Adult Education and Literacy
Explore Adult Education and Literacy programs that enhance skills like reading and critical thinking for career readiness and higher income.
Our programs focus on practical, real-world learning to prepare you for employment, financial management, parenting, and navigating today’s society. You’ll build a strong foundation for career training, higher education opportunities, and increased earning potential.
Supportive Learning, Experienced Instructors
With experienced instructors from both the public and private sectors, our classrooms provide a positive, technology-enhanced learning environment. We emphasize collaborative learning and personalized support to help you succeed.
Get Started
Orientation is required before enrollment. Call 910-755-7358 or 910-755-7400 to learn more and schedule your session.
Take the next step toward your future—start your journey today!
Program Options and Elements:

High School Equivalency
The High School Equivalency Program (HSE) prepares adults to take the High School Equivalency Test (GED® or HiSET®). The test assesses academic achievement in the following areas: Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics. Classes for test preparation are available on campus and at other sites within Brunswick County.
In addition to our regular classroom experience, we offer an HSE Honor Boot Camp. This is a fast-track program that allows a student to earn an HSE Diploma in as little as five weeks through a 5-day per week test preparation instruction and HSE testing program. Placement testing at or above 8th-grade level is required in order to qualify for the fast-track program.
Once a student has passed all sections of the High School Equivalency Test, they are awarded the High School Equivalency Diploma, issued by the NC State Board of Community Colleges. There is no charge for the preparation classes; however, there is a one-time fee per section of the test. Get started by completing and submitting the form linked below.

Adult High School Diploma
he Adult High School Program (AHS) is designed to allow students the opportunity to complete a high school credential that mirrors a public school credential. The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. This diploma is issued by BCC through agreements with the NC Department of Public Instruction and the local school board and is the same as those offered through public school systems. There is no cost for the AHS program. Get started by completing and submitting the form linked below.

English as a Second Language
This class will quickly improve the adult learner’s ability to speak, read, listen, and write the English language while integrating civics education and technology skills necessary for navigating contemporary society. Any adult student who does not speak English as their native language can enroll with no fees or tuition costs. Students will have the opportunity to use CASAS listening assessments, Rosetta Stone, All Stars, CUP Ventures Series, video streaming, and other online tools. The program is designed to move adult learners through the six levels of ESL instruction through small group instruction and ongoing assessment. Get started by completing and submitting the form linked below.
How is Adult High School different from High School Equivalency (GED®/HiSET®)?
In the HSE program, you will prepare to take the General Education Development Exam (GED®) or the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET®) to receive a High School Equivalency Diploma from the NC Community College System. In the Adult High School program (AHS), you will take courses to earn credits, complete the NC high school graduation requirements, and receive a traditional high school diploma issued in agreement with the Brunswick County Board of Education and the NC Department of Public Instruction.
Does it cost anything to attend?
There is no charge to attend Adult High School; no tuition and all materials are free.
There is no charge to prepare for the High School Equivalency exam at Brunswick Community College. However, there is a fee for the official tests. Total fees are: $104.00 ($26.00/test) paid directly to GED® or $75.00 ($15.00/test) paid directly to HiSET®.
Do I have to attend classes on campus?
No. We offer in-person, hybrid, virtual, and on-line options. With our multiple options for instruction, you should be able to fit school into your busy schedule.
In-person and hybrid HSE classes are available during the day and evenings on the main campus of Brunswick Community College and at the Leland Center of BCC. We offer day classes at the Southport Center of BCC. In- person, virtual and hybrid classes meet two, three, or four days per week depending on the schedule you choose. On-line HSE classes provide a more flexible schedule and can be completed from home but require the student to have a computer/tablet and internet access. HSE classes can also be completed through correspondence via mail for students who are at the 9th grade level or above.
AHS classes are offered 100% on-line, but students must take all final exams on campus with a proctor.
How can I enroll in the AHS or HSE program?
The first step is to attend an orientation class. This is a three-day Student Success Class which meets for three hours each day. These classes are held on main campus and in Leland. During the three-day class you will receive information about the college and classes, placement test, complete interest and skills profiles that explore career options, and receive information that will assist you with being successful with your post-high school career and education plans. You will also choose an education path, develop a plan for your high school completion and receive your class schedule.
If you are enrolling in the AHS program, you must obtain an official transcript from the last school that you attended or the County School Records Office and bring it unopened to the college on or before your orientation class. Your transcript will be evaluated to determine the credits you have already earned, and the credits you still need to earn your diploma. A transcript is not required for the HSE program.
When can I enroll in the AHS or HSE program?
You can sign up for orientation today! We offer orientation sessions weekly and you may begin either program immediately after attending orientation.
Can I attend if I’m not an adult?
If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must complete a minor application packet. This packet includes a parental release which must include a notarized signature and a school release for anyone who has attended Brunswick County Schools within the previous six months. The packet can be picked up at the college or downloaded from the BCC website. The packet must be completed before you can attend an orientation session. No one under 16 years of age is eligible.
How many credits do I need to graduate from the AHS program?
The number of credits you need for graduation is determined by the state of North Carolina. The total needed is 22 credits. You will receive credit for all classes that you passed in public school. You will complete the remaining credits at Brunswick Community College.
What are the passing scores for the HSE Exams?
GED®: You must score at least 145 out of 200 on each of the four tests, Language Arts (Reading & Writing), Social Studies, Science and Math.
HiSET®: You must score at least 8 out of 20 on each of the 5 individual tests, LA-Reading, LA-Writing, Social Studies, Science and Math, with a minimum of 45 out of 100 combined score on all five tests and a minimum score of 2 out of 6 on the essay.
How do I schedule a campus visit or tour?
To schedule a tour, CLICK HERE.
I am an Adult Education student. How can I request a copy of my transcript?
If you completed the Adult High School program, you will need to fill out the AHS Transcript Request Form.
If you completed the high school equivalency diploma (GED® or HiSet® test path), please reach out to Diploma Sender to obtain a copy of your diploma and/or Transcript.
Need more information?
Contacts:
Jennifer Lester, Director, GEAR Program
Email: | [email protected] | Email: | OneStop Student Services |
Phone: | 910-755-7358 | Phone: | 910-755-7320 |
Address: | Brunswick Community College McLamb Building, D-135PO Box 30Supply, NC 28462 | Address: | Brunswick Community College Building APO Box 30Supply, NC 28462 |
