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North Central State College North Central State College

Adult Learning

Build Momentum

Adults from various backgrounds come to North Central State College to envision a better future, improve their ability to think creatively and critically, and gain practical experience to achieve their dreams and desired careers.

There are many reasons why adult learners choose NC State. Some were caught up in life after high school and didn’t immediately pursue college. Others had to pause their college education due to responsibilities like work, family, parenting, caregiving, or military duty. Some seek to upgrade their job skills, switch careers, or follow a passion. No matter your motivation, whether it’s your first time here or you’re returning, you’re in the right place. Welcome to NC State.

  • Most adult learners at NC State experience a return on investment immediately—while they are going through the college experience. Many get internships and complete courses that lead to professional certificates that many employers reward with an increase in pay and position. You might also earn multiple certificates (called “stacked” certificates) as you work toward a two-year associate’s degree, a four-year bachelor’s degree, and more. Many of our certificate programs are eligible for financial aid.

    In addition, we have labor-market data about your earning potential with local employers. With certificates and degrees from NC State, you will experience a long-term return on investment as well. Most of our courses are transferrable to other colleges and universities, which means you’ll spend less time and money as you pursue more education and career advancement.

  • Many adult learners juggle a number of commitments and responsibilities, including family, work, and college classes. Many also participate in a faith community and volunteer for charitable organizations. Adult learners often have lives full of rich experiences, which can feel a bit complex and overwhelming at times. That’s why NC State provides you with solid relationships. Each student has access to advisors and other “go-to” people who provide guidance and support (e.g., success coaches, academic liaisons, tutors).

    We also offer options for evening, online, and on-campus classes and opportunities to expand your personal and professional networks through study groups, student organizations, and work experiences in the community. For those who need help with basic needs like food, clothing, housing, medicine, and transportation, we have on-campus resources like a food pantry, childcare services, counseling services, and transportation subsidies. We also provide referrals to off-campus community services that can help you through a job loss or layoff, a reduction in income, a housing crisis, and emergency repairs for your car.

  • The College provides qualified North Central State College students with academic, financial need, and general scholarships for college-related expenses. There are scholarships available for new and current students as well as full-time and part-time students.

    Financial need is a specific qualifier for some scholarships. For an applicant to be considered for a scholarship based on financial need, many require FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) submission. FAFSAs are submitted online at www.studentaid.gov .

    Please visit our Grants and Scholarships for more information on scholarships available.

  • Believe in the power of your mind and in your ability to learn, change, and grow. Develop relationships with advisors, staff, faculty, and fellow students. Ask a lot of questions. Tell us the story of your current circumstances and dreams. Collaborate with us to develop your plan for academic, financial, and career success. And be positive and persistent. We can help. According to the Adult Learner 360 Student Survey (AL-360), we score very high on the level of support that we provide to students, so take advantage of this. Think of this website as your gateway for success and a tool for managing your NC State experience.