If I get a GED.....?

Question

If I get a GED will I have to take developmental courses before taking regular courses at college? I heard you have to take developmental courses to make up the high school credits you lack.I only completed 10th grade so how many developmental courses would I have to take and for how long?

Answer 1

It depends on the college. If you are going straight to a University than yes, you'll probably have to take developmental courses for a semester or two depending on the college's requirements. If you are starting out at a community college (2-year school), you probably won't need the developmental courses. I got my GED and started regular college classes the following fall at a community college. Then, you can head to a 4 year university for the rest of your B.A. or B.S., without having to take developmental courses, which is also what I did. Its less expensive to get your A.A. or A.S. at a community college anyway. Good luck!

Answer 2

It will depend completely on your academic ability. The GED as with a high school diploma, does not guarentee preperation for college level classes. The only valid method that is available for community collleges or universities to guage this ability in students is through placement testing. If you score high enough on each placement test (language arts, mathematics, etc.) then you will be placed in the corresponding college level course such as College Algebra, Composition I, etc. However, if the placement test finds deficiencies in your prerequisite ability, than the insitution will place you in a developmental course to help you with needed skills.

The GED equates only to a high school level of graduation, and not college prep skills, where expectaions can sometimes be higher depending on the school of your choice. Yes, this also applies to many community colleges, as well, which have annied up the stakes to further secure state and local funding.