DURHAM

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

Applications can be submitted between April 14th and May 14th at 11:59 p.m.

• Summer CDM Application: LINKED HERE.

• 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

  • Email Laura Parrott

• Kewanna Riley, Coordinator of Advanced Academics

  • Email Kewanna Riley

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.