Graduation Pathways 

Every student’s path to graduation can look a little different, and the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) provides flexible options to help students choose the route that best matches their goals, interests, and future plans. Students can pursue a pathway that prepares them to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, a pathway that leads to university, or a combination of both. No matter which option students select, schools receive the same accountability credit. Below is an overview of the pathways available and some key updates you can expect moving forward.


Pathway 1: TOPS University Diploma – Preparing for University Success

The TOPS University pathway is the traditional university-prep route. Students who complete this path graduate with a TOPS University Diploma and are academically prepared to enter a four-year university. In addition to rigorous coursework, the LDOE provides multiple opportunities for high school students to earn college credit, helping them save time and money while increasing their chances of completing a degree. 


These opportunities include:


These programs allow students to challenge themselves academically while getting a head start on university aligned work.


Pathway 2: Jump Start TOPS Tech Career Diploma – Preparing for the Louisiana Workforce

The Jump Start pathway emphasizes career and technical education (CTE) and requires students to earn an industry-based credential as part of their graduation requirements. Since its launch in 2014, Jump Start has expanded significantly. According to the LDOE:

This pathway equips students with real-world skills and certifications that make them immediately employable in high-demand fields across Louisiana, prepares them for community college, or vocational training.