Endorsements

In Texas, students must select an endorsement – an area of focus for their high school coursework – before ninth grade. Students are able to choose from five endorsement areas: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), Business and Industry, Arts and Humanities, Public Service, or Multidisciplinary Studies.

Endorsements show specialization and accomplishment in certain disciplines and are earned by successfully completing selections of courses within the specified category. School counselors meet with students to determine the endorsements students plan to earn toward their graduation plans.   

Students may earn one or more endorsements as part of their high school diploma. An endorsement consists of a sequence of courses that are grouped together by interest or occupational skill. They provide students with in-depth knowledge of a subject area or a high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand occupation. Every career and technical education (CTE) Program of Study leads to an endorsement. Students earn an endorsement by completing four credits each in both math and science, two additional elective credits, and the curriculum requirements for the endorsement.

 Texas Education Agency - Endorsement flyer