a year prior to the exam date will provide ample time to prepare. We are happy to support test prep through our tutoring program.
Tests include:
PSAT or PreACT
SAT or ACT
AP exams
High School Course Listings
Courses described below are organized by subject area and provide a baseline for academic planning purposes. Through our customization process, we adjust the content of our syllabi for each student according to that student’s goals, interests and needs.
History | A-G Category A
American Democracy: We all want to understand our rights and responsibilities as United States citizens, as well as learn how to exercise those rights and responsibilities at the local, state, and national governmental levels. In this course students will actively engage with material that demonstrates exactly how our leaders currently do that. In turn, they will analyze their own roles and responsibilities within the United States legal system.
Modern World History: Students will explore the major formative events in history that have shaped the world since the middle ages, including intellectual trends, revolutionary movements, social interactions, political ideologies, economic theories and geographical impacts.
Social Justice 9, 10, 11, or 12: Beginning with an overview of the U.S. Constitution, the three branches of government, and the system of checks and balances, students will engage in understanding how different social movements have shaped and been shaped by government policy over time.
Survey of World Religions: Students will study world’s religions -- including Indigenous religions around the world, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Abrahamic Religions, and some of the newer religious followings to have emerged within the past 200-300 years. Students will discuss historical background, the fundamental beliefs and concepts of each, and some narratives of the experiences of individual practitioners.
United States History: Students will learn the history of America starting from pre-colonial times to the present. This course also provides an overview of the political systems of American government and its history.
Women in United States History: Students will explore major historical changes influenced and inspired by women. Content will be taught through women-centered and women-written primary and secondary sources, allowing students to approach history through a woman-centered lens of engagement.
World History: Students will engage in global history to the present. Considering how a modern system of communication and exchange drew peoples of the world into an increasingly complex network of relationships, including exerting great military and economic power from Europe and the United States.
| Honors Classes See course descriptions. Courses can be tailored to students’ interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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English | A-G Category B
English 9: Students will read a range of genres in English Language Arts including novels, drama, poetry, creative nonfiction, journalism and fiction, exploring techniques authors employ using language and structure to tell their stories. Students will also practice organizing their responses and ideas in the form of essays, reports and creative writing, developing their voices as writers.
English 10: In this continuation of English 9, students will hone their analytical reading, writing and thinking skills through a variety of texts in a variety of genres according to a customized theme. Themes could include (but are not limited to): The American Dream, Dystopias & Apocalypses, Nature & Technology, Ethical Dilemmas.
English 11: Building on English 10, students will hone their analytical reading, writing and thinking skills through a variety of texts in a variety of genres according to a customized theme. Themes could include (but are not limited to): The American Dream, Dystopias & Apocalypses, Nature & Technology, Ethical Dilemmas.
English 12: In this continuation of English 11, students will hone their analytical reading, writing and thinking skills through a variety of texts in a variety of genres according to a customized theme. Themes could include (but are not limited to): The American Dream, Dystopias & Apocalypses, Nature & Technology, Ethical Dilemmas.
Creative Writing (1 semester): In this course, students will explore multiple genres of creative writing, including poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, and drama, with an emphasis on developing their own authentic voice. Students will study the craft of writing through guided exercises, close reading of exemplary works, and analysis of narrative techniques such as imagery, dialogue, character development, and structure. Through a combination of independent projects and personalized workshops, they will receive ongoing feedback to refine their work and deepen their understanding of storytelling.
Intro to Poetry (1 semester): Students will gain a foundational and lasting understanding of poetry as a literary medium. Through both analysis of mentor texts and students’ original creations, they will learn to read poetry closely and write about it with confidence. Students will have a large influence over the poems of focus; and, they will write and revise their own poems throughout the course. Starting with a structured, methodical approach, students will gradually be given increasing freedom, as they gain comfort, to write their own poetry and reveal their mastery of various skills through individual creations.
Science Fiction & Literature: This year-long course explores how science fiction examines the relationship between humanity, technology, and scientific possibility across different eras and cultures. Through novels, short stories, and multimedia texts, students will investigate key themes such as identity, ethics, innovation, climate change, and the future of society, gaining a deeper understanding of how speculative narratives reflect real scientific and social challenges. By the end of the year, students will be able to analyze complex texts, connect literature to scientific concepts, and communicate their ideas through creative, analytical, and project-based assignments.
Humanities (1 semester): This course can be designed and customized around students’ individual interests. This course will explore different genres, both literary and non-literary by incorporating elements of choice of reading material and writing styles. Students will identify the characteristics of written genres as well as elements of writing by providing evidence of their knowledge by choosing relevant texts and composing well-written pieces of varying length and form. They will investigate the recursive process of writing through writing well-structured pieces focused on specific content and for different kinds of audiences.
| Honors Classes See course descriptions. Courses can be tailored to students’ interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Mathematics | A-G Category C
Algebra I: Students will learn the basics of algebra I, including foundational concepts, solving equations & inequalities, units of measurement, linear equations & graphs, inequalities, functions, sequences, exponents & radicals, quadratics & quadratic functions, and irrational numbers.
