• The science department offers a wide variety of courses to serve the needs and interests of its high school population. A minimum of three (3) years of science study is required for a diploma. Students must take and pass the Living Environment course in Biology and a Physical Science course in either Earth Science, Chemistry or Physics, and a third year of Science or Technology. In addition, students must pass at least one Regents examination in science. To earn an Advanced Regents diploma, students must pass the Living Environment course in Biology, as well as two Physical Science courses and pass two Regents exams. Most students will begin their study Living Environment. As science and technology increasingly impact our society, science study for at least three or four years in high school becomes increasingly important for a student preparing to enter the national workforce or to pursue advanced study in any area. All courses ending in a Regents examination have a New York State 1,200- minute minimum lab requirement.