It is TSTC's policy to provide students with resources to achieve their educational and career goals. TSTC Waco provides developmental studies for students who need assistance with basic academic skills, according to the Institutional Developmental Education Plan filed with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. Developmental studies services include preparation for state-mandated testing, diagnostic testing of students' basic skill levels, and training in the basic skills of reading, writing, and mathematics for each program's entry-level standards and other areas requested by department chairpersons.

Developmental education courses are not counted as credit toward graduation. However, they are used along with the credit courses for determining course load and satisfactory academic progress for financial aid.