20 Best Electives to Take in High School (2025 Guide)

High school is more than just core classes. It is a chance to explore your passions, build valuable skills, and prepare for college, careers, and beyond. Choosing the right courses can make a huge difference. That is where the Best Electives to Take in High School come in.

The best electives to take in high school allow students to go beyond the basics and dive into subjects like computer science, public speaking, graphic design, psychology, and more. These electives help you discover your strengths, boost your college applications, and gain real-world skills.

Whether you are aiming for a competitive university or want to explore your future career path early, the best electives to take in high school provide the flexibility and opportunity to stand out. This guide explains why electives matter and reveals the 20 Best Electives to Take in High School to help you build a well-rounded, future-ready experience.

Best Electives to Take in High School

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Electives Matter
• 20 Best Electives to Take in High School for 2025
• How to Choose the Right Electives
• Student Reviews & Recommended High School Electives
• Conclusion

Why Electives Matter

The best electives to take in high school are more than just optional classes. They are your opportunity to customize your education and explore what truly interests you. Taking the best electives to take in high school can shape your future in powerful ways. They offer benefits like :

• Discovering Passions : The best electives to take in high school allow you to explore fields like coding, art, or psychology and uncover what genuinely excites you.

• Building Practical Skills : Whether it is financial literacy, public speaking, or data analysis, the best electives to take in high school help you build real-world skills that matter.

• Boosting College Applications : Colleges want to see depth and versatility. Choosing the best electives to take in high school in areas like STEM, the arts, or leadership shows initiative and intellectual curiosity.

• Preparing for Careers : The best electives to take in high school can give you a head start in high-demand fields such as technology, healthcare, business, or media.

• Fostering Creativity and Balance : By choosing the best electives to take in high school, you develop critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. These are essential skills for success in both college and life.

Choosing the best electives to take in high school is one of the smartest ways to take control of your education, explore your interests, and prepare for the future. Whether you want to stand out on college applications, gain hands-on skills, or simply discover what excites you, the best electives to take in high school can open doors and shape your path forward. Make the most of your high school years by selecting electives that align with your goals and passions.

20 Best Electives to Take in High School for 2025

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

One of the best electives to take in high school, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning dives into the future of technology. This course, a leader among the best electives to take in high school, equips students with skills to build intelligent systems for industries like healthcare, finance, and transportation. Projects like creating chatbots or predictive models provide hands-on experience, making it a top choice for tech-savvy learners in 2025.

• Why Take It? Prepares you for cutting-edge careers in AI engineering, data science, and tech innovation, aligning with 2025 tech trends.
• What You’ll Learn: Python programming, neural networks, data analysis, and AI ethics.
• Future Impact: Builds a strong foundation for college STEM programs and high-demand tech roles, impressing college admissions.

Explore AI trends at xAI.

2. Computer Science and Programming

Among the best electives to take in high school, Computer Science and Programming teaches coding skills essential for careers in software development, cybersecurity, and gaming. This elective, a cornerstone of the best electives to take in high school, lets you create apps, websites, and games, fostering innovation and problem-solving for 2025’s tech-driven world.

• Why Take It? Coding is a universal skill driving innovation across industries.
• What You’ll Learn: Programming languages (Python, JavaScript, C++), web/app development, and computational thinking.
• Future Impact: Enhances college applications with technical expertise and prepares you for lucrative tech careers.

3. Foreign Language

Foreign Language is one of the best electives to take in high school for students aiming for global careers. Learning languages like Spanish, Mandarin, or Arabic enhances cognitive skills and cultural fluency, making it a standout among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s interconnected world.

• Why Take It? Bilingualism is highly valued in diplomacy, business, and travel industries.
• What You’ll Learn: Vocabulary, grammar, cultural insights, and conversational proficiency.
• Future Impact: Strengthens college applications and opens doors to international career opportunities.

4. Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation

A top pick among the best electives to take in high school, Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation fosters a startup mindset. This course, a key choice among the best electives to take in high school, teaches you to create and pitch business ideas, preparing you for entrepreneurial success in 2025.

• Why Take It? Develops leadership and business skills for launching ventures or leading teams.
• What You’ll Learn: Business planning, marketing strategies, financial literacy, and pitching techniques.
• Future Impact: Prepares you for business majors and entrepreneurial careers with practical skills.

5. Digital Arts and Multimedia Design

Digital Arts and Multimedia Design ranks among the best electives to take in high school for creative students. Master digital tools for graphic design, animation, and video production, making this a top choice among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s creative industries.

• Why Take It? Creative industries demand skills in digital design and visual storytelling.
• What You’ll Learn: Adobe Creative Suite, 3D modeling, animation, and storytelling techniques.
• Future Impact: Builds a portfolio for careers in media, gaming, or design, showcasing creativity to colleges.

6. Public Speaking and Debate

Public Speaking and Debate is one of the best electives to take in high school for building communication skills. Essential for leadership roles, this course helps you excel in any field, securing its place among the best electives to take in high school for 2025.

