All students are required to take a minimum of five courses each semester, not including physical education. Each full semester of instruction within a core subject area counts as one academic unit. Courses in mathematics and foreign languages require sequential enrollment. Introductory coursework or proof of competence must be completed prior to enrollment in advanced coursework and some Fine and Performing Arts courses. Forty-two Upper School academic units are required for graduation including:

• 8 units of literature and composition, including Origins I-II.
• 8 units of social sciences, including 2 units of American history.
• 8 units of mathematics, including Algebra II and Geometry.
• 6 units of laboratory science, including 2 units each of a life and physical science.
• 6 consecutive units of a single world language.
• 4 units of visual and performing arts.

Four units of Health and Physical Education are academic requirements. Participation in intermediate, junior varsity, and varsity athletics may be substituted for as many as 2 P.E. units. Graduating seniors are required to have at least 100 hours of documented community service approved by the Secondary Principal or Curriculum Director. Most courses require semester final examinations for completion.