Transitional Studies

The Transitional Studies Department offers educational opportunities at no cost to adults who wish to improve the skills or earn the High School credential that would enable them to be more successful in today’s workplace. Finish High School: Adult Secondary Education (ASE), Adult Basic Education (ABE), Career Academy, and English Language Acquisition (ELA) provide foundational instruction in reading, writing, math, speaking, listening, and technology in the context of careers, career exploration, workplace literacy, college enrollment, and postsecondary training. Programs are available to address varying student needs and interests. All classes are offered at no cost to the student. Students who enroll in the Transitional Studies programs must be 18 years or older and not enrolled in public school. Sixteen and 17-year olds may enroll with parental permission and appropriate documentation.

Adult Secondary Education (ASE): Finish High School

High School Equivalency (HSE)
Adult residents of North Carolina who have not completed high school may earn a High School Equivalency Diploma by passing a battery of tests. Students may choose to take the GED® (General Educational Development tests) or the HiSET (High School Equivalency Tests). Classes provide instruction for preparation for these tests and are available morning, afternoons, and evenings, both on- and off- campus and at some worksites. Contact the Transitional Studies office for more information. Testing fees are paid directly to the testing company.

Adult High School Diploma (AHS)
AHS provides coursework for adults who wish to earn a high school diploma through course credit completion not previously earned in a tradi- tional high school setting. The program consists of core courses required by the NC Department of Public Instruction along with electives re- quired by the local public school system and the community college. Students who successfully complete all program requirements will receive an Adult High School Diploma issued jointly by Pitt County Schools and Pitt Community College. Students wishing to enter AHS may contact the Transitional Studies office for more information.

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

ABE is designed for adults who need to improve communication (reading, writing, speaking), numeracy, computation, and problem-solving skills necessary to function effectively in society, in employment, or in the family. All classes provide reading, writing, and math instruction in the con- text of workforce readiness and careers. Computer-assisted and distance instruction are available to supplement instruction for students working toward their goals. Classes are available throughout the Pitt County area.

Distance Education

Distance Learning opportunities to improve English and/or academic skills, prepare for HSE tests, prepare for post-secondary training enroll- ment, and/or prepare for college entry are available as both hybrid and regular distance classes. Students may request distance learning as a sup- plement to their instruction or instead of traditional classes only if they have a valid placement test score in reading and/or math. Each distance learning program requires a minimum weekly attendance in order for students to remain active in the program.

English Language Acquisition (ELA)

ELA, formerly English as a Second Language (ESL), instructs adults whose primary language is not English. The program helps adults improve their English reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. All ELA courses help adults become literate in English and obtain the knowledge and necessary skills for employment, for economic self- sufficiency, and/or for furthering education. Classes range from beginning to advanced levels.

Transition Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC is available to all students as a drop-in supplement for their courses. Adults who have flexible schedules, are enrolled in Distance Learning, or who need additional support and assistance may access the lab at any available time. Individualized instruction is available for improving reading, writing, math, speaking, listening, and technology skills, as well as preparing for high school equivalency tests. The Center offers an open lab format and provides a wealth of resources for the adult learner. Students may use textbooks, computers, and other materials to assist in their learning. Distance Learning opportunities are also available through the TLC. Contact the Transitional Studies office for hours of operation and additional information.

Transition Math and English

Transition Math and English are offered to any high school or HSE graduate or HSE near-graduate to provide academic review and refreshment for college entry, or to take and achieve credit for required transition courses prior to college enrollment. This tuition-free program is available throughout each program year. Individualized learning opportunities through the TLC are also available for students needing additional instruction.

Career Academy

Career Academy provides intensive basic academic instruction in the context of career development, career exploration, and employability skills to students who have difficulties or challenges in learning. Students completing the academy receive a certificate of completion that they may then use to assist in job attainment. Career modules and topics provide hands-on and experience-based learning opportunities in a variety of career paths.