Geometry: Students will learn the basics of geometry, including foundational concepts, transformations, congruence, similarity, triangles, solid geometry, analytic geometry, and circles.
Algebra II: Building upon prior learning, this course will explore the basics of algebra II, including interpreting and transforming functions (linear, absolute value, quadratic, polynomial), complex numbers, matrices, inequalities, factoring polynomials, and more.
Applied Mathematics: This course is designed to improve the student’s understanding of how math is used and the underlying logic and techniques used to problem solve in the real world. At the end of this course, each student will be able to use the years of math they have learned to model and predict outcomes of novel problems.
Precalculus: The foundation of calculus will be explored in this class. Studying the properties and graphs of trigonometric, rational, inverse, exponential, polynomial and logarithmic functions, students will build upon prior learning to strengthen their understanding of inequalities, polar coordinates, vectors, sequences, series and limits.
Trigonometry: Students will learn to solve geometric problems using Law of Sines, Cosines, and area formulas and use the basic trigonometric identities to verify other trigonometric identities and to simplify complex expressions. They will use real-world applications to introduce the definition, application, and visual representation of functions.
Calculus AB: Students will learn a variety of topics in calculus, such as limits, differentiation and integration of functions. Students will find derivatives and evaluate finite and infinite limits graphically, numerically and analytically.
Calculus BC: Students will learn a variety of topics in calculus, such as functions and graphs, limits, continuity, derivatives and differentiation, composite, implicit and inverse functions, contextual applications, analytical applications, integration and accumulation of change, parametric equations and polar coordinates.
Statistics: Students will learn the fundamentals of exploratory analysis, data collection, probability, sampling distributions, inference for quantitative data and more.
| Honors Classes See course descriptions. Courses can be tailored to students’ interests.Students must complete at least 3 years of high school math before taking an honors math course. Students may take more rigorous versions of Algebra, Geometry and Algebra 2 but they will not be graded on the Honors GPA scale. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Science | A-G Category D
Astronomy: This course provides a survey of fundamental topics in Astronomy, including planetary science, stellar and galactic evolution, and cosmology. In addition to exploring the physical science basis of astronomy, it draws on concepts from anthropology and history to place space study and exploration in a historical and societal context. AP Physics and Calculus are not required, but can be integrated into many of the units if taken simultaneously.
Biology: Students will study the basics of biology, including foundational concepts, cells and cell processes, DNA, genetics, evolution, viruses & bacteria, classification & taxonomy, and the science of plants & animals. This course includes a lab component.
Chemistry: Students will learn the fundamentals of chemistry including the periodic system, atoms, molecules and ions, stoichiometry, atomic structure and bonding, gases, liquids and solids, properties of solutions, energy, acids and bases, and organic chemistry. This course also includes a lab component.
Earth Science: Students will study the dynamic relationships among Earth's four primary spheres: the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Students will learn how Earth formed, how its landscapes developed, and why it continues to change.
Environmental Science: Students will use their understanding of new science concepts to: examine ways to make responsible decisions about one’s health and the environment; enhance critical and process thinking skills; develop an appreciation of the cultural significance of the environment and environmental practices across space and time; and engage in a thoughtful manner with larger issues of societal responsibility and social justice in response to environmental threats. This course also includes a lab component.
Marine Biology: Students will be introduced to three subfields of Marine Biology: chemical and physical features of the ocean, organisms of the sea, and marine ecosystems. Students will explore these phenomena first hand, participating in labs and field studies and use photography, film, audiobooks, and scaffolded reading of academic literature to further investigate the course content.
Physics: Students will learn the fundamentals of physics including the study of motion, energy, heat, radioactivity, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, relativity and cosmology. This course includes a lab component.
| Honors Classes See course descriptions. Courses can be tailored to students’ interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Languages | A-G Category E
Course options include:
American Sign Language I, II, III
Spanish I, II, III, IV
French I, II, III
Italian I, II, III
German I, II, III
Latin I, II, III
Japanese I, II, III
Mandarin I, II, III
| Honors Classes These classes include specialty topics based around each student’s interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Visual & Performing Arts | A-G Category F
Art History: Through an interdisciplinary approach encompassing art, history, culture, and aesthetics, students will study human creativity and expression across different periods, regions, and artistic movements.
Digital Arts & Design: This class will focus on creating artwork digitally, encouraging students to understand how to brainstorm, plan, and create engaging images using a camera, as well as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
Digital Illustration: Throughout the course, students will engage in practical assignments and critiques to develop their skills in digital illustration. The emphasis will be on both technical proficiency with digital tools and creative expression in visual storytelling.
Digital Photography: Students will learn the fundamentals of digital photography, including composition, lighting and image editing. This course culminates in a portfolio evaluation based on the student’s chosen interest, whether they aim to pursue commercial, architectural, fine art, editorial or documentary photography.
Drawing & Painting: This course will provide students with both numerous opportunities to explore a variety of drawing and painting techniques, as well as the art historical basis behind the techniques and mediums studied and current artist practices by contemporary artists.
Film Making: Students will work through every stage of filmmaking, including writing, shooting, editing, presenting, and critiquing their own and others’ work. Students will have the opportunity to share their work through screenings, collaborative projects, and multimedia presentations.
Film Studies: Learning different methods and frameworks through which to interpret film, students will understand how films make meaning, and gain skills to situate films within history, industrial and social contexts.
Illustration: Students will practice each stage of the illustration process, including conceptualization, visual storytelling, and technical execution.
Introduction to Graphic Design: Students will explore the principles of design, color theory, typography, logo design and page layout through readings, discussion and practice. This course combines a high-level approach to design theory with a hands-on introduction to necessary software.
Music Appreciation: In this introductory course, students will listen to and study music across genres, cultures, historical periods, and styles.
2D Art: Through a series of hands-on projects, critiques, lectures, and discussions, students will explore various traditional and contemporary approaches to creating 2D artwork, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media.
3D Art: Students will create 3D work in several forms, including sculpture, modeling, rendering, and digital animation.
| Honors Classes These classes include specialty topics based around each student’s interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Electives | A-G Category G
Artificial Intelligence Literacy: Students will study artificial intelligence and its implications through literature, essays, and critical discussion.
College to Career: This semester-long course will cover a variety of topics related to life after high school. Students will explore a range of post-secondary options, including college, vocational programs, and gap years.
Computer Science: This course introduces students to the core concepts, principles, and applications of computer science. Students will practice breaking problems into logical steps and building solutions to them.
Economics: Students will learn the fundamental concepts of economics, from micro to macro. By the end of the course they will better understand how the market functions and see the world through the perspective of an economist.
Entrepreneurship: This practical course teaches the knowledge and skills students need to pursue entrepreneurship. The course focuses on key ideas and themes such as opportunity recognition, business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and ethical considerations.
Ethnic Studies: Honoring the historical legacy of social movements and mass struggles against injustice, this course aims to educate students to be politically, socially, and economically conscious about their personal connections to local and global histories.
Health & Body: This course will help students develop the habits and mindset they need to live healthy, happy lives. We will take a student-centered approach, following the student’s lead to focus on issues of importance to them and their lives.
History of Hip Hop: This course aims to explore the history, cultural significance, and artistic development of hip hop music. Students will study the key ideas and themes of hip hop, including its origins, influential artists and movements, and its impact on society.
History of Rock 'n' Roll: The History of Rock 'n' Roll course explores the development, evolution, and impact of rock music from its origins to the present day. Students will study the key ideas and themes in rock music history, including the cultural, social, and artistic influences that shaped the genre.
Kinesiology: Using prior knowledge, students will study the mechanics of movement, including analyzing motivation, barriers, and other factors at play. Exploring anatomy and physiology, human performance and biomechanics will be taught in addition to laws and concepts of physics. Research, collaborative projects, and connections to everyday life will be core components.
Introduction to Psychology: In this course, students will begin to explore the social science of psychology. Psychology is the systematic study of human behavior through two lenses--the physical reasons that we do what we do, and the environmental reasons that we do what we do (Nature v. Nurture).
Personal Finance: This course provides students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to manage personal finances responsibly and confidently.
Sewing & Textiles: This course offers a blend of practical skill-building and critical thinking, teaching students to create with both purpose and style while learning to read, think and write about fashion in a critical manner.
Speech Writing & Public Speaking: Students will learn the fundamentals of speech writing and practice delivering presentations with the goal of reducing anxieties around public speaking.
| Honors Classes See course descriptions. Courses can be tailored to students’ interests. |
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses, Available on Request Each AP course is authorized through the College Board’s AP Course Audit before the student begins, so it appears as AP on the student’s transcript. Please request AP courses at the time of course planning. |
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Health
Pacific Preparatory high school students take a one-semester health course, usually in grade 9 or 10, aligned with the California Health Education Content Standards. Taught one-on-one, it covers mental and emotional health, growth and sexual health, substance use, safety, nutrition, and personal and community health, and it ends with a health promotion project each student designs.
Physical Education
PacPrep requires two years of physical education accepted through evidence of weekly dedication to movement. Students often fulfill this requirement through independent study and/or participation in their local community. Potential areas of focus include:
Movement (pilates, yoga, stretching, etc.)
Dance of any kind
Weight lifting/training
Team sports
Class workouts
Swimming
Jogging, walking, hiking, or biking
Please contact our leadership team to discuss courses in detail and/or inquire about classes not currently listed.
Course Catalog updated October 29, 2026.
Get started with Pacific Preparatory today.
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