Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about course registration, graduation requirements, and academic planning at Rochester Public Schools.
How many credits are needed for graduation?
Requirements for High School Graduation
Required Credits
Students must successfully complete a minimum of 24 credits. This chart lists the District #535 requirements (.5 credit equals one class period for one semester).
Credit Requirements for Graduating
Graduating Class of 2027
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| English |
4.0 credits
|
| Math |
3.0 credits
Encompassing algebra, geometry, and statistics/probability sufficient to satisfy the standards. (Including Algebra II or its equivalent) |
| Science |
3.0 credits
|
| Social Studies |
3.0 credits
|
| Economics | 0.5 credit |
| Physical Education | 0.5 credit |
| Health | 0.5 credit |
| Fine Arts | 1.0 credit |
| Electives | 8.5 credits |
| Total Credits | 24.0 |
Credit Requirements for Graduating
Graduating Class of 2028 and beyond
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| English |
4.0 credits
|
| Math |
3.0 credits
Encompassing algebra, geometry, and statistics/probability sufficient to satisfy the standards. (Including Algebra II or its equivalent) |
| Science |
3.0 credits
|
| Social Studies |
3.0 credits
|
| Economics | 0.5 credit |
| Personal Finance | 0.5 credit |
| Physical Education | 0.5 credit |
| Health | 0.5 credit |
| Fine Arts | 1.0 credit |
| Electives | 8.0 credits |
| Total Credits | 24.0 |
School Board policies may change throughout the year. School Board policy updates and changes overrule this handbook. For the most current policy statement, please check School Board Policy 613 in the Superintendent's Office, or at the principal's office.
Credit for Employment with Health Care Providers
consistent with the career and technical pathways program, a student in grade 11 or 12 who is employed by an institutional long-term care or licensed assisted living facility, a home and community-based services and a supports provider, a hospital or health system clinic, or a child care center may earn up to two elective credits each year toward graduation at the discretion of the enrolling school district or charter school.
A student may earn one elective credit for every 350 hours worked, including hours worked during the summer. A student who is employed by an eligible employer must submit an application, in the form or manner required by the school district or charter school, for elective credit to the school district or charter school in order to receive elective credit. The school district or charter school must verify the hours worked with the employer before awarding elective credit. EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective for the 2023-24 school year and later.
How do I get an Honors diploma?
Honors Program
Honors Courses
- Honors courses are open to all students meeting the course prerequisites, if there are any. Honors courses alter the curriculum in terms of depth, rigor, and pace. They promote higher-level thinking skills and provide opportunities for a variety of extended projects. A solid background and a mature work ethic are highly recommended. Successful completion of the honors course is clearly defined on the student’s transcript.
- Honors courses in which students have earned grades of A, B, or C will impact the weighted GPA. However, only honors courses in which students have earned grades of A or B (not P or C) will count toward an Honors Diploma.
Honors Option Courses
- Students desiring challenging opportunities may also elect to receive honors credit in courses that have been designated as honors option courses. To receive honors credit for an honors option course, the student must successfully complete assignments designated by the instructor which differ in depth, rigor, and pace. This option promotes higher-level thinking skills and provides opportunities for a variety of extended projects. To register, students will complete a Google Form for which the classroom teacher will provide a link. The registration deadline for first-semester honors option classes is October 1 and the deadline for second-semester classes is March 1. Students wishing to receive honors credit for an independent study must consult with the Advanced Learning Specialist after the course has been approved by a building administrator. Successful completion of the honors option for a course is clearly defined on the student’s transcript.
College Courses – Special Note
- All courses that receive college credit during high school (Concurrent Enrollment, CIS, and PSEO) will be considered Honors Courses and count towards the Honors Diploma. However, only courses in which students have earned grades of A or B (not P or C) will count toward an Honors Diploma.
Honors Diploma
Students may work toward an honors diploma through the Advanced Learning Services department before the end of the first year of high school. To qualify for an honors diploma, students:
- Must select a minimum of 12 credits of honors coursework.
- Must earn a final semester grade of A or B in honors, honors option, AP, or college courses to count toward the honors diploma. The student must take the course for a letter grade, rather than selecting the pass/no credit option.
Honors classes are clearly defined on a student’s transcript. In addition, students meeting the criteria for graduation with an honors diploma are recognized in the commencement program.
