Requirements to Graduate From High School
The requirements to graduate from high school vary by state. Requirements are also subject to periodic updating in order to keep up with the increasing demands of college entrance. Graduation eligibility is determined by a minimum number of credits earned by a student in grades 9 to 12. This number can range from 18 to 24. There are, however, some basic requirements of all high school graduates.
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Math
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Generally, a students has to have four math credits. These include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and some advanced math class like Trigonometry or Calculus. For students who do not choose to take advanced math, they can take a simpler math class like Business Math or Statistics in order to meet this requirement.
English
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Students are required to earn four credits in English before they graduate. This includes an English class each year of high school, grades 9 to 12. College-bound students may choose to take advanced English classes and earn college credits.
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Science
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Students are usually required to earn three science credits. These classes include Biology I, Biology II, Chemistry and Physics. Earth and space science as well as physical science can sometimes be taken to meet this requirement, but Biology I and II are required of all students.
Social Science
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Students are required to have four social science credits. These are usually earned by the completion of American History, World History, Geography, Civics or state history. Students in high schools that offer classes like sociology or anthropology can use these classes to help meet this requirement.
Technology
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Students must have at least one credit in computer use, such as data processing, basic computer science, or computer programming. Even if students have taken keyboarding or some other computer class prior to ninth grade, they must take another class in high school to meet this requirement.
Language
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Students have to have two credits in a foreign language. These two credits need to represent two years of study in one foreign language. Sometimes, the second year of study can be used toward college credit.
Electives
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Students can earn up to four credits in courses of their own choosing. These include classes like music/art appreciation, physical education, and career and life skills courses. Driver's and hunter's education can help fulfill this requirement as well.
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