Advanced studies at Notre Dame are designed to promote critical thinking, independence, and intellectual curiosity while supporting students in a structured, faith-centered learning environment.

Honors & Advanced Placement (AP)

Honors and AP courses are available to students who demonstrate strong academic readiness and a desire for greater challenge.

• Honors courses offer increased depth, pace, and analytical expectations while providing continued teacher support.

• Advanced Placement (AP) courses provide nationally recognized academic rigor and prepare students for AP examinations, with the opportunity to earn college credit based on exam performance and individual college policies.

Dual Enrollment (DE)

Dual Enrollment courses allow students to earn transferable college credit while still in high school. At Notre Dame, DE courses are:

• Taught on campus by qualified Notre Dame faculty

• Approved by Hartnell College and Monterey Peninsula College

• Designed to meet both high school graduation requirements and college-level expectations

Dual Enrollment offers students the opportunity to experience college-level coursework within the supportive structure of a high school environment, helping them build confidence, independence, and academic readiness.

Personalized Pathways & Support

Not all students follow the same academic path. Notre Dame’s counselors work closely with students and families to design individualized course plans that may include Honors, AP, and/or Dual Enrollment coursework as appropriate. This personalized approach ensures students are both challenged and supported as they prepare for college and future careers.

Preparing Students for College-Level Success

Advanced Studies at Notre Dame emphasize more than academic rigor—they help students develop essential skills such as time management, problem-solving, effective communication, and self-advocacy. These experiences prepare students not only to succeed in college classrooms, but to thrive in increasingly complex academic and professional environments.