Prerequisite Requirements

Course Prerequisites

A prerequisite is a course you must complete before enrolling in a second course. In some cases, prerequisite courses may be taken concurrently. Unless otherwise indicated, “successful completion” of a prerequisite course means that you have earned a 2.0 grade or higher.

Course prerequisites are listed in course descriptions found in the college’s Catalog. You can also access the description from within self-service registration by clicking on the Course Reference Number (CRN) after performing a search for the class you wish to take.

Course Placement Testing

Academic placement is required for all new students who are pursuing a degree or certificate at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. The college now offers Guided Self-Placement where students complete a self-evaluation in reading, writing and math on their own and receive feedback to make a responsible choice about class placements.

After the self-evaluations are completed, students should meet with a counselor or advisor for assistance in making an informed decision on course placement. Appointments with a counselor or advisor may be scheduled with Student Development Services by calling 269.488.4040. If you feel that the recommended courses do not accurately reflect your abilities, or if you'd like a more comprehensive evaluation of your skills, you have the option to take a placement test. This can help ensure you're placed in the most appropriate level courses for your current abilities. More information about placement testing can be found at the Placement Testing webpage.

Waivers for Completion of Equivalent Prerequisite Courses

Any student attempting to enroll in a class that requires a specific prerequisite course may request a waiver of that requirement if an equivalent prerequisite course has been completed with a grade of 2.0/C or better. Submit a Prerequisite Waiver Request form to Student Development Services (SDS) for review by your advisor or counselor. If the equivalent course was completed at another college or university, you must attach your transcript (unofficial transcripts are accepted).

Prerequisite Enforcement After Grades are Issued

Students currently attending a course that is a required prerequisite for another course are allowed to pre-enroll for the second course. If you do not pass the prerequisite course with at least a 2.0 grade, you will automatically be dropped from the second course before the semester begins. For example, if you are taking BIO 115 in the Fall semester, you may register to take BIO 215 during the following Winter semester. If at the end of the Fall semester you have not completed the prerequisite course or you have earned a grade lower than 2.0 in BIO 115, you will be dropped from the Winter BIO 215 course. If you have been dropped from a class due to prerequisite enforcement and have questions, contact your advisor or counselor.

Financial aid students who are dropped from a class are strongly encouraged to consult with the Student Financial Services office as the drop may affect your financial aid status. You can contact Student Financial Services at (269) 488-4340 or by emailing finaid@kvcc.edu.