Department of Education
Dr. Tim Webb, Commissioner
Last Update:
12/12/2008
Tennessee Diploma Project: Graduation Requirements
In addition to better aligning our academic standards with national standards, Tennessee is also implementing more rigorous graduation requirements. These changes will challenge our students and better prepare them for college and the workforce.
| Current Basic High School Requirements | Requirements for Students Beginning High School in Fall 2009 |
|---|---|
| TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 20 | TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 22 |
| MATH: 3 Credits Including either Geometry or Algebra II |
MATH: 4 Credits Including Algebra I, II, Geometry and a fourth higher level math course |
| SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including one physical science course and Biology |
SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and a third lab course |
| ENGLISH: 4 Credits | ENGLISH: 4 Credits |
| SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits | SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits |
| WELLNESS: 1 Credit | PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND WELLNESS: 1.5 Credits |
| PERSONAL FINANCE: .5 Credits | |
| ELECTIVE: 6 Credits | FOREIGN LANGUAGE: 2 Credits FINE ARTS: 1 Credit May be waived for students not going to a University to expand and enhance the elective focus |
| ELECTIVE FOCUS: 3 Credits Math and Science, Career and Technical Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) |
