Credit by Demonstrated Mastery

  • 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

    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  

    Application window will open April 14th

    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:

    For inquiries regarding CDM and CTE courses, please contact:

    More questions? See our FAQs here.