Empower Your Future with Skill UP Mississippi
Skill UP Mississippi, an initiative of the Office of Adult Education, helps individuals gain the skills and credentials needed for career success. Through programs such as Smart Start, MIBEST, and High School Equivalency classes, adult education strengthens Mississippi’s workforce and supports a thriving state economy.
Adult education programs focus on building essential skills in math, reading, writing, communication, teamwork, and computer literacy—all vital for today’s workplaces and higher-education opportunities.
Benefits of Adult Education
Adult education programs help Mississippians:
- Earn a High School Equivalency credential
- Build the academic and digital skills required for high-demand jobs
- Prepare for postsecondary education and workforce training
- Access supportive advising and career guidance
- Strengthen employment prospects and earning potential
Adult education also supports workforce and economic development by helping employers build a skilled talent pipeline.
High School Equivalency (HSE) Classes
Mississippi offers free HSE classes for individuals age 16 and older who are not enrolled in school. These classes, available through community colleges and adult education programs statewide, provide a supportive, flexible path to success.
Earning your High School Equivalency Diploma can open doors to better jobs and college opportunities. Mississippi recognizes three assessments and one state-approved option to demonstrate high school equivalency skills.
English Language Acquisition
These classes help English language learners improve their skills in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. Students can progress toward a high school diploma or an equivalent credential while gaining confidence in English communication.
Integrated Education & Training (IET)
IET programs combine high school equivalency instruction with workforce training for specific occupations—allowing students to develop academic and technical skills at the same time.
Workforce Preparation
The Smart Start Pathway Course, eligible for college credit, builds the foundational skills needed for career readiness. Students learn to communicate effectively, practice professional work habits, and explore in-demand Mississippi jobs.
Smart Start participants also prepare for the WorkKeys Assessment in Applied Math, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents—earning the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), a credential recognized by employers nationwide.
National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
Nearly 3,000 Mississippi employers value the NCRC when hiring. Since 2015, more than 8,500 adult education graduates have earned this certificate, proving they have the skills needed to succeed in the workforce.