Entering high school is often the point when students and families begin thinking more intentionally about graduation requirements, college preparation, and long-term academic goals. Building a structured four year high school plan helps ensure that required credits are completed while leaving room for electives and individual interests.
For students enrolled in an online school, thoughtful course planning is especially important. Reviewing graduation requirements, mapping out courses by year, and consulting with an academic advisor can help families approach high school with clarity and confidence.
NorthStar Academy offers a wide range of high school courses across core academic subjects, Bible, world languages, fine arts, computer science, and electives. Understanding how these courses fit into a four year high school plan helps students make informed decisions about their academic pathway.
Families who would like guidance in course planning may contact the Academic Advising Office for additional support.
What Are NorthStar Academy’s Graduation Requirements?
A four year high school plan begins with a clear understanding of graduation requirements.
At NorthStar Academy, students complete:
- Four credits of English
- Three credits each of math, science, and social studies
- Two credits of Bible
- One credit of fine arts
- One credit of computer science
- Five credits of electives
- Half-credit courses in government, personal finance, physical education, and health education
Families may review the full graduation requirements online to better understand credit expectations and diploma pathways. These structured requirements provide the foundation for both the standard and advanced diploma pathways.
Summary of Building a Four Year High School Plan
Developing a four year high school plan at an online school involves:
- Reviewing graduation requirements
- Understanding diploma options
- Sequencing courses by year
- Aligning coursework with postsecondary goals
Families who are new to online education may find it helpful to review the broader online high school guide for additional context. NorthStar Academy provides defined graduation pathways and academic advising to help families organize coursework within a structured framework.
Standard and Advanced Diploma Options
As part of course planning online, students should review the distinctions between the standard and advanced diploma pathways.
The advanced diploma includes:
- One additional credit in math
- One additional credit in science
- Two elective credits completed in a foreign language
Families may wish to compare these pathways with detailed information available on the online high school program overview page. Understanding these differences early allows families to build a four year high school plan that aligns with long-term goals.
The Importance of Course Planning Online
Course planning online requires intentional sequencing of classes across ninth through twelfth grade. While online learning offers flexibility in scheduling, graduation requirements remain clearly defined.
An effective four year high school plan helps students:
- Balance core academic courses and electives
- Meet prerequisite requirements
- Plan for advanced coursework when appropriate
- Stay on track toward graduation
Using a Four Year Plan Template
Many families find it helpful to organize coursework using a four year plan template. This type of tool allows students to:
- Visualize course sequencing
- Identify prerequisites
- Track completed and remaining credits
- Adjust plans as goals develop
While templates provide structure, academic advising can offer additional insight into course rigor, pacing, and diploma pathways.
Graduation Requirements and Long-Term Planning
A four year high school plan must remain aligned with graduation requirements. Reviewing credit expectations and diploma pathways ensures that elective choices and advanced coursework remain consistent with overall academic goals.
Families are encouraged to carefully review NorthStar Academy’s online high school accreditation information when planning long-term academic pathways.
Academic Advising Support
NorthStar Academy’s Academic Advising team assists families by:
- Reviewing graduation pathways
- Clarifying diploma options
- Supporting course sequencing
- Providing transcript guidance
Families who would like to explore enrollment options may visit the online high school admissions page for additional information or contact us today to speak with a NorthStar staff member!