The University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) require entering freshmen to complete certain courses in high school. These courses are called the "a-g" courses because of the letter each subject area is assigned: "a" is for History/Social Science, "b" is for English, and so on. To receive "a-g" credit, a high school course must be certified through the UC course approval process.
Here is the list of "a-g", with the number of years required in each subject. UC recommends additional years in some areas as indicated.
a. History/Social Science (2 years)
b. English (4 years)
c. Mathematics (3 years, UC recommends 4)
d. Laboratory Science (2 years, UC recommends 3)
e. Language Other than English (2 years, UC recommends 3)
f. Visual/Performing Arts (1 year)
g. College Preparatory Elective (1 year)
Starting with applicants for freshman admission in 2012, UC
requirements will change. See Freshman Admission at the University of California: New Policies Starting 2012.
Resources
“a-g” Guide
University of California Office of the President
This site provides extensive guidance on all topics related to the a-g requirements.
Freshman Admisssion at the University of California: New Policies Starting 2012
UC Office of Admissions and David Stern.
Doorways Gateway
This gateway leads to extensive information about a-g, including high school course lists, information on the course submission process, and the web site where schools can update their a-g course lists.
