You must take 2 elective courses that are considered academic — meaning they are rigorous, college-preparatory classes in the listed subjects.

These electives are in addition to core subject requirements (like English, Math, etc.).

For example, acceptable electives could include:

Computer Science: AP Computer Science

Fine Art: Art History

Foreign Language: Spanish III Honors 

Social Science: Modern and World History, Psychology (PSY 101), Sociology (SOC 101)

Mathematics: A mathematics course after Algebra II

Laboratory Science: Anatomy

Physical Education: Physical Education 2

Humanities: Philosophy

Three laboratory sciences are required. Examples of laboratory sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Marine Science and Physics. Laboratory science courses have a lab curriculum embedded in the course. 

Two to three courses in the same Foreign Language. For instance: Spanish I, Spanish II and Spanish III

The following courses satisfy the computer science requirement for a South Carolina High School Diploma:

Fundamentals of Computing 

Fundamentals of Web Page Design

Game Design and Development

PLTW Computer Science Essentials

PLTW Principles of Engineering

PLTW Cybersecurity

Foundations in Animation

The Employability Credential is designed for students with disabilities for whom the IEP team determines that mastery of a career-based educational program (including academics, independent work experience, daily living skills, and self determination skill competencies) is the most appropriate way for a student to demonstrate his or her skills and provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE). 

To attain the Employability Credential, the student must meet the graduation requirements of one unit of physical education/health (or equivalent) and one unit of technology course, adhere to the local attendance policy, and earn a total of 24 earned units that include the following: 

4 units of English  

4 units of mathematics

2 units of science

2 units of social studies

4 units of employability education

6 units of elective courses

Coursework in the four core areas (English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies) must meet South Carolina College- and Career-Ready Standards. In addition to completing coursework outlined above, to receive an Employability Credential, a student must:

1. Complete a career portfolio that includes a multimedia presentation project.

2. Obtain work readiness assessment results that demonstrate the student is ready  for competitive employment

3. Complete work-based learning/training that totals at least 360 hours, in which: 

• Work-based learning/training is school-based, community-based, and/or paid or unpaid employment; 

• Work-based learning/training is aligned with the student’s  interests, preferences, and postsecondary goals and individual graduation plan

• Paid employment is at a minimum wage or above and in compliance  with the requirements of the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act