Academics Overview
Not what to think. How to think.
Our blend of contemporary and traditional education allows students to think creatively, critically, and without limits.
We know our students learn best when they are engaged, so our teaching is geared toward active learning, critical thinking, and collaboration. Every department at Sandia Prep offers advanced classes (all upper school courses are honors-level), as well as the chance to take multiple classes in the same discipline in one year. We are passionate about seeing all of our students succeed.
A Sandia Prep education positions our students well for college admission. Each year, 100% of our seniors are accepted into a four-year college or university. Most importantly, Prep graduates are well prepared for the challenges of college work and beyond.
Innovative Advanced Courses
We offer students opportunities to pursue their academic interests in depth, either in elective courses in the various disciplines, in our independent study program, or in special academic programs. We are continually expanding our course offerings in response to students’ interests and needs. Our unique array of rigorous, honors-level, and dual-credit courses challenges and motivates.
Click here to view our 2025 - 2026 curriculum guide
A Sample of Sandia Prep Courses
Keeping teaching and learning fresh, engaging, and relevant is a driving force behind Sandia Prep’s approach to education. And because there’s no one-size-fits-all teaching style or prescribed curriculum, Prep’s beloved faculty members practice a wide variety of techniques.
Advanced Digital Film
American Studies (History/English)
Architectural Studies
Astrophysics & Cosmology
Curtain! The Production Experience
Entrepreneurial Studies
Heritage Spanish Program
Industrial Design
Intensive Writing
Mechatronics 1 & 2
Media Production
Molecular Biology
Physics 2
Psychology
Spanish 5
Dual Credit Courses
We offer dual credit classes to allow our students to earn college credit even while in high school. These credits are free and will be accepted by almost any state university. This gives our students an opportunity to enter the world of college expectations and acclimate under the guidance of a supportive teacher they know. Teachers of dual credit classes are required to have advanced degrees in the discipline they teach and experience with college-level teaching.
With approval, students may take specific dual credit courses at the University of New Mexico (UNM) or Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) through our dual enrollment program. Students taking non-dual credit courses at any college or university must get the approval of the Assistant Head of School for the Upper School prior to their application to that college or university.