• Why Take It? Strong communication is critical for careers in law, politics, and business.
• What You’ll Learn: Persuasive speaking, argumentation, research, and confidence under pressure.
• Future Impact: Boosts employability in collaborative and leadership roles, impressing college admissions.

7. Robotics

Robotics, one of the best electives to take in high school, blends engineering and coding for hands-on innovation. Build and program robots, making this a key choice among the best electives to take in high school for STEM enthusiasts in 2025.

• Why Take It? Prepares you for high-demand STEM careers in engineering and automation.
• What You’ll Learn: Robot design, coding for automation, and collaborative tech projects.
• Future Impact: Aligns with careers in engineering, manufacturing, and autonomous systems.

8. Biotechnology

Biotechnology is among the best electives to take in high school for students passionate about healthcare and science. Explore genetic engineering and medical advancements, making it a top choice among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s biotech boom.

• Why Take It? Biotech is revolutionizing healthcare, agriculture, and environmental solutions.
• What You’ll Learn: Genetic engineering, lab techniques, and applications in medicine or food science.
• Future Impact: Prepares you for careers in healthcare, research, or bioengineering.

9. Environmental Science

Environmental Science, one of the best electives to take in high school, tackles global challenges like climate change. Learn sustainable solutions, making this a critical choice among the best electives to take in high school for eco-conscious students in 2025.

• Why Take It? Addresses pressing issues like sustainability and renewable energy.
• What You’ll Learn: Environmental analysis, renewable energy systems, and sustainable practices.
• Future Impact: Leads to careers in conservation, environmental policy, or green technology.

10. Psychology and Behavioral Science

Psychology and Behavioral Science is one of the best electives to take in high school for understanding human behavior. Ideal for healthcare or education careers, it’s a standout among the best electives to take in high school for 2025.

• Why Take It? Key for careers in healthcare, marketing, or education.
• What You’ll Learn: Cognitive psychology, behavioral analysis, and research methodologies.
• Future Impact: Prepares you for psychology, counseling, or social work careers.

11. Financial Literacy and Personal Finance

Financial Literacy and Personal Finance, one of the best electives to take in high school, teaches essential money management skills. From budgeting to investing, this course is crucial among the best electives to take in high school for life skills in 2025.

• Why Take It? Managing money is a vital skill for personal and professional success.
• What You’ll Learn: Budgeting, investing, taxes, credit management, and financial planning.
• Future Impact: Equips you for financial independence and complements business-related fields.

12. Creative Writing and Digital Storytelling

Creative Writing and Digital Storytelling ranks among the best electives to take in high school for aspiring writers. Build a portfolio for media careers, making it a top pick among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s content-driven world.

• Why Take It? Writing skills are versatile for careers in media, marketing, and publishing.
• What You’ll Learn: Narrative techniques, blogging, scriptwriting, and digital content creation.
• Future Impact: Builds a portfolio for journalism, publishing, or social media careers.

13. Health, Wellness, and Sports Science

Health, Wellness, and Sports Science is one of the best electives to take in high school for promoting well-being and exploring healthcare careers. Its focus on fitness and nutrition makes it a key choice among the best electives to take in high school for 2025.

• Why Take It? Supports a healthy lifestyle and prepares you for healthcare or fitness careers.
• What You’ll Learn: Nutrition, exercise physiology, mental health, and injury prevention.
• Future Impact: Aligns with growing wellness industries and promotes personal well-being.

14. Music Production and Performing Arts

Music Production and Performing Arts, among the best electives to take in high school, fosters creativity and discipline. Learn digital music tools and performance skills, securing its place among the best electives to take in high school for 2025.

• Why Take It? Music and theater open creative career paths in entertainment and education.
• What You’ll Learn: Music production software, performance techniques, and stagecraft.
• Future Impact: Leads to careers in entertainment, education, or arts management.

15. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity, one of the best electives to take in high school, addresses the growing need for digital security. Learn to protect systems from threats, making this a critical choice among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s tech landscape.

• Why Take It? Rising digital threats create high demand for cybersecurity experts.
• What You’ll Learn: Ethical hacking, network security, and risk assessment techniques.
• Future Impact: Prepares you for high-demand roles in tech and cybersecurity fields.

16. Data Science and Statistics

Data Science and Statistics is among the best electives to take in high school for data-driven careers. Master tools like Python and R, solidifying its place among the best electives to take in high school for analytical minds in 2025.

• Why Take It? Data drives decision-making in business, science, and technology.
• What You’ll Learn: Statistical analysis, data visualization, and tools like R or Python.
• Future Impact: Opens doors to careers in analytics, research, or AI development.

17. Film and Video Production

Film and Video Production, one of the best electives to take in high school, taps into the booming media industry. Learn filmmaking and editing, making it a top choice among the best electives to take in high school for 2025’s creative economy.

• Why Take It? Video content creation is in demand for media, marketing, and entertainment.
• What You’ll Learn: Filmmaking, editing software, and storytelling through video.
• Future Impact: Prepares you for careers in film, advertising, or content creation.

18. Sociology

Sociology, among the best electives to take in high school, explores how societies function. Ideal for social work or policy careers, it’s a standout among the best electives to take in high school for understanding human dynamics in 2025.

