Academics
Graduation Requirements
All Saint Joseph High School students study four years of laboratory science and four years of math and have hands-on access to the latest technology tools. All students receive faculty support (student to teacher ratio: 8:1). SJHS is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
Core Curriculum
Saint Joseph High School offers a challenging and engaging college preparatory curriculum, including four years of math and laboratory science, a wide range of elective options, and the opportunity to choose from 21 college courses to earn college in high school credits. Students learn to value academic challenges and develop study habits that will help in college.
FRESHMAN
| Content Area | SJHS Course |
|---|---|
| Religion | Christ: The Eternal Word; Christ: Who is Jesus? |
| English | English Language Literature 9 |
| History | Civilization I |
| Mathematics | Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 |
| Science | Conceptual Physics |
| Foreign Language | French 1, Latin 1, Spanish 1 |
| Physical Education | |
| Freshmen Orientation |
SOPHOMORES
| Content Area | SJHS Course |
|---|---|
| Religion | The Paschal Mystery; The Church |
| English | American Literature |
| History | Foundations of the Republic* |
| Mathematics | Geometry, Algebra 2, Pre-Calculus |
| Science | Chemistry |
| Foreign Language | French 2, Latin 2, Spanish 2 |
| Physical Education |
JUNIORS
| Content Area | SJHS Course |
|---|---|
| Religion | Sacraments; Life in Christ |
| English | Topics in Literature |
| History | Modern American History, Emergence of Mass Democracy* |
| Mathematics | Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry Functions, College Algebra, Business Calculus*, or Engineering Calculus* |
| Science | Biology |
| Foreign Language | French 3, Latin 3, Spanish 3 |
| Physical Education |
SENIORS
| Content Area | SJHS Course |
|---|---|
| Religion | Sacraments- Discerning Vocation; Catholic Social Justice |
| English | Diversity and Literature* |
| History | American Government and Politics |
| Mathematics | Pre-calculus, Trigonometry Functions, College Algebra*, Business Calculus*, Engineering Calculus*, or Calculus II |
| Science | Physics 2, Materials Science, Biology 2, College Physics* |
| Foreign Language | Introduction to French, French 4, Latin 4, Spanish 4 |
| Physical Education |
ELECTIVES
Art History* (12), AP Computer Science Principles (9/10/11/12), Ceramics/Sculpture (10/11/12), Child Development* (11/12), Drawing and Painting (9/10/11), Engineering/Robotics I & II (9/10/11/12), Fundamentals of Journalism (10/11/12), Independent Art Project (12), Introduction to Art (9/10/11/12), Introduction to Psychology* (11/12), Science Research (9/10/11/12), Statistics* (10/11/12)
* denotes Dual Enrollment / College in High School course
Academic Support
At Saint Joseph High School, we believe in supporting all students through inclusive education in the classroom. The goal of the Academic Support team is to provide a well-rounded education that encompasses not only academic excellence but also spiritual growth. Our team is dedicated to helping students thrive academically and achieve their full potential while upholding the principles and values of our Catholic faith. LEARN MORE.
SJHS Dual Enrollment / College in High School Program
Saint Joseph High School offers students 61 college credits from Carlow University, Duquesne University, La Roche College, Saint Vincent College, Seton Hill, and the University of Pittsburgh. The average student will earn 22 credits upon graduation. Some SJHS students begin college as a second semester freshman or first semester sophomore. This translates into one or two semesters of college tuition at a fraction of the cost. This program gives students greater control over their college experience. Some choose to graduate early, while others study abroad, double major, or explore academic interests outside of their major.
CHS/Dual Enrollment Credits Offered
Average Credits Earned by Graduation
- Computer Science Principles
- Calculus II
- American Government and Politics
- Art: College Drawing
- Art History: Renaissance to Modern Art
- Business Calculus
- Engineering Calculus
- Catholic Social Teaching
- Child Development
- College Algebra
- College Chemistry
- College Physics
- Genocide and Holocaust
- Emergence of Mass Democracy
- English Language Literature
- Foundations of the Republic
- Introduction to Psychology
- Latin 4
- Spanish 4
- Statistics
- Topics in Literature