Graduation Requirements

McDowell County Requirements for a High School Diploma

( 2019-2020 9th grade and before)

4 Units of English:

  • English I

  • English II

  • English III

  • English IV

4 Units of Math:

  • Math I

  • Math II

  • Math III

  • 4th Math Course to be aligned with the student’s post high school plans.

4 Units of Social Studies:

  • World History

  • American History I

  • American History II

  • Civics & Economics




3 Units of Science:

  • Earth & Environmental Science

  • Biology

  • A Physical Science (Physical Science, Chemistry, or Physics)

1 Unit of Health and Physical Education

1 Personal Finance

11 Units of Electives or Other Requirements: Student's MTCC pathway

*Second Language is not required for graduation. However, it is required to meet minimum application requirements for the UNC College System.


McDowell County Requirements for a High School Diploma

( 2020-2021 9th grade and after )

4 Units of English:

  • English I

  • English II

  • English III

  • English IV

4 Units of Math:

  • Math I

  • Math II

  • Math III

  • 4th Math Course to be aligned with the student’s post high school plans.

4 Units of Social Studies:

  • World History

  • American History

  • Economics and Personal Finance

  • Civic Literacy




3 Units of Science:

  • Earth & Environmental Science

  • Biology

  • Physical Science (Physical Science, Chemistry, or Physics)

1 Unit of Health and Physical Education


12 Units of Electives or Other Requirements: Student's MTCC pathway

*Second Language is not required for graduation. However, it is required to meet minimum application requirements for the UNC College System.


Students at MAI will earn the majority of their elective credits through their MTCC pathway.