Advanced Placement
- The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program (AP) enables students to pursue college-level studies while in high school. Based on their performance on rigorous AP Examinations, students can earn credit, advanced placement, or both, for college. Over 90 percent of the nation’s colleges and universities have an AP policy that grants credit and/or placement for students with qualifying AP Exam grades.
- AP courses make substantial academic demands on students. Students are required to do considerable outside reading and other assignments and to demonstrate the skills and writing abilities of first-year college students.
Mentorship in the Community Honors
- Mentorship is a one-semester honors credit course. It is an accelerated, individualized program open to any student which allows students to work with professionals in the community to explore a career field.
- To enroll in the course, students must apply and provide recommendations to the Advanced Learning Specialist. A mentorship requires a commitment of a minimum of 60 hours with the mentor.
Honors Courses List
Business
- FYEX1000: College Success Strategies
Computer Science
- AP Computer Science A
- JavaScript
- Comp 1150 Computer Science Concepts (M Only)
Economics
- AP Macroeconomics
- AP Microeconomics
Engineering
- PLTW: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
- PLTW: Engineering Design and Development
- PLTW: Introduction to Engineering Design
- PLTW: Principles of Engineering
English
- English I: Foundations Honors
- English II: American Literature/Composition Honors
- English II: American Studies Honors
- English III: AP Literature and Composition
- English IV: AP Language and Composition - 1
- English IV: AP Language and Composition - 2
- English IV: Humanities-Search for Meaning Honors
- English IV: Humanities-Philosophical Thinking Through Literature Honors
- ENG1117: Reading and Writing Critically I
- ENG1118: Reading and Writing Critically II
- SPCH1100 Fundamentals of Speech
FACS
- Child Development Associate
Fine Arts
- Symphonic Winds Honors
Health Science Careers
- BIOL1107 Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology
- Emergency Medical Responder
- Phlebotomy
Human Services
- Child Development Associate
- Exploring the Teaching Profession II (CIS)
- Introduction to K-12 Teaching as a Profession (CIS)
- Mentorship in the Community Honors (Firefighter I & II)
Industrial Technology
- PLTW: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
Math
- Algebra II Advanced Functions Honors
- AP Precalculus
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Statistics
- AP Computer Science A
- Geometry Honors
- Intermediate Algebra Honors
- Precalculus Honors (C & M Only)
- MATH 2237: Multivariable and Vector Calculus
Science
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Environmental Science
- AP Physics 1
- AP Physics 2
- Biology Honors (C & M Only)
- BIOL1015 Human Physiology, Technology, and Medical Devices (CIS)
- BIOL1107 Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology
- Chemistry Honors (C & M Only)
- PLTW: Principles of Biomedical Science
Social Studies
- AP Human Geography
- AP Psychology
- AP U.S. History
- AP U.S. History: American Studies Honors
- AP United States Government
- AP US Government/AP English Language Composition
- Introduction to Psychology (CIS)
- POLS 1615 Introduction to American Government
- U.S. History: American Studies Honors
Teaching as a Profession
- Exploring the Teaching Profession II (CIS)
- Introduction to K-12 Teaching as a Profession (CIS)
World Language
- French 3 Honors
- French 4 Honors
- German 3 Honors
- German 4 Honors
- Latin 3 Honors
- Latin 4 Honors
- Spanish 3 Honors
- Spanish 4 Honors
- Advanced Foundation of Spanish for Spanish Speakers Honors
- Advanced Language & Culture for Spanish Speakers Honors
Other
- Foundations of Interpretation Services
- Mentorship in the Community Honors
Honors Option Courses List
Agriculture
- Veterinary Studies II
Business
- Accounting I
- Accounting II
- Introduction to Business
- Marketing & Management
- Personal Finance and Investing
- Small Business Strategies
Computer Science
- Algorithms and Data Structures in Python
- Computer Science Arts & Labs
- Data Science and Python
- Information Technology Launch
- IT Infrastructure
- Mobile Computer Science Principles
English
- English: Drama
- English: Speech Foundations
- English IV: Yearbook and Print Media
FACS
- Apparel/Textile Design and Construction
- Child & Human Development
- Global Culinary Arts
- Housing and Interior Design
- Personal Finance and Investing
Fine Arts
- Art II
- Art III
- Graphic & Digital Arts II
- Graphic & Digital Arts III
- Ceramics and Sculpture II
- Ceramics and Sculpture III
- Concert Choir
- Symphonic Strings
Health
- Health
Health Science Careers
- Introduction to Health Science Careers
- Nursing Assistant
- Medical Lab Science
- Pharmacy Technician
- Therapeutic Medicine
Human Services
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
Industrial Technology
- Auto Mechanics
- Power Mechanics
Reading
- Content Reading & Study Skills
Science
- Astronomy (M Only)
- Biology (JM and O Only)
- Chemistry (JM and O Only)
- Environmental Awareness
- Environmental Science
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Lab Science
Social Studies
- Anthropology
- Comparative Politics & Government (JM Only)
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Sociology
World Language
- American Sign Language 1
- French 1
- French 2
- German 1
- German 2
- Latin 1
- Latin 2
- Spanish 1
- Spanish 2
Other
- Independent Study
How do I transfer credits from an outside institution?
