Southeastern Community College’s Transitional Studies Program, "formerly called the Basic Skills Program," is designed to develop students' reading, communication, problem-solving and computation, writing, critical thinking, and job-readiness skills. Instruction incorporates practical, real-life content that will prepare adults for employment. Integrated education and training are provided to low-skills adults, individuals with disabilities, literacy program participants, out-of-school youth, ex-offenders, and English language acquisition students. Students receive instruction and support as they complete the requirements for a nationally recognized high equivalency diploma. Students can anticipate this program to be the basis for further higher education opportunities, career training, and higher-income jobs.
SCC provides instruction for individuals with developmental disabilities at sites throughout Columbus County. Individuals enrolled in the programs learn the fundamentals of mathematics, science, social studies, reading, technology, and oral and written communication. At the same time instructors are preparing students for employment and economic self-sufficiency.
Our Transitional Studies Program serve adults through the following tuition-free programs:
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
The purpose of the Adult Basic Education program is to provide instruction to those individuals who are functioning below a ninth-grade level. Instruction covers the fundamentals of mathematics, science, social studies, reading, digital literacy, and oral and written communication. Upon the completion of ABE-level courses, the individual should be equipped to enter the High School Equivalency Preparation program.
Adult Secondary Education (ASE)
The purpose of the Adult Secondary Education program is to prepare adults for further education or transition toward skill obtainment and employment. The program prepares individuals for the official High School Equivalency (HSE) test and enhance workplace employability skills. Instruction covers digital literacy, mathematics, social studies, science, reading, and language arts.
There are no registration fees. All materials are specifically prepared for adults with emphasis on individual needs and interests. Off-campus sites are located throughout the county. The ASE/High School Equivalency preparation program is available online to individuals who qualify.
High School Equivalency (HSE) Preparation
The High School Equivalency program offers instruction to assist learners in preparing to successfully pass a designated high school equivalency assessment. Southeastern Community College administers the HiSET® test to students who are seeking a High School Equivalency Diploma awarded by the State Board of Community Colleges. The HiSET® is recognized by US Department of Education, and it is offered through both Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and Pencil-Based Testing (PBT).
The HiSET® test is made up of the following five sections:
- Language Arts - Reading
- Language Arts - Writing
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
The test is given approximately every month. The fee for taking the HiSET® (CBT) is $53.75 or $10.75 per test or (PBT) $75 or $15 per test.
Accommodations are available for test takers with diagnosed disabilities that include, but are not limited, to:
- Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
- Psychological or psychiatric disorders
- Learning and other cognitive disabilities
- Physical disorders/chronic health disabilities
- Intellectual disabilities
- Hearing and visual impairment
The HiSET® test is accepted as a valid means of awarding a high school diploma. Most employers and training programs accept the High School Equivalency diploma in the same manner as traditional high school diplomas. In addition, students may enroll in any community college program with the HSE diploma. Universities will accept HSE graduates after they meet other admission requirements. Students usually complete their first two years at a community college and then transfer to a four-year school. Certain branches of the military will also accept HSE graduates, while some branches may have additional requirements.
Adults who have not completed high school may take the HiSET® test at SCC.
English Language Learners (ELL)
The English Language Acquisition Program is designed for individuals whose native language is not English. These classes include instruction in literacy and English language acquisition, instructions on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and civic participation and may include workforce training.
For more information, visit our program website at www.sccnc.edu/continuing-education-2/transitional-studies-program/ or call 910-788-6401.