The Alberta government says it is moving forward with a plan to allow high school students to graduate with fewer math, science and humanities courses than previously required. Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides said at a Friday news conference in Calgary that the landscape that today’s graduates are entering into has significantly changed, so the province is changing too. “Students will have more room in their schedules to do classes that support their priorities,” he said at a media conference. “This will mean more focused learning in areas of interest such as skilled trades, agriculture, engineering, law studies or computer science.” Under the new rules, Alberta high school students will still need 100 credits to earn their high school diploma, but there will be more flexibility offered to acquire those credits — 53 credits can be obtained through optional courses, instead of only 44. Grade 10 students will need to complete core learning in English, social studies, math and science as well as mandatory career and life management (CALM) and physical education and wellness courses. For Grade 11 and 12, the province’s objective of broader learning will apply. Students in those grades will need to complete 10 credits in humanities, through English language arts, social studies or a combination of both, five credits in math or science and required credits in physical education, wellness and financial literacy. A financial literary assessment is also being considered as one of the graduation options. Nicolaides said the changes with the requirements would also mean more planning for junior high school students. “More choice, of course, must also come with good planning. Planning for that will start in junior high,” he said. “Better job education through Grades 7 to 9 will help students make smart choices about their classes and future goals. Updated Grade 10 CALM will build on those building blocks, helping ensure those students explore job opportunities, understand pathways available to them and create smart money management skills.” The province says the freedom of choice will allow students to explore areas that could focus their future studies. “Students can explore areas such as skilled trades, finance, agriculture, engineering and legal studies. Students who want to pursue more core academic courses, including math, sciences, English or social studies, will continue to have that option,” officials said in a release. The requirements will apply to Grade 10 students beginning in fall 2028, Grade 11 students in fall 2029 and all senior high school grades by fall 2030. Alberta Education is also currently conducting engagement on new math 10 and social studies 10, 20 and 30 curriculums.
