Three years of social studies credit are needed to meet high school graduation requirements. Learners must earn credits in United States History Since 1877 (one credit), U.S. Government (one-half credit) and Economics (one-half credit). The third credit may be chosen from World Geography or World History.

The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) program includes annual assessments for social studies at grade 8  and an end of course assessment for the High School United States History course.