Developmental Education
Developmental Mathematics
The STeM Department provides a program for students who aspire to a college education, but do not yet have the mathematics skills necessary for college-level work. Two levels are offered: Introductory Algebra and Intermediate Algebra. Students who do not wish to pursue a STeM field may take Basic College Mathematics and Fundamentals of Mathematics in place of 088 and 098. Both sequences are also offered in accelerated formats.
Offered every Fall, Spring, and Summer semester.
Math Transition Program
A collaborative initiative between the Public School System (PSS) and CMI to strengthen students’ mathematical readiness for college-level coursework, targeting high school students in their final year. It aims to:
- Reduce the need for developmental math placement at CMI
- Improve student readiness for college-level mathematics
- Increase student success and retention in STEM-related pathways
Developmental English
Helps students develop the English language and student engagement skills necessary for a successful college experience. Two levels focus on Reading & Writing and Listening & Speaking: Level 2 ( & ) and Level 3 ( & ).
| Format | Fall / Spring | Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Regular | 16 weeks | 8 weeks |
| Accelerated | 8 weeks | 4 weeks |
First Year Experience is a general education requirement for all students, introducing campus resources, degree programs and career/transfer options, effective communication, successful student habits, and service learning.
Student support: Developmental Education faculty serve as academic advisors and offer walk-in academic coaching, one-on-one or in small groups.
English Bridge Program (EB)
Developed with PSS and offered at the senior level in RMI public schools to increase placements at credit level. The EB began in AY2025–2026 and is now in Cycle 2.
WAVES — Workforce, Adult, and Vocational Education Services
The mission of WAVES is to provide quality Adult Basic Education (ABE) for a high school equivalency and non-credit Career/Technical Education (CTE) so that students acquire the skills to become self-sufficient and participate effectively as productive citizens. Workforce development training is offered to meet the needs of employers, along with training for unemployed young people through the Youth Corps program.
Non-Credit Programs
Adult Basic Education & Adult High School
High School Equivalency Programs
Students can earn an RMI High School Equivalency Diploma through Foundational Adult Basic Education (Levels 1 & 2) and the Adult High School Program (Levels 3, 4 & 5). Placement is by the CMI ABE Placement Test, given once all admission requirements are submitted (at least 10 days before the test date).
| ABE placement score | Placement |
|---|---|
| 59% or below | Level 1 |
| 60–69% | Level 2 |
| 70–79% | Level 3 |
| 80–100% | Level 4 |
Adult High School
Helps adults aged 17 and older prepare for gainful employment and/or transition to postsecondary career and technical education, earning credits toward a diploma. Eligibility: placement into at least Level 3 (score 70–79).
It offers a second chance to earn a recognized high school credential, strengthens literacy, numeracy and critical thinking, and builds workplace skills so learners are College and Career Ready. All ABE/AHS students take mathematics and language every semester; Adult High School students also complete science, social science, and practical electives.
Possible practical electives: Automotive Technology Fundamentals I & II · Clothing and Textiles I & II · Computer Fundamentals I & II · Fundamentals of Woodworking I & II · Introduction to Bookkeeping I & II.
Example Pathway to Completion
Level 1
- REA 010 Reading Level 1
- WRI 010 Writing Level 1
- MATH 010 Basic Mathematics
Level 2
- REA 020 Reading Level 2
- WRI 020 Writing Level 2
- MATH 020 Pre-Algebra I
Level 3
- ENG 053 Lang. Arts & Literacy
- MATH 050 Geometry
- SCI 051 Earth Science
- SOC 051 Pacific History
- OTE 050 Office Technology
- Marshallese Language
Level 4
- MATH 051 Algebra I
- ENG 053 Eng. Lang. Arts & Lit.
- SCI 052 Biology
- SOC 052 Gov’t Systems in the Pacific
- Student Success Course
- Practical Elective I
Level 5
- MATH 052 Algebra II
- ENG 055 Fundamentals of Communication
- SOC 053 Introduction to Geography
- Practical Elective II
- Practicum Course
ABE and Adult High School course descriptions are listed at the end of the Course Descriptions tab. These courses do not earn college credits.
Source: College of the Marshall Islands Academic Catalog 2026–2027, pages 87–193 (Meta Majors, Programs of Study, General Education, Developmental & Non-Credit Programs, Course Offerings). Refer to the official catalog and your faculty adviser for binding requirements.