Basic Skills
YVC’s Basic Skills programs help students prepare to succeed in college level courses and job training by helping students improve their English language, digital literacy, reading, writing, math, study, time management, and teamwork skills.
All persons 16 and over are eligible to enroll in Basic Skills classes, which are offered in the day and evening at the Ellensburg Learning Center, Grandview Campus, La Casa Hogar in Yakima, Sunnyside Learning Center, Toppenish Learning Center, and the Yakima Campus.
Students can enroll in classes for the first six weeks of the quarter, but classes usually fill early in the quarter.
Follow these steps to get started:
- Contact the location you wish to attend to get the current entrance assessment schedule. You do not need an appointment, availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. A listing of locations and their contact information is at http://www.yvcc.edu/BasicSkills
- Bring a check or money order in the amount of $25.00 to the entrance assessment to pay for the quarter tuition fee. If you would like to earn a High School Diploma, you will need to bring an official high school transcript and an unofficial transcript to the entrance assessment.
- Meet with an advisor to select your classes.
Basic Skills Program Outcomes
- Students will develop basic academic skills in reading, writing and math.
- Students will develop basic academic success and employment skills in the areas of teamwork, managing time, knowing how to learn new things, adhering to rules and deadlines and using computer technology.
English as a Second Language/ English Language Acquisition (ESL/ELA)
English as a Second Language/English Language Acquisition (ESL/ELA) classes are for non- or limited English-speaking adults who want to learn English. Classes combine listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with an emphasis on listening and speaking skills. ESL/ELA classes prepare students to continue with their education in English or secure employment. As students develop English language skills they transition into Adult Basic Education classes.
Adult Basic Education (ABE)
Adult Basic Education (ABE) classes prepare students to either earn a high school diploma or take the GED exam. Students can take ABE classes in math, reading, writing, science, history, computers, art, PE and health. Students can also earn high school credit in ABE classes. As students complete their studies in ABE they are ready to either enroll in college level courses or find employment.
High School 21+ (HS21+)
Students who are 21 years of age or older can earn high school credit from ABE courses and earn an adult high school diploma. As students show competency in specific subject areas, YVC will grant high school credit. HS21+ allows individuals to apply previously earned high school credit toward their diploma and then finish the rest of the credits required by taking classes at YVC. Students are not required to pass the high school state assessment or complete a senior project. Students may also be able to earn high school credit based on prior knowledge through training and/or work experience. To earn a high school diploma, students must earn a total of 19-20 high school credits and demonstrate proficiency in English and math. YVC faculty coordinate curriculum to facilitate a smooth student transition from ABE directly into credit-bearing college courses for those students who wish to continue their college education.
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