Earning Your North Carolina High School Diploma!

North Carolina offers individuals who did not graduate high school a chance to earn a high school diploma as an adult. Read on to learn about the state's Adult High School program, as well as other basic education options.

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North Carolina Adult High School Diploma Program Overview

North Carolina offers adults without a high school diploma several alternatives that range from learning the basic skills needed to find a job and function in society to earning a GED or an adult high school diploma. Instruction is also available to specific groups, such as the homeless, learning-disabled individuals and institutionalized adults, through the Special Populations for Basic Skills and Workfirst programs. More information may be found through North Carolina Community Colleges (www.nccommunitycolleges.edu).

According to the Public Schools of North Carolina, high school graduates must have completed 22 units, including four each of English, mathematics and social studies, as well as three of science, one of health and physical education and six electives units, including two from career and technical education, arts education or world languages.

Adult High School Diploma

Graduates 16 years or older are eligible for the Adult High School (AHS) program, though those under 18 will need to complete a Minor Enrollment Packet. Adults who want a diploma can find the required classes at 41 of the 58 community colleges in the state. Completing the program consists of taking 20 to 28 credits, depending on the program put together by the Department of Public Instruction, the local public school system and the participating community college.

Upon completion of required courses, one must take the North Carolina Competency Test and gain passing scores in math and reading. The program is usually free, though colleges may charge other fees. The diploma is awarded by the State Board of Education.

Adult Basic Education

The Adult Basic Education (ABE) program is designed to help adults who aren't necessarily looking to earn a diploma or GED, but who wish to improve their skills in the learning basics of reading, speaking, writing or computation. The program is especially geared to improve the student's work skills and enhance his or her's chances in the workplace. One will need to complete some assessments before being placed in one of six levels.

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