Please review the district policy regarding transfer of credits from outside institutions.
policy View Transfer Policy (External Site) open_in_new
What are the different ways to earn college credit during high school?
College Credit Options
school Earn college credit while in High School
The following are opportunities to earn college credit while enrolled at Century, John Marshall, Mayo, or Rochester Alternative Learning Center. See your counselor for more information.
Advanced Placement (AP)
RPS High School College Credit Courses
- •English III: AP Literature and Composition
- •English IV: AP Language and Composition – 1
- •English IV: AP Language and Composition – 2
- •AP Computer Science A
- •AP Calculus AB
- •AP Calculus BC
- •AP Statistics
- •AP Biology
- •AP Chemistry
- •AP Environmental Science
- •AP Macro Economics
- •AP Physics I
- •AP Physics 2
- •AP Precalculus
- •AP Human Geography
- •AP Psychology
- •AP US History
- •AP United States Government
College Credit Info
College credits are determined by scores on AP exams. Individual colleges establish acceptable scores through their policies.
Check college AP policies:
College Board Search open_in_newConcurrent Enrollment
Partner Programs with Riverland Community College (RCC) and Rochester Career and Technical College (RCTC)
RCC Riverland Community College
| Course | Credits (MN State) |
|---|---|
| Mentorship in Community: Firefighter 1 | 5 |
| Mentorship in Community: Firefighter 2 | 2 |
| Mentorship in Community: Hazmat | 2 |
| SPCH 1100 – Fundamentals of Speech | 3 |
RCTC Rochester Career and Technical College
| Course | Credits (MN State) |
|---|---|
| BIOL1107 – Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology | 4 |
| COMP 1150 - Computer Science Concepts | 3 |
| ENGL 1117 – Reading and Writing Critically I | 4 |
| ENGL 1118: Reading and Writing Critically II | 4 |
| FYEX 1000 – College Success Strategies | 1 |
| Calculus | - |
| MATH 2237 – Multivariable and Vector Calculus | 5 |
| POLS 1615 – Introduction to American Government | 3 |
Important: Registering for a Concurrent Enrollment course allows student assessment data to be released to the higher education institution. See Important Points to Remember below.
College in the Schools (CIS)
Partnership with University of Minnesota
| Course | U of M Semester Credits |
|---|---|
| BIOL1015 - Human Physiology, Technology, and Medical Devices | 4 |
| Introduction to Psychology | 4 |
| Introduction to K-12 Teaching as a Profession | 2 |
| Exploring the Teaching Profession II | 2 |
Note: CIS registration also allows assessment data release. See Important Points to Remember below.
Articulated College Credit
Eligible Courses
- Accounting I
- Accounting II
- Auto Mechanics
- Construction Trades I
- Construction Trades II
- Introduction to Business
- Introduction to Health Science Careers
- Introduction to Auto Technology/Engineering
- Nursing Assistant
- Veterinary Studies I
- Welding Technology I
- Welding Technology II
How it works
Agreements exist between Rochester Public Schools and RCTC. Students enrolled in specific RPS courses can earn college credit applied once enrolled at RCTC.
Credits are not guaranteed to transfer to other institutions. This is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Contact them directly.
Project Lead the Way (PLTW)
A dynamic high school program engaging students in real-world learning.
PLTW Courses
- engineeringIntroduction to Engineering Design (IED)
- settingsPrinciples of Engineering (POE)
- precision_manufacturingComputer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
- design_servicesEngineering Design and Development
- medical_servicesPrinciples of Biomedical Science
Credit Information
PLTW classes are nationally standardized. Colleges accept credits in various ways: course substitution, advanced standing, or test out.
account_balance Post Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO)
Minnesota’s PSEO program allows qualified sophomores, juniors and seniors to enroll in courses on Minnesota college campuses, at no cost to the student or family.
