Alabama High School Diploma
How Many Credits to Graduate High School in Alabama? Credit requirements vary in different states, but it typically includes completing coursework in English, Maths, Science, Physical Education, Health Education, Social Studies, Career and Technical Education and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education and other Elective courses.
Most high schools in the United States require students to earn a total of between 22 and 26 credits to graduate. In Alabama, The State Board of Education (Alabama State Department of Education) is responsible for setting the minimum credit requirements, and local districts may set additional requirements which may require more credits in certain subjects, such as additional math or science credits.
Understanding the credit requirements for graduation is crucial for students to plan their coursework effectively and stay on track to graduate on time. It’s always advisable for students to work with their counselors to choose classes that meet graduation requirements and align with their academic and career goals.
This guide on high school credits will enable school students to understand their graduation requirements and stay on track toward meeting their credit requirements, especially if the district has additional requirements.
Credits to Graduate High School in Alabama
The minimum credit requirement needed to graduate high school in Alabama is 24 credits, including 4 credits in English, 4 credits in math, 4 credits in science, 4 credits in social studies, 1 credit in physical education, 0.5 credit in health education, 1 credit in career preparedness, 3 credits of either a foreign language or career or technical education or arts education.
Students must also take 2.5 credits of electives to complete the 24 minimum credit requirement. Finally, to be eligible to graduate, students must complete one online/technology-enhanced course or experience unless exceptions have been approved through Individualized Education Plans.
Subject | Credits |
English | 4 |
Maths | 4 |
Science | 4 |
Social Studies | 4 |
Physical Education | 1 |
Career Preparedness | 1 |
Health Education | 0.5 |
Career and Technical Education and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education | 3 |
Electives | 2.5 |
Total: | 24 Credits |
Alabama High School Graduation Requirements
Math Requirements
Geometry or its equivalent/substitute
Algebra II w/Trigonometry or Algebra II, or its equivalent/substitute
Mathematics-credit eligible options may include: Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/SDE-approved courses.
English Language Arts Requirements
English 10
English 11
English 12
English Language Arts-credit eligible options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/SDE-approved courses
Alabama Course of Study: Mathematics or mathematics-credit eligible courses from Career and Technical
Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/SDE-approved courses.
Science Requirements
A physical science (Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science)
Science-credit eligible options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary
courses/SDE-approved courses.
Alabama Course of Study: Science or science-credit eligible courses from Career and Technical Education/Advanced
Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/SDE-approved courses.
Social Studies Requirements
United States History I
United States History II
United States Government
Economics
Social Studies-credit eligible options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary
courses/SDE-approved courses.
Physical Education Requirements
Career Preparedness Requirements
Computer Applications
Financial Literacy
The Alabama High School Graduation requirements provide the opportunity for students to pursue multiple pathways to earn a diploma. Students will have options to pursue areas of interest through the expansion of elective credits.
A high school diploma is a standard requirement for most jobs — and for higher education opportunities. Graduating high school is a significant accomplishment, and understanding the credit requirements is essential for students to reach that goal.
By familiarizing yourself with the requirements, planning your coursework, and staying on track, you can ensure a successful high school experience and a smooth transition to your next steps, whether that be college or entering the workforce.
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