More gym, less humanities: Alberta overhauls high school graduation requirements

Alberta Education has announced significant changes to high school graduation requirements in the province. Starting with students entering high school in 2028, the new system will require only 47 core credits, down from the current 56. This reduction means students will no longer be required to complete senior/more advanced courses in math, science, or humanities to earn their diploma.

English and social studies will still be mandatory, but students will only need to take one senior/30-level course in either subject. The focus will shift to practical skills, with mandatory courses in physical education, wellness, and financial literacy now spanning all three years of high school. Grade 10 students will continue to take core courses in English, social studies, math, and science, but senior-level math and science classes will remain non-compulsory.

The changes will be implemented over three school years, beginning with Grade 10 students in the 2028-29 school year, followed by Grade 11 students in 2029, and all senior high school grades in 2030. Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides emphasized that these changes aim to prepare students for life after graduation by allowing them to focus on developing hands-on skills and interests.

While the government is reducing core subject requirements, it is enhancing mandatory courses in physical education, wellness, and financial literacy to provide students with more choice and better prepare them for further education or job opportunities.