National External Diploma Program (NEDP)

Program Description

This program is a Maryland State-approved method to earn a high school diploma. Very similar to an assessment of prior learning process, this program allows adults to demonstrate essential academic competencies, applying their knowledge and life experiences toward earning their high school diploma rather than attending class and successfully completing the GED exam. Each participant works toward a Maryland State High School Diploma by demonstrating academic skills in reading, writing, mathematics, oral communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication technology within eight competency areas and must demonstrate a career/personal skill or readiness for transition to college or training. Participants are expected to meet with an assessor to develop a web-based/electronic portfolio which demonstrates that they have acquired the skills required to be awarded a Maryland High School Diploma.

The NEDP® assessors/advisors are available by appointment only at CCBC Catonsville and CCBC Essex.

Program Outcomes

As they progress through the skill levels, participants will demonstrate their educational skills in reading, writing, mathematics, oral communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication technology with 100% mastery of 70 competencies. The goal of this program is for the participant to successfully develop a portfolio that demonstrates they have the necessary skills to be awarded their high school diploma and can transition to post-secondary education and/or workforce training.

Program Credential

Successful Completion:

CCBC Credential:
Students will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript).

External Credential:
Maryland High School Diploma and NEDP® Transcript​

Program Length

Self-Paced - Successful completion usually takes between 4 and 12 months, depending on client commitment and motivation.

Program Requirements

Information & Pre-Screening Assessment Session – Mandatory:

All participants must schedule an appointment for an assessment session by email, gednedp@ccbcmd.edu , or phone, 443-840-3456. Participants must have a 9th-grade skill level and will be assessed to determine their skill levels in reading and math (approximately a 2-hour process).

Requirements:

Students must be 18 years of age; no high school diploma; not enrolled or required to be enrolled in secondary school under State law; able to demonstrate a minimum of 9th-grade skills by pre-testing in math and reading; possess an individualized skill that can be demonstrated through documentation of a current occupation or trade, job skills demonstrated by a current job, a certificate of job training, a current occupational license, military service, or by researching & completing a skills portfolio; must have computer and internet access to complete all assignments for this self-paced/independent study program’s web-based format; must provide Maryland photo ID.

Application Process

Provisional Entry - Prospective participants are required to attend an information and pre-screening assessment session, which includes taking math and reading skills assessments.

Program Course Sequence

Participants are required to meet with an assigned independent assessor/advisor on a regular basis.  They are responsible for completing in-person web-based written and oral assessments at the center locations, and for completing all homework assignments.

** Program supported by Maryland Department of Labor

Program Contact Information

NEDP ^®  Office: 443-840-1284