The credits required by the Illinois State Board of Education for an accredited high school diploma are:
- English - 4 credits
- Mathematics - 3 credits
- Science (including Health) - 2 credits
- American History - 1 credit
- Global Studies - 1 credit
- Social/Studies/Government/Consumer Education - 1 credit
- Fine/PracticalArts - 1 credit
- Electives - 7 credits
- US/ Illinois Constitution (9-12)
In addition to state requirements, VGA requires the following courses:
- Character Education - 1 credit
- African/American Studies - 1 credit
In addition VGA requires:
- each student to take an English course every quarter
- each student to take a reading course every other quarter
All graduates are required to pass the following tests:
- Five paragraph essay
- Mathematics test
- Summarizing skill test
Students must continue full time attendance until all three tests are passed.
Electives offered:
- Parenting Skills
- Computer Skills
- Elder Care
- Conflict Resolution Skills
- Substance Abuse
- Neighborhood Gardening
- Practical Law
- Diet and Exercise
- Employment Skills
- Marriage and Family Life