Requirements for Graduation

ACS Athens requires twenty-six (26) Carnegie Units to be earned over a minimum of eight semesters for the Academy Diploma.  These will include the following (see Program of Studies for relevant graduation requirements):

1. Four English credits 

Classes are taken each semester in grades 9-12. The following courses or their equivalents must be taken:

• English 9: Literature or Language and Literature (Regular or Honors)

• English 10: Literature or Language and Literature (Regular or Honors)

• Plus two full years of English classes in grades 11-12.

2. Greek Ministry regulations

All students are required to take either Greek language (A), as a first language, or (B) as a modern language for each of their high school years.

Modern Language Requirements for the American Diploma:  All students must have three years of modern language, two years of which must be in the same language. 

3. Three years of Mathematics including Geometry with Algebraic Topics 

It is recommended that students take four years of Mathematics.

4.  Three years of Science

It is recommended that students take four years of Science. 

5.  One semester of Health

Preferably in grade 10

6.  Two semesters of Computer Technology

• Course offerings include Computer Science 1 and 2, STEAM 1 and 2, or IB Computer Science.

7.  Four Social Studies credits including one credit of American Studies/US History

Classes are taken in grades 9-12, including:

• Grade 9: European History  (Regular or Honors)

• Grade 10: American Studies/ US History (Regular or Honors)

• Plus two full years of Social Studies classes in grades 11-12.

8.  Two semesters of Visual and Performing Arts

Students may elect courses from the Visual Arts and Performing Arts.

9.  Three semesters of Physical Education.  

All 9th graders must take Physical Education.  A third semester must be taken for graduation, preferably in grade 10.

10. The remainder of the credits are to be earned through the various elective courses offered in grades 9-12.

Course Selection: 

Students must elect eight courses per semester, including Academic Advisory in grades 9 and 10 and then Junior and Senior Advisory in grades 11 and 12.  Students in grade 11 who are not enrolled in the IB Diploma Program or at least two IB certificates must enroll in eight classes including Junior Advisory.  Students in grade 12 not enrolled in the IB Diploma program or at least two IB certificate courses must enroll in eight classes including first semester Senior Advisory.  Exception to this in extraordinary circumstances must meet with the principal’s approval.