Located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Coastal Carolina Community College has become a vital institution for higher education and workforce training in the southeastern region of the state. Serving a diverse population of students, the college offers a wide variety of programs that cater to both academic advancement and career development. Whether someone is seeking to earn an associate degree, prepare for transfer to a four-year university, or gain technical skills for immediate employment, Carolina Coastal Community College provides flexible and affordable opportunities designed to meet local and regional needs.
Overview of Coastal Carolina Community College
Coastal Carolina Community College (CCCC) is part of the North Carolina Community College System. Founded in 1965, the college has grown steadily over the decades, adapting its curriculum and resources to match the demands of a changing job market and student population. The campus is centrally located in Onslow County, providing accessible education to military personnel from nearby Camp Lejeune, local residents, and adult learners alike.
The college’s mission emphasizes student success, community engagement, and economic development. By partnering with local businesses, industries, and educational institutions, CCCC plays a central role in preparing students for the workforce and contributing to the area’s overall growth.
Academic Programs and Degrees
Coastal Carolina Community College offers a wide range of academic pathways that are tailored to students’ goals and interests. These include:
- Associate in Arts (AA) Ideal for students planning to transfer to a four-year college in fields such as liberal arts, education, or social sciences.
- Associate in Science (AS) Focuses on mathematics, sciences, and technology, preparing students for further study in STEM fields.
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS) A career-oriented degree that prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce in areas like healthcare, business, and information technology.
- Diploma and Certificate Programs Shorter programs designed to build specific job skills in fields like welding, cosmetology, criminal justice, and automotive systems.
These academic offerings reflect the college’s commitment to versatility and responsiveness to evolving career demands. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, supportive faculty, and a curriculum designed to prepare them either for further education or immediate employment.
Support for Military and Veteran Students
With its proximity to Camp Lejeune, Coastal Carolina Community College has established itself as a military-friendly campus. The college provides numerous resources for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. These include flexible scheduling, online and hybrid course options, and dedicated counselors who understand the unique needs of military-affiliated students.
Service members can take advantage of educational benefits such as the GI Bill, Tuition Assistance, and military training evaluations for academic credit. The Military Academic Skills Program (MASP) also helps students strengthen foundational skills in subjects like math and English to meet specific military requirements or prepare for college-level coursework.
Career and Technical Education
Coastal Carolina Community College places a strong emphasis on Career and Technical Education (CTE). These programs are geared toward students who want to enter the workforce quickly with practical, hands-on training. The college collaborates closely with local industries to ensure that CTE graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Popular CTE Programs Include:
- Nursing and Allied Health
- Emergency Medical Science
- Criminal Justice Technology
- Construction Management
- HVAC and Electrical Systems
- Business Administration
Many of these programs include internships, apprenticeships, or work-based learning opportunities, which connect students directly with employers in the community. This approach enhances job placement rates and helps meet workforce needs in the region.
Continuing Education and Workforce Development
Beyond traditional academic programs, Coastal Carolina Community College offers a robust selection of continuing education courses. These non-credit courses are ideal for individuals looking to gain new skills, earn professional certifications, or simply explore personal interests. They include offerings in areas such as real estate, medical billing, notary public training, and truck driving.
The college’s Workforce Development division collaborates with local employers to provide customized training programs. This helps businesses remain competitive while giving workers the opportunity to upskill or reskill in a rapidly changing economy.
Benefits of Continuing Education
- Flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends
- No formal admissions process
- Affordable tuition and sometimes free training programs
- Career advancement and industry certifications
This accessibility makes Coastal Carolina Community College an essential educational partner for learners of all ages and backgrounds.
Student Services and Campus Life
Student success is at the heart of the Coastal Carolina experience. The college provides a range of services that support academic achievement, personal growth, and career planning. From tutoring and academic advising to counseling and financial aid support, students are guided every step of the way.
Although primarily a commuter campus, CCCC offers opportunities for student involvement through clubs, honor societies, and campus events. The Student Government Association (SGA) helps coordinate activities, advocate for student needs, and promote leadership development.
Support Services Include:
- Career Services and Job Placement Assistance
- Disability Support Services
- Veteran Services
- Financial Aid Counseling
- Online Learning Support
These comprehensive resources ensure that students not only succeed in the classroom but also feel part of a supportive learning environment.
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Coastal Carolina Community College maintains strong relationships with local organizations, schools, and employers to better serve the needs of the community. Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to earn college credit before graduation, saving time and money on future degrees. In addition, the college works with local employers through advisory committees to ensure that programs remain relevant and aligned with workforce demands.
Community engagement also includes cultural events, job fairs, and open houses that welcome the public onto campus. These initiatives help foster a positive relationship between the college and the region it serves.
Affordability and Financial Aid
Affordability is one of the key strengths of Coastal Carolina Community College. Tuition rates are significantly lower than those at four-year universities, making higher education accessible to a broader range of students. The college participates in federal and state financial aid programs and also offers institutional scholarships and grants to eligible students.
Financial aid advisors assist students in navigating applications for Pell Grants, work-study opportunities, and veteran benefits. Payment plans and emergency assistance options are also available for those who need extra support.
Carolina Coastal Community College represents the best of what community colleges can offer affordable education, flexible pathways, strong community ties, and a commitment to student success. Whether a student’s goal is to enter the workforce, transfer to a four-year institution, or gain new skills for personal growth, CCCC offers the tools and support needed to achieve it. With a wide range of programs, comprehensive student services, and ongoing partnerships with the military and local industries, the college continues to be a cornerstone of opportunity and progress in southeastern North Carolina.
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