Understanding Developmental Classes

Sometimes students who place into developmental classes are unclear about what that means and how it will affect them. Here are some answers to common questions.

What is a developmental course?

Developmental courses are designed to support success in college-level work. You don't earn institutional credit for developmental courses, but they have “billable hours,” so they count as credits as far as financial aid and full- and part-time status are concerned.

Will this affect my financial aid?

Not usually. Almost all developmental courses are covered by financial aid. However, there are exceptions and limits. Talk to the Office of Financial Aid for details.

Why am I in a developmental course?

Most students need to take a developmental course, either in Academic Literacy or Math.  College-level courses are academically rigorous and challenging, and you may need a review to prepare for them.  Developmental courses help you do that because they focus on the information and skills you need to be successful in college-level courses.  Developmental courses are challenging courses that offer students a lot of support as they prepare for success in college-level courses.

Do I have to take these classes?

Yes. If you place into a developmental course, you are required to take each of these courses beginning with your first semester at CCBC. You must continue to enroll in developmental courses each semester until you are eligible to enroll in college-level courses.

What do I have to take to get to college level?

This answer changes depending on your placement levels in Academic Literacy and math. We strongly recommend that all students in developmental courses work closely with academic advisors and ACDV 101 instructors to make sure they take the right courses in the right order.

Is there a way I can get to college level faster?

Yes! Our Developmental program is accelerated, so students start earning college credits as quickly as possible.  Come talk to an academic advisor.

What happens if I don't pass one of my developmental classes?

You can take the class a second time. BUT, there are some things you need to know.
  • There is a limit to the number of developmental classes financial aid will cover. For more information, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.
  • If you aren’t successful on your second try, you’ll be required to come in to request permission to take the class again. To request permission, you'll need to demonstrate how you plan to be successful during your third try.  We want to make sure you succeed in the future.