Academic Catalog

Courses in High School Equivalency (Non Credit)

CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY

The High School Equivalency (Non-Credit) Certificate of Competency at Cerritos College is designed to strengthen students' foundational skills and prepare them for success in completing a High School Equivalency certificate or diploma. This certificate program provides comprehensive instruction in essential academic areas, including mathematics, writing, reading, and other core subjects for passing the GED/HiSET exams or credit recovery courses. These courses assess proficiency in social studies, science, reading, writing, and math, ensuring students are fully prepared for the challenges of the exams.

In today’s competitive workforce, obtaining a high school diploma or equivalency is critical for securing many employment opportunities and advancing into college-level programs. This certificate program equips students with the academic skills to succeed in the workforce and higher education. By focusing on literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving, the curriculum helps students develop essential life skills invaluable for career advancement and personal growth.

Upon completing this certificate, students will be well-prepared to pursue high school equivalency certification and open doors to various academic and career pathways. This program ensures students are better equipped to meet the demands of an ever-evolving job market, positioning them for long-term success. Whether preparing for further education or seeking stable employment, the High School Equivalency (Non-Credit Certificate of Competency ) provides the tools to achieve their academic and career goals.

(Formerly known as Courses in GED Test Preparation  in English - Certificate of Completion)

Program Student Learning Outcomes

  • HSE (High School Equivalency) students will demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in writing by constructing a persuasive essay.
  • HSE (High School Equivalency) students will analyze and interpret U.S. history and functions of government through non-fiction reading.
  • HSE (High School Equivalency) students will apply number sense and operations to solve math word problems.

Program Requirements

Code Number Course Title Units
Option 1:
Students can select from any offered courses to complete the required 216 hours for the certificate
AED 48.05College English Skills0.0
AED 49.01Preparatory Math (108 hours)0.0
AED CR1AHigh School Integrated Math 1A0.0
AED CR1BHigh School Integrated Math 1B0.0
AED CR2AHS Integrated Math 2A0.0
AED CR2BHigh School Integrated Math 2B0.0
AED CR3AHigh School Biology A0.0
AED CR3BHigh School Biology B0.0
AED CR4AHigh School Chemistry A0.0
AED CR4BHigh School Chemistry B0.0
AED CR5AHigh School Spanish 2A0.0
AED CR5BHigh School Spanish 2B0.0
AED CR6AHigh School Art and Creative Expression 6A0.0
AED CR6BHigh School Art and Creative Expression 6B0.0
AED CR7AHigh School English A0.0
AED CR7BHigh School English B0.0
AED CR8AHigh School Spanish 1A0.0
AED CR8BHigh School Spanish 1B0.0
AED CR9AHigh School English 2A0.0
AED CR9BHigh School English 2B0.0
AED CR10AHigh School English 3A0.0
AED CR10BHigh School English 3B0.0
AED CR11AHigh School U.S. History A0.0
AED CR11BHigh School U.S. History B0.0
AED CR12AHigh School World History A0.0
AED CR12BHigh School World History B0.0
AED CR13AHigh School Algebra 2A0.0
AED CR13BHigh School Algebra 2B0.0
AED CR14AAlgebra I A0.0
AED CR14BAlgebra I B0.0
AED CR15AGeometry A0.0
AED CR15BGeometry B0.0
AED CR16AHigh School Physics A0.0
AED CR16BHigh School Physics B0.0
AED CR17AHigh School Living Earth / Earth & Life Science A0.0
AED CR17BHigh School Living Earth / Earth & Life Science B0.0
AED CR18AHigh School American Government A0.0
AED CR18BHigh School American Government B0.0
AED CR19AHigh School Economics A0.0
AED CR19BHigh School Economics B0.0
Total units for Option 1: 216 hours
Option 2:
AED 42.12GED Preparation-A (108 hours)0.0
AED 42.13Ged Preparation-B (108 hours)0.0
Total Hours for Option 2: 216 hours
Recommended Electives
AED 48.05College English Skills (108 hours)0.0
AED 49.01Preparatory Math (108 hours)0.0

This table outlines the Division/Department Requirements and Electives for the High School Equivalency (Non-Credit) Certificate of Competency at Cerritos College.  For option 1, students can select from any offered courses to complete the required 216 hours for the certificate. For option 2, students must complete the required courses in GED Preparation. They may choose from various electives to enhance their academic skills in English, math, science, history, and foreign languages. The total number of hours for division requirements is 216 hours, with additional elective hours available for further academic development.

Career Opportunities  

In today’s workforce, a GED certificate or high school diploma is essential for accessing many entry-level and career advancement opportunities. Employers across a wide range of industries require a high school equivalency to consider candidates for positions, and possessing a GED can open doors to a variety of fields. Furthermore, the foundational skills gained through this program—such as literacy, math, and critical thinking—are vital for maintaining sustainable wage jobs and navigating an increasingly complex and competitive job market. This certificate not only helps students achieve their educational goals but also equips them with the essential skills needed for long-term career success and stability.

Career Pathways  

The Cerritos College High School Equivalency (Non-Credit Certificate of Competency) courses are designed to help students prepare for the GED/HiSET examinations, which cover key subjects including social studies, science, English, and math. Successfully completing the certificate will enable students to earn a high school equivalency certificate, a crucial step for pursuing higher education or entering the workforce. In addition to preparing for the GED/HiSET exams, students have the opportunity to participate in a **credit recovery program**, which allows them to work toward completing their high school diploma through additional coursework. By completing this certificate, students can open the door to further academic opportunities, vocational training, or career paths that require a high school diploma or equivalent.