• Why Take It? Prepares you for careers in social work, policy, or advocacy.
• What You’ll Learn: Social structures, cultural dynamics, and research methodologies.
• Future Impact: Supports careers in community development, public service, or sociology research.

19. Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts is one of the best electives to take in high school for food enthusiasts. Learn cooking techniques and food science, making it a delicious choice among the best electives to take in high school for hospitality careers in 2025.

• Why Take It? Opens paths to hospitality, entrepreneurship, or culinary careers.
• What You’ll Learn: Culinary skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.
• Future Impact: Leads to careers in the food industry or personal enrichment.

20. Leadership and Community Service

Leadership and Community Service, one of the best electives to take in high school, builds leadership through community projects. Its focus on civic engagement makes it a top pick among the best electives to take in high school for 2025.

• Why Take It? Develops leadership skills through impactful community initiatives.
• What You’ll Learn: Team management, project planning, and civic engagement strategies.
• Future Impact: Enhances college applications and prepares you for leadership roles across industries.

How to Choose the Right Electives

Choosing the best electives to take in high school depends on your goals, interests, and future plans. Here are key tips to help you make the right choices :

• Align with interests : The best electives to take in high school are the ones that genuinely excite you. When you enjoy a subject, you are more likely to stay motivated and perform well.

• Consider career goals : Think about what you want to study in college or pursue as a profession. The best electives to take in high school can give you early exposure to fields like engineering, business, healthcare, or the arts.

• Balance your schedule : A strong high school experience includes a mix of creativity, academics, and practical skills. The best electives to take in high school help you build a well-rounded schedule that challenges and inspires you.

• Explore new fields : Sometimes the best electives to take in high school are the ones you have never tried before. Take a chance on a class in photography, coding, journalism, or psychology. You might discover a new passion.

• Check college requirements : Some colleges prefer or require certain electives. The best electives to take in high school, such as foreign languages or advanced STEM courses, can strengthen your applications and expand your future opportunities.

In the end, the best electives to take in high school are the ones that match your interests, challenge you to grow, and help you take meaningful steps toward your college and career goals. Choose wisely, and you will set yourself up for long-term success.

Best Electives to Take in High School

Student Reviews & Recommended High School Electives

"In the Inspirit AI Scholars Program, I built a chatbot using Python that could answer questions about my favorite books. The mentors broke down complex concepts like natural language processing into simple steps, and we had weekly check-ins to debug code together. It was my first time coding, and now I’m hooked on creating AI projects!"

— Maya S., Grade 7

Computer Science & Coding

Take a computer science elective to build on skills like those Maya used in her chatbot project. Learn Python, Java, or AI basics to create your own apps or algorithms. These courses sharpen problem-solving and are a top choice for tech-focused college programs.

"The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program guided me through a biology project on plant growth under different light conditions. My mentor, a PhD student, helped me design experiments and analyze data using spreadsheets. Winning my school’s science fair was amazing, and I learned how to present research confidently!"

— Ethan R., Grade 8

Advanced Science Electives (e.g., AP Biology or Environmental Science)

Follow Ethan’s lead with advanced science electives like AP Biology or Environmental Science. These courses dive into research methods and data analysis, perfect for science fair projects and preparing for STEM majors in college.

"Through Girls Who Code – Code at Home, I created a Python-based game where players solve math puzzles to advance. The free online lessons were interactive, and I loved sharing my game with friends. It taught me how to think logically and handle errors in code!"

— Aisha K., Grade 6

Digital Design & Game Development

Explore electives in digital design or game development to create projects like Aisha’s game. Learn tools like Unity or Scratch to design interactive apps, blending creativity and coding skills that stand out in tech portfolios.

"FIRST LEGO League was a blast! Our team programmed a LEGO robot to navigate a maze and complete tasks like sorting objects. We spent weeks testing code and strategies, and competing against other teams taught me teamwork and problem-solving under pressure."

— Liam T., Grade 7

Robotics & Engineering

Enroll in a robotics or engineering elective to gain hands-on experience like Liam’s. These courses teach you to design, build, and program robots, fostering teamwork and technical skills valued in engineering fields.

Public Speaking & Debate

Complement your STEM skills with a public speaking or debate elective. Presenting projects confidently, like these students did, is crucial for college interviews, science fairs, and future careers.

Download our College Admissions Report and learn how 400+ Inspirit AI Scholars got accepted to Ivy League Schools in the past 2 years!

Conclusion

Electives are your chance to shape your high school journey and prepare for a dynamic future. The best electives to take in high school help you develop skills that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re coding AI, mastering a language, or creating digital art, the best electives to take in high school provide opportunities to explore your passions and build expertise. When choosing the best electives to take in high school, make sure to explore your options fully, talk to your school counselor, and pick courses that inspire you to grow both academically and personally.

To make the most of your high school years, selecting the best electives to take in high school is essential for college preparation and career readiness. For more tips on college prep and career planning, check out resources like xAI’s blog for insights on AI and tech trends shaping the future.

About Inspirit AI

AI Scholars Live Online is a 10-session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.