Hopkinton school officials approved a plan to increase the high school’s graduation requirements, putting the policy into effect beginning with next year’s incoming freshmen class.

Board members had a final read-through of the policy, which has been in the works for about a year, at their Tuesday, Oct. 7, meeting.

Residents had a chance to hear about the plan recently, as officials held a public hearing to discuss the changes with community members.

Previously, students were required to complete 20 credits at the high school, a number that will now increase to 24.

Principal Steve Chamberlin said most students already complete more than the required 20 credits, so adding four more will not cause stress to the students’ schedules.

“We think all students should have an opportunity to experience these things before they leave high school,” Chamberlin said. “The increase in requirements is really going to have these kids in good shape when they leave school.”

Science requirements will increase from two to three credits, social studies from 2.5 to three credits, career awareness from one-fourth to one-half credit, and students will also be required to finish the second level of a world language class.

The board’s approval is pending change in the policy’s wording from “year” to “level” of a world language class.

In addition, two new programs will be brought to the school, as students will now need to finish a half-credit practical art course, and take part an experiential learning program.

The practical art course will give students a choice between wood technology, family and consumer science, business education or Project Lead the Way.

With the experiential learning requirement, students will need to take part in an adventure education course, do a senior project, complete an internship or do a service learning project.

Superintendent of Schools Brian Blake said the requirements will keep students up to date with educational needs.

“We saw a need to make sure we’re providing kids with 21st-century skills,” said Blake. “In the future, social studies and science, in particular, are becoming all the more important with the global economy.”