CDE Requirements

EC 51225.3 states that all pupils receiving a diploma of graduation from a California high school must have completed all of the following courses, while in grades nine to twelve, inclusive:

• Unless otherwise specified, each course shall have a duration of one school year:
  • Three courses in English
  • Two courses in mathematics, including one year of Algebra I (EC Section 51224.5)
  • Two courses in science, including biological and physical sciences
  • Three courses in social studies, including United States history and geography; world history, culture, and geography; a one-semester course in American government and civics, and a one-semester course in economics
  • One course in visual or performing arts,  foreign language, or commencing with the 2012-13 school year, career technical education. For the purpose of satisfying the minimum course requirement, a course in American Sign Language shall be deemed a course in foreign language
  • Two courses in physical education, unless the pupil has been exempted pursuant to the provisions of EC Section 51241