College History


McGee2009In the early years, the college offered a limited number of vocational technical courses such as marine diesel, small engine repair, air conditioning and heating, and electrical. Today, the college features a wide range of educational, technical and vocational programs.

Students can pursue the following programs leading to a certificate, diploma or associate degree:  Aquaculture, Basic Law Enforcement, Business Administration, Construction Trades, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Culinary Technology, Early Childhood Associate/Teacher Associate, Electrical/Electronics, Emergency Medical/Paramedic, Esthetics, Fine Arts, Firefighter Training, Information Systems, Internet Technologies, Hotel and Restaurant Management, Marine Propulsion, Office Systems Technology, Paralegal Technology, Photographic Technology, Therapeutic Massage, Welding, and a wide range of Health Science programs.

The college transfer curriculum is one of the most popular programs, and enables students to obtain an associate in arts or associate in science degree and transfer to a four-year institution. Additionally, the college offers a variety of Corporate and Community Education courses to provide general education opportunities for upgrading job skills, gaining certification, and satisfying personal interests. These courses are offered on a continual basis, and include several pre-licensing courses, computer applications, desktop publishing, First Aid/CPR, emergency medical technician certification, and a variety of Basic Skills courses such as English as a second language.

The student body consists of approximately 1,900 curriculum and 4,500 continuing education students, reflecting a rich diversity of age, income, ethnicity and educational background.

Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges  since 1974, the college has 151 full-time and 239 part-time employees who provide quality education, training, and support. Using innovative means of instruction  and hybrid online courses, the college is committed to creating an accessible, positive learning environment.

As a central part of the community, the college also works closely with numerous community agencies such as the Chamber of Commerce, Carteret County Tourism Development Bureau Board and the Economic Development Council to encourage economic growth in the area. One of the college’s newest programs includes Hospitality Management training to support the area’s growing hospitality and tourism industry.