Connect with your HS counselor early! Important dates apply.
View RPS PSEO Information arrow_forwardConcurrent Enrollment and College in the Schools
Rochester Public Schools — Important Points to Remember
Please read carefully:
- I understand that I am taking a college course.
- This course will begin my college transcript and count for both college and high school credit.
- I understand that there are eligibility requirements for the institution for which I am applying and my academic record will be reviewed for acceptance (including standardized test scores, grades, and GPA.)
- I understand the difference between high school classes and college classes (reading and writing at the college level, research papers, tests, attendance requirements, etc.)
- I realize the ramifications of failing or dropping a class (endanger graduation, possible F on college transcript, WF/F on high school transcript.)
- I understand if I want to withdraw from a college course, I must complete a withdrawal form with my high school counselor and then let the college registrar know. As a concurrent student, I am subject to the same procedures as any other high school student when withdrawing from a course. Course failures or withdrawals could affect my graduation status and will affect my high school GPA.
- I understand that the Rochester Public Schools will pay the cost of tuition, fees, and required textbooks.
- I will complete an application with the post-secondary institution offering the course which I am taking.
- I may need to complete a college placement test, depending on my standardized test scores (MCA or ACT). The results of this placement test will determine my eligibility as well as course placement.
- I understand that all credits taken as concurrent enrollment count as honors.
- I understand it is my responsibility to seek out additional information regarding how my college credits will transfer to other two- and four-year colleges.
- I understand I will not be allowed to go through commencement ceremonies if I have not met the graduation requirements.
I grant permission for the Rochester Public School District to release the required test scores to the appropriate post-secondary institution. (Signature required on physical forms).
description Download Physical Form (PDF)
I am interested in a specific career, what should I consider?
Career Pathways
What is a Pathway at Rochester Public High Schools?
A Pathway is a series of classes that RPS students can take that will help them follow their interests and prepare for further study, training or work opportunities within a career field. As students learn more about their interests, they can explore one or more Pathways, which can help them:
- Plan their education at RPS and beyond.
- Prepare for college and career.
- Explore classes that might interest them.
- Understand how classes & careers fit together.
- Understand what is required for success.
Can I only choose one Pathway?
You are not limited by the Pathways. They are intended to help you find courses that match your interests, but you can take courses from many different Pathways, as long as you meet RPS credit requirements.
Agriculture
(page 21)
Animal Science
- Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
- Animal Science
- Veterinary Studies I
- Veterinary Studies II
Plant Science
- Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
- Plant Science
- Greenhouse Plant Production - Hybrid
Automotive
(page 53)
- Power Mechanics
- Introduction to Auto Technology/Engineering
- Auto Mechanics
Business
(page 23)
Finance
- Accounting I
- Accounting II
- Small Business Strategies
Marketing
- Introduction to Business
- Marketing and Management
- Small Business Strategies
Computer Science and IT
(page 25)
- Information Technology Launch
- Information Technology Infrastructure
- JavaScript
- Data Science with Python
- Mobile Computer Science Principles
- Comp 1150 Computer Science Concepts
- AP Computer Science A
- Algorithms and Data Structures in Python
- Computer Science Arts and Labs
Construction
(page 54)
- Wood Products and Technology
- Construction Trades I
- Construction Trades II
Engineering
(page 28)
- PLTW: Introduction to Engineering Design
- PLTW: Principles of Engineering
- PLTW: Engineering Design and Development
Health Science Careers
(page 49)
- Introduction to Health Science Careers
- BIOL1107: Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology
- Emergency Medical Responder
- Nursing Assistant
- Medical Lab Science
- Pharmacy Technician
- Therapeutic Medicine
Hospitality
(page 41)
- Foundations of Hospitality and Tourism
- Foundations of Culinary Arts
- Global Culinary Arts
- Culinary Chef
- Culinary Management
Human Services
(page 51)
- Child Development Associate (page 51)
- Emergency Medical Responder (page 50 and 52)
- Firefighter (page 52 and 85)
- Introduction to Peace Officer and Criminal Justice (POCJ) Careers
- Introduction to Criminal Justice (p52)
- Introduction to K-12 Teaching as a Profession (page 53 and 76)
- Exploring the Teaching Profession II (page 53 and 76)
Manufacturing
(page 55)
- PLTW: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
- Welding Technology I
- Welding Technology II
- Machine Technology I
- Machine Technology II
Teaching As A Profession
(page 76)
- Introduction to K-12 Teaching as a Profession
- Exploring the Teaching Profession II
What is CTECH?
