Program Overview
A Foundation for What’s Next
USJ High School Diploma Programs are designed to help learners complete core secondary coursework while exploring academic and career interests in a supportive environment.
Students may use diploma completion as a starting point for future Associate’s and Master’s study pathways. Any transferability, partner-institution relationships, and credit recognition must be confirmed with the receiving institution and USJ before enrollment.
Diploma Tracks by Category
Explore the listed study directions below. Track availability, curriculum, and progression requirements are subject to confirmation.
General Studies
Core academic preparation across English, mathematics, science, and social studies.
College Preparation
Course planning intended to support future postsecondary applications.
Justice & Public Safety
Foundational exploration of justice, civic responsibility, and public safety.
Health Sciences
Introductory study for learners interested in health and community care.
STEM & Technology
Mathematics, science, and technology-focused academic preparation.
Humanities & Communication
Reading, writing, history, and communication-centered study.
Career Exploration
Guided exploration of academic interests and career possibilities.
Flexible Completion
Supportive pacing and planning for students completing diploma requirements.
How to Get Started
A clear, student-centered process for beginning your diploma pathway.
01
Submit an Application
Start with the USJ application and indicate your interest in High School Diploma Programs.
02
Share Your Records
Provide available school records or transcripts for an individualized review.
Admissions and academic teams can help students identify next steps, support needs, and a realistic completion plan.
03
Review Your Plan
Meet with an advisor to discuss coursework, testing, and possible pathway options.
04
Begin With Support
Enroll in approved coursework and use available tutoring, testing, and remedial support as needed.
Texas Graduation & Credit Guide
Student-facing planning information based on stated Texas standards and USJ program guidance. Requirements, transferability, testing, and admissions decisions can change; verify details directly with the relevant admissions office, institution, testing agency, or state authority before relying on them.
Foundation Program
22 credits total. Plan for 130 instructional hours per credit, or 2,860 instructional hours across the 22-credit program.
Foundation + Endorsement
26 credits total. Plan for 130 instructional hours per credit, or 3,380 instructional hours across the 26-credit program.
Core Course Plan
Core planning includes English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, physical education, languages other than English, fine arts, and electives. Confirm the current course sequence with your advisor.
Science & Clinical Learning
Science courses include 40% science lab time. Health and technical pathways may also require 60–100 clinical hours; placement and documentation requirements vary.
GED Intensive Track
A 3-month intensive acceleration track for GED preparation. Confirm current GED subject-score requirements, testing availability, and eligibility with the testing agency.
Accelerated Diploma
A regular 2-year accelerated diploma pathway. Individual pacing, credit review, and graduation eligibility should be confirmed with USJ.
Junior Transition Track
A 10-month Junior Transition Track designed for students preparing to move into the next stage of their academic plan. Confirm placement and completion requirements.
Transfer & Admissions
Associate and selective-university admission benchmarks are informational only. Each receiving institution determines its own admission, transfer-credit, and placement decisions.
Admissions & Support
Requirements, Testing, and Progression
