Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) provides the opportunity for students in Durham to personalize and accelerate their learning by earning course credit through a demonstration of course material mastery without the requirement of a specific seat time. Students are required to complete a two-phase process in order to demonstrate command of the course material at a level that demonstrates a deep understanding of the content standards and the ability to apply his or her knowledge of the material.
The process for CDM includes an online application, Phase I assessment, and Phase II artifact and/or performance assessment. Students will be required to demonstrate mastery at a superior level, 90% or greater, at both phases.
Access to the CDM process is open to all NC public school students for courses in grades 9-12 and high school courses offered in grades 6-8, except for the following:
English Language Learner (ELL) courses
Healthful Living required courses
AP/IB courses, CTE courses that are work-based (coop, internship, apprenticeship); require a clinical setting (ProStart, Early Childhood Education I/II, and Nursing Fundamentals); and/or Advanced Studies
Testing Information for 2024-2025
Testing Information for 2024-2025
Spring 2025 Testing Window
Application window will open January 9th.
Applications can be submitted between January 9th and February 3rd at 11:59 p.m.
Spring CDM Application will become active on January 9th.
Testing will occur from February 18 - March 3.
Note: Exact testing dates will be confirmed once the application window closes.
Summer 2025 Testing Window
Applications can be submitted between April 14th and May 14th at 11:59 p.m.
Summer CDM Application will become active on April 14th.
Testing will occur between July 18 - 31
Note: Exact testing dates will be confirmed once the application window closes.
For inquiries regarding Credit By Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) for students enrolled in Durham Public Schools, please contact:
Laura Parrott, Director of Advanced Academics
For inquiries regarding CDM and CTE courses, please contact:
Darian Harris, CTE Director at:
Email Darian Harris or 919-560-2682 ext. 22772
More questions? See our FAQs here.