Career and Technical Education Center at Heintz
CTECH is a dynamic collaboration between Rochester Public Schools, Rochester Community Technical College (RCTC), and our professional community. CTECH offers inspiring hands-on programs, combining rigorous coursework with project-based learning in a collaborative setting for students who want to gain a deep understanding of, and actively participate in, high demand professions.
Purpose
Offers opportunities to develop purpose for life after high school, whether that be college, career, or otherwise.
Professional Skills
Develops employability skills such as timeliness, organization, professionalism, collaboration, and communication.
Competitive Advantage
Provides industry-recognized certifications and experiences that give students a competitive edge.
Career Pathways & Courses
- Introduction to AFNR
- Veterinary Studies I & II
- Greenhouse Plant
- IT Infrastructure
- JavaScript & Data Science
- Algorithms & Structures
- Computer Science Arts & Labs
- Construction Trades I
- Construction Trades II
- Eng. Design and Development
- Principles of Engineering
- Robotics
- Intro to HSC & Nursing Asst
- Medical Lab Science & Pharmacy Tech
- Therapeutic Medicine
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Culinary Chef & Management
- Child Development Associate
- Emergency Medical Responder
- Peace Officer & Criminal Justice
- Child Development Associate
- Computer Integrated Mfg
- Machine Technology I & II
- Welding Technology I & II
- Intro to Psych
- Intro to K-12 Teaching
- Exploring Teaching II
Schedule & Transportation
Courses meet for one semester (1.0 credit per block). Transportation is provided between CTECH and all high schools.
| Block | Time |
|---|---|
| Block 1-2 | 9:05 - 10:15am |
| Block 3-4 | 10:50 - 12:00pm |
| Block 5 | 12:20 - 1:30pm |
| Block 6-7 | 2:05 - 3:15pm |
Have specific questions?
Contact Brandon Macrafic (Principal) or Kari Sikkema (Office Manager)
What is P-TECH?
Pathways in Technology Early College High (P-TECH) 535
P-TECH 535 is Minnesota’s first version of a pioneering education reform initiative created to prepare young people with the academic, technical, and professional skills required for career and college.
Students earn both a high school diploma and a postsecondary credential, participating in workplace experiences like mentorships and internships with Mayo Clinic and IBM.
Career Pathways
Information Technology
- Associate in Applied Science from RCTC
- Industry mentorship & internships
Practical Nursing
- Program diploma from RCTC
- Clinical experiences at Mayo Clinic
Design Principles
- check_circle Public/Private partnership
- check_circle Integrated HS & College coursework
- check_circle No academic/testing requirements
- check_circle Workplace learning & Paid internships
- check_circle First-in-line for entry-level jobs
Schedule Progression
9th & 10th Grade
Split day: Half at high school (Science, Social Studies, PE/Health/Arts), Half at P-TECH (Numeracy, Literacy, Career/Pathway courses).
11th Grade
School day split between home high school and RCTC coursework.
12th Grade
Majority (or all) of school day spent at RCTC working on degree/diploma.
Contact Information
What is Credit By Assessment?
Test Out Opportunity
Credit by Assessment allows students to "test out" of a subject by demonstrating competency through both written and performance-based assessments of the objectives in a given course.
info Getting Started
Tests are administered twice per school year. See your counselor for:
- Additional information regarding the process
- Application to apply for Credit by Assessment
- Specific dates for test administration
Available Tests
Math & Health
- Health
- Intermediate Algebra Honors
- Geometry Honors
- Algebra II Advanced Functions Honors
- Precalculus Honors
Social Studies & World Languages
- US History
- World History
- French 1, 2, 3 Honors and 4 Honors
- German 1, 2, 3 Honors and 4 Honors
- Latin 1, 2, 3 Honors and 4 Honors
- Spanish 1, 2, 3 Honors and 4 Honors
How do I contact counselors?
Each high school has a dedicated counseling team to support students with academic planning, college and career readiness, and social-emotional well-being.
Counseling Services
Find contact information for your school's counselors.