Michigan's Merit Curriculum establishes the coursework and credit requirements that all public high school students must complete to earn a diploma.
Overview of the Michigan Merit Curriculum
The Michigan Merit Curriculum (MMC), enacted in 2006, sets statewide graduation requirements designed to ensure all students leave high school prepared for college, career, and civic life. The curriculum specifies minimum credit requirements across core academic subjects and reflects the state's commitment to rigorous preparation for postsecondary success.
Required Credits by Subject
Students must earn a minimum of 16 credits in specified areas, including four credits in English language arts, four in mathematics (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II), three in science, three in social studies, one in physical education and health, and one in visual or performing arts. In addition, students must complete two credits in a world language (a language other than English), which may be earned at any time during grades K-12 or through equivalent learning experiences; one of the two credits may be fulfilled through an approved career and technical education program or additional visual or performing arts coursework. Students must also complete an online learning experience as part of their graduation requirements.
Personal Curriculum Option
Michigan law provides a Personal Curriculum option that allows certain credit requirements to be modified for individual students. This process involves the student, parent or guardian, school counselor, and a qualified teacher, and must be documented and approved by the school superintendent. The Personal Curriculum does not reduce the total number of credits required for graduation.
How MARESA Supports Districts
MARESA assists local districts with graduation planning through curriculum alignment support, professional development for counselors and administrators, and access to regional data on student progress toward meeting graduation requirements.