Feb 17
AP Classes That Best Prepare You for STEM Majors
For high school students looking to pursue a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM), selecting the right Advanced Placement (AP) courses can make a significant difference. Not only do these classes strengthen college applications, but they also provide foundational knowledge that will help in rigorous STEM coursework at the university level. Here’s a guide to the AP classes that best prepare you for STEM majors.
1. AP Calculus AB & AP Calculus BC
Essential for: Engineering, physics, computer science, mathematics, and economics majors.
Why take it? Provides a deep understanding of calculus concepts, which are fundamental in many STEM fields. AP Calculus BC covers additional topics, making it a preferred choice for students aiming for higher-level math in college.
2. AP Physics (1, 2, C: Mechanics & Electricity/Magnetism)
Essential for: Engineering, physics, and astronomy majors.
Why take it? These courses introduce core physics principles, experimental methods, and problem-solving techniques. AP Physics C, which involves calculus, is particularly recommended for those pursuing engineering or physics.
3. AP Chemistry
Essential for: Chemistry, biology, chemical engineering, and medical-related fields.
Why take it? AP Chemistry builds a strong foundation in chemical reactions, thermodynamics, and molecular structures, all of which are crucial for science and health-related careers.
4. AP Biology
Essential for: Pre-med, biology, environmental science, and biochemistry majors.
Why take it? Covers in-depth topics like genetics, evolution, and cellular biology, preparing students for advanced biology coursework in college.
5. AP Computer Science A & AP Computer Science Principles
Essential for: Computer science, software engineering, data science, and cybersecurity majors.
Why take it? AP Computer Science A focuses on Java programming, while AP Computer Science Principles offers a broader view of computing concepts, problem-solving, and real-world applications.
6. AP Statistics
Essential for: Data science, business analytics, economics, and research-oriented STEM majors.
Why take it? Introduces statistical reasoning, data analysis, and probability concepts, which are widely applicable in many fields.
7. AP Environmental Science
Essential for: Environmental science, sustainability, and natural resource management majors.
Why take it? Covers ecological principles, environmental policies, and scientific methodologies, helping students understand and address environmental issues.
8. AP Psychology (Honorable Mention)
Essential for: Neuroscience, cognitive science, and pre-med students.
Why take it? Provides insight into human behavior, cognition, and neurological processes, which can be beneficial for students in medical and research fields.
How to Choose the Right AP Classes for Your STEM Path
Consider your intended major and the course prerequisites.
Balance your workload to avoid overwhelming yourself with too many rigorous courses at once.
Engage in hands-on learning, such as labs and research projects, to reinforce what you learn in AP classes.
Seek guidance from teachers, counselors, or tutoring services like SiSTEM Tutoring Agency to ensure you’re making the best choices for your academic and career goals.
© 2025 — SiSTEM
Bio
Hi! My name is Pearl and I am the founder and CEO of SiSTEM. Looking forward to working with you! :)
Subject of Expertise
Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II, Algebraic Reasoning, Anatomy , AP English Language and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, AP Physics, AP Precalculus , Biology, Calculus, Chemistry , College Algebra, College Statistics, Essay Writing, Geometry, High School Math, Microbiology, Physics, Physiology, Pre-Calculus
Occupation
Founder of SiSTEM
Bio
Hello y'all. I am a one of the Sistem Tutoring tutors. I love tutoring, specifically middle school to college level Biology, Chemistry, and 9th grade Algebra. I've been tutoring since 2018 whenever I have some time between my school projects. At the moment I am in medical school at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley so that I can be a doctor in about 2 years. Before this, I graduated with my bachelor's in Public Relations from the University of Texas at Austin. This year I have more time than normal, so I am taking advantage to have fun and tutor more students! I hope to see y'all soon in my class, and if you need me to tutor you in Spanish I can tutor all my subjects in Spanish as well.
Subject of Expertise
Algebra, Biology, ESL, Chemistry , Spanish
Occupation
Medical Student
Bio
I am a trained Musician, Martial Artist, and STEM Educator. I have a bachelor's degree in:
- Major: Music Performance
- Concentration: Education
- Minor: STEM
- Concentration: Calculus and Physics
With my diverse upbringing, I try to create at least 3 different ways of teaching the same topic; Intuitvely, Analytically, and/or Visually. If a student still does not understand the material, I dissect their preferred learning style and build the lesson on the student's foundation. This can take from minutes to entire sessions (depending on the student) to figure out but, I WILL figure them out nonetheless.
I pride myself on availability. If a student needs to ask a simple question, I prefer to have them (or their guardian) text and/or email me directly as to increase efficiency and ease for everyone.
I look forward to helping you!
Subject of Expertise
Calculus, C++, Physics, Algebra, College Algebra, LaTeX, IB Algebra, ASL
Occupation
Musician and STEM Educator
Challenge
Pressure from parents to go to a 4-year college but wanted an alternative path
Solution
Worked through his custom Guided Roadmap Plan, career exploration activities, 1:1 sessions with his Roadmap Coach, and resume support
Results
Applied to 3 trade programs and was accepted into 1 with full scholarship
Challenge
Balancing academics with training while preparing to play soccer in college
Solution
Worked through her custom Free Roadmap Plan, received weekly tutoring in her core subjects, and received specific college admissions coaching
Results
In one semester, she improved GPA from 2.95 to 3.1, completed NCAA core requirements, and connected with 3 D1 recruiters
Challenge
Parents moved schools and felt like she needed productive, structured summer activities
Solution
Jada and her parents, worked through her custom Free Roadmap plan that consisted of STEM enrichment activities and events in their city
Results
Completed 3 summer STEM projects and made friends at her new middle school
Challenge
Wants to attend college in the U.S. but is unfamiliar with the U.S. application system and deadlines
Solution
Worked through her custom Guided Roadmap Plan for U.S. admissions; received essay support and weekly check-ins with her Roadmap Coach
Results
Applied to 12 U.S. schools and got accepted into 6
Challenge
Managing two different education plans and learning styles without any knowledge of school curriculums
Solution
Both students received a custom Guided Roadmap Plan, weekly parent coaching calls with their Roadmap Coach and personalized tutor matching for both students
Results
Improved focus for both students, better grades for the 9th grader, and reduced stress for both parents
Challenge
Wanted structure for summer, school-year, and extracurriculars for her 6th grader
Solution
Worked through a custom Guided Roadmap Plan for the full academic year, and received bootcamp recommendations from SiSTEM
Results
Her daughter started SAT prep early and joined her school's robotics team
Challenge
Inconsistent academic support due to school changes
Solution
Received a custom Free Roadmap Plan, enrolled in weekly 1:1 online tutoring, and parents received priority access to mini-course on "How military families can support their students"
Results
Stable grades despite transitions, maintained confidence and routine working through his Free Roadmap Plan