Vistamar students are expected to carry six regular credits during each school term. The requirement for the Vistamar diploma is the equivalent of 21 full year courses, which must include the 15 courses meeting the minimim requirement for entry to the University of California system. Beyond the UC-prescribed courses, Vistamar students must take a full year of modular science and a full year of world studies in grade nine, an additional year of foreign language, and a supplementary course in computer literacy. Participation in a grade-level seminar each year is also required. Additional Vistamar credits may be earned through any combination of full year courses, trimester courses , and arts electives.
Other Diploma Requirements
Students must meet the following additional requirements to qualify for the Vistamar diploma:
Maintain a healthy level of physical activity through every term of enrollment by playing an interscholastic or club level sport, participating in dance, or by taking fitness electives.
Attain an oral proficiency rating of “Intermediate High” in Spanish or “Intermediate Mid” in Mandarin Chinese based on ACTFL standards. (If English is serving as the student’s second language, a minimum proficiency rating of “Advanced Low” must be attained in English and a rating of “Advanced Mid” in the student’s mother tongue.)
Complete a short-course in computer literacy -OR- qualify for and pass a higher level computer course
Complete a total of 80 hours of approved community service or international service over four years.
Complete a senior portfolio or exhibition project, meeting established standards.
Complete all registered courses in the senior year with a passing grade.
Maintain a record of good conduct and citizenship throughout the term of enrollment at Vistamar.
Transfer Students
Transcripts of students transferring to Vistamar at grade 10 or above will be evaluated on an individual basis. Credit will be awarded for each course that is reasonably comparable to a Vistamar course and in which the student has earned a grade of “C” or higher.
