Courses in College

Increasing numbers of students are enrolling in two-year community college programs, yet only one-third will graduate with their degrees. Naturally, there are multifaceted reasons for the high dropout rate, but some reports cite the students’ struggle with math courses as playing a major role, as outlined by WNYC.

Most community colleges require that students take three placement tests before registering for classes. The placement tests include a basic math section, a reading comprehension section, and a writing composition section.

Approximately half of prospective community college students struggle with the math placement test and, thus, require at least one remedial math class. Even at community colleges, most degrees require successfully completing several college-level math classes, and many students struggle to make the grade. Lowering the community college dropout rate partly hinges on preparing students for math success.

This video offers a look at Portland Community College's math literacy program.

Math Placement Tests: How to Improve Your Score

Scoring well on the math placement test can save time, effort, and money in the long term. In most cases, remedial math classes don’t count towards degree requirements; thus, making the score on placement tests can save you tuition fees. The best way to prepare for the math placement test is to get the gray matter working again – especially if a lot of time has elapsed since

The reports and statistics pertaining to current high school dropout rates make for shocking reading. Over 7,200 children drop out of high school on a daily basis, creating over 1.3 million new dropouts annually, according to a Census data review by the Daily Beast. Of course, vocational training and blue-collar jobs are hypothetical alternatives for these teenagers, but with the economy in shambles, entry-level jobs are few and far between. K16 Bridge Plan

The impacts of this educational crisis are best exemplified in cities like Detroit, where only 25% of students graduate with a high school diploma. The Detroit area suffers from high unemployment rates, low income, soaring crime rates, negligible social services, and a generally poorer quality of life – which give high school dropouts few opportunities.

However, community colleges may soon be the savior of high school graduation rates. Innovative new community college programs have been implemented in places like North Carolina, Texas, and California to keep students in high school until they graduate, as well as to help find the places in higher education thereafter.

This video from the National Center for Education Statistics reports on declining high school dropout rates.

The Money Incentive: Community Colleges and Scholarship Programs

Cost is one of the major hurdles associated with higher education in disadvantaged areas. Many students assume that even if they do complete high school,

Hey there! With more and more people signing up for community college, the usual 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. class schedule isn't cutting it anymore. Some colleges are getting pretty creative with their class times to keep up with all the new students. Believe it or not, some students are even hitting the books at midnight!

Midnight is the New 8 AM

Diverse Issues in Higher Education reports that colleges across the country have experienced record enrollment rates for both new and returning students. As the economy forces many workers to retrain their skills, many community colleges nearly burst at the seams.

Coping with such pressures, Bunker Hill Community College in Boston sets a new example for college reform. Bunker Hill is the first college in the country to open its doors for midnight courses. According to reports, Bunker Hill has begun “Offering two classes on the graveyard shift to accommodate an unprecedented boost in enrollment attributed to the struggling economy as people look to augment their job skills without paying the tuition costs of more expensive schools.”

With several night courses offered at the start of the 2009 semester, Bunker Hill students can enroll in classes such as Principals of Psychology or College Writing, which both run from 11:45 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. throughout the semester.

These new midnight options were supported by many faculty leaders and students, who argued that the modern student has too many responsibilities to fit into traditional community

Is your voice an instrument? Whether you are interested in singing professionally or for pleasure, your local community college may be the perfect venue for fine-tuning your vocal skills. While many community colleges provide students with music classes, some campuses have added depth to their curriculum by offering classes that specifically focus on the art of singing. Consider adding a singing course as an elective or even declaring singing as your major, which could help you ultimately earn an associate’s degree in applied arts or sciences.

The benefits of singing in a choral ensemble

Singing in a choral ensemble or pursuing solo singing can be immensely rewarding experiences for individuals looking to develop their vocal skills and explore their passion for music. Participating in a choral ensemble offers numerous benefits, including learning from experienced instructors, developing harmonizing skills, and cultivating teamwork and collaboration. Singing in a group setting also allows individuals to improve their vocal technique, breath control, and pitch accuracy while fostering a deep sense of community and camaraderie with fellow singers. On the other hand, solo singing provides a platform for individuals to showcase their unique vocal abilities and express their individuality. It encourages personal growth, self-confidence, and artistic exploration.

This video offers a look at Shoreline Community College's Vocal Ensemble.

In today's digital age, promoting oneself as a singer through various social media platforms, such as TikTok, has become

Are you interested in a new hobby that will open the sea's mysteries? Are you hoping to enrich your college experience with a unique and entertaining course? Whether you're interested in learning to scuba dive for recreational or educational reasons, community colleges across the country are qualified to provide students with the necessary skills, training, and practice to become certified divers. These courses are generally open to registered students and adult community members pursuing continuing education.

Indeed, scuba diving courses can be a fun and engaging opportunity to explore new underwater worlds!

How to Get Certified to Scuba Dive

Scuba divers must obtain a certification card to prove they completed a reputable training course. The most common certification agencies are PADI, NAUI, YMCA, SSI, and other local institutions. Often, community college campuses provide certification courses through one of these leading agencies.

The most common certification venue when enrolling in a scuba training class is an “open w" or” scuba" class. Once you complete this primary scuba course, you must pass all the tests and required dives before receiving official certification. Upon earning a certification card, a scuba diver never needs to re-enroll for training, but once this step is completed, you can maintain your certification status for life!

Most scuba courses require that all participants be in healthy physical shape. Participants should be able to swim at least 200 yards and float or tread water for at least 10 minutes without stopping. In addition to these standards,