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New Castle County Vo-Tech
Learning » Graduation Requirements

Graduation Requirements

Under the auspices of the State Board of Education, the New Castle County Vocational Technical School District issues a high school diploma or a certificate of performance. In addition, the NCCVTSD awards a career program certificate to students meeting established criteria. All programs of study meet or exceed state-mandated graduation requirements. A diploma is issued to students who earn the minimum course credits as required by the NCCVT Board of Education.

Credit Requirements for Graduation:

  • 10 Career Program of Study (including exploratory and related/elective vocational courses)
  • 4 English
  • 4 Mathematics (1 must be earned in the senior year; 1 must be in Integrated Mathematics III)
  • 3 Science (1 must be in Biology)
  • 3 Social Studies (1 must be in U.S. History)
  • 1 Physical Education
  • 0.5 Health
  • 2 World Language

Every senior must earn a minimum of five (5) credits in the senior year. Dual enrollment course credits will be eligible to meet the five (5) credit requirement.

Students may fulfill the two (2) credit World Language requirement by either:

  • Earning a minimum of two (2) World Language credits in the same language, or
  • Demonstrating Novice-High or higher proficiency on a nationally recognized assessment of language proficiency (excluding English), in oral or signed expressive and receptive communication, reading, and writing. Proficiency levels must align with those identified by the American Council for the Teaching of Foreign Languages or as approved by the Delaware Department of Education.

In the case of students transferring into the NCCVT district, all academic and vocational course credits meeting the requirements of the Delaware Administrative Code will be accepted.

Options for Awarding Credit Toward High School Graduation

The NCCVTSD awards credit toward high school graduation for the following options, provided the activities incorporate any applicable state/common core content standards:

  • Courses taken at or through an accredited community college, or a two- or four-year college.
  • Voluntary community service as defined in 14 Del.C. §§ 8901A and 8902A.
  • Supervised work experience in school or the community that meets the educational objectives or special career interest of the student.
  • Independent study.
  • Distance learning courses, delivered in real time, online, or by video.
  • High school courses taken while in middle school under an articulation agreement between the district’s middle and high schools. These credits shall also transfer to other districts or charter schools.
  • Course credit transferred from another high school.
  • Course credit earned through summer or evening school, military service, or the James H. Groves Adult High School.
  • Tutoring programs taught by a certified teacher in the subject area.
  • Course credit awarded by other state agencies providing education services. A description of the program, student grades, and either clock hours or demonstrated competency must be submitted for approval.
  • Courses taught by certified teachers where credit is awarded upon mastery of course competencies.