Discover New Bedford High School


Program of Study



New Bedford High School (NBHS) offers a broad array of courses, academic pathways, and specialized programs to engage all students in rigorous learning and prepare them for success after high school.


Graduation Requirements

In order to earn a diploma from New Bedford High School, every student must meet the district’s graduation requirements. New Bedford’s requirements are based on MassCore, a state-recommended program of study intended to align high school coursework with college and workforce expectations.

A student must earn 24 credits and comply with state accountability requirements, including earning a passing score on the Grade 10 MCAS exam in English Language Arts (ELA), Mathematics, and one of the high school Science and Technology/Engineering tests.

Academic Pathways

In addition to courses in the core subject areas, NBHS offers an extensive variety of academic pathways and specialized programs to enhance students’ educational experience and prepare them for success after high school. Students are encouraged to pursue a course of study that aligns with their interests, skills, and college and career goals.

     NBHS Academic Pathways, School Year 2023-24:

  • Academy of Honors
  • Advanced Placement (AP)
  • Career Vocational Technical Education
  • Early College
  • International Baccalaureate*
  • Magnent Academy of Civic Leadership and World Studies – NEW in 2023
  • National Academy Foundation (NAF) Academies
  • Visual and Performing Arts

*International Baccalaureate (IB) World Schools share a common philosophy -- a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education -- that we believe is important for our students. Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), or the Career-related Programme (CP). For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org.


Click on the following links to learn more about the academic pathways…


Resources for Students & Families

  • Flier: Discover NBHS - Academic Pathways
  • Digital Brochure: Discover NBHS - Academic Pathways
  • Course Requirements at NBHS

Course Catalog: NBHS Program of Study