GED skills classes and the National External Diploma Program®
There are many reasons to earn your diploma, including employability and earning potential. Whether it’s been a few years or a few decades since you’ve been in a classroom setting, CCBC can help.
CCBC offers two options for earning your high school diploma: the General Education Development (GED) preparation classes and the National External Diploma Program (NEDP). You can choose in-person or online learning options.
You must be at least 18 years of age and officially withdrawn from high school to enroll in these programs. All students interested in these programs are required to attend an orientation and assessment session. Read on to consider the best option for you.
The General Education Development (GED) preparation courses are for adults who are preparing to take the official GED® Exam and need to learn or review skills to earn their high school diploma. Classes focus on reading, writing, math and test-taking skills. CCBC will customize this program to your needs. No matter your skill level, you will have an opportunity to build all the skills you will need to pass the GED® Exam.
The National External Diploma Program (NEDP) is an option for more mature adults with significant life experience who can demonstrate academic competencies and life skills. There is no classroom instruction involved. Successful participants earn a Maryland High School Diploma by developing an online portfolio which showcases mastery of the required skills. This option requires the demonstration of both academic and functional life skills, including skills related to occupational preparedness.
average increase in earnings after completing high school.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics "Education pays" 2025.
GED Prep and NEDP students served at CCBC in 2025.
Nearly all U.S. colleges accept applicants who have a GED diploma.
Source: BestColleges.com
To register for a program, follow these steps:
Lisa Parker turned to CCBC to earn her high school diploma later in life: "The confidence comes with moving forward."
For general inquiries about GED, NEDP or other basic education programs.