Programs of Study

The cornerstