What Is a Dual Diploma Program? Credits, Subjects Covered
Most students expect to graduate with one diploma. That is how school usually works. So when someone says they are graduating with two through a Dual Diploma Program, the first question is usually, how does that even work, followed closely by, do they have twice as much homework
A Dual Diploma program is actually simpler than it sounds. Students earn their local high school qualification while also completing coursework toward an internationally recognized American High School Diploma.
The best part is, it does not involve starting over. It just runs alongside what they are already doing in school.
Most students are not thinking about university applications while doing homework. They are focused on the next test or simply getting through the school week. A lesson completed today may not feel important in the moment. But later, those small academic steps can start to matter. Even a single credit can open up more university options.
So what exactly do students study, and how many credits are required to earn a Dual Diploma?
What Are the Subjects Covered?
Core Subjects (4 Credits)
- English – 2 credits (level depends on the student’s placement)
- U.S. History – 1 credit
- U.S. Government and Economics – 1 credit
Elective Subjects (2 Credits)
Students choose two electives based on their interests. Popular options include:
- Psychology
- Digital Photography
- Public Speaking and Journalism
- Criminology
- Life Management Skills
- Concepts of Engineering and Technology
- College Entrance Exam Preparation (SAT/ACT)
How Do the Credits Work?
An American High School Diploma requires 24 credits for graduation. In the Dual Diploma program, students complete 6 U.S.-specific credits. The remaining credits come from their school curriculum at home.
Students are not starting over or repeating school. They continue what they are already studying and add a small set of U.S. courses alongside it.
Why Choose a Dual Diploma Program?
By graduation, students earn two qualifications, their local high school diploma and an American High School Diploma.
It is not just an extra certificate. It can make a difference when applying to universities abroad.
The program is designed so students are not overwhelmed. It does take a bit of extra effort, but it fits into what they are already doing, so their school life does not really change much day to day.
Over time, it usually just means having a few more options and getting a little closer to universities that once felt out of reach.
FAQ
A Dual Diploma Program allows students to earn both their local high school diploma and an American High School Diploma at the same time. Students continue studying in their regular school while completing additional U.S. courses online.
Students complete 6 U.S. credits as part of the Dual Diploma program. The remaining credits required for the American diploma are fulfilled through their local school curriculum
Students study core subjects such as English, U.S. History, and U.S. Government & Economics. They also choose elective subjects based on their interests, including options like Psychology, Journalism, Digital Photography, and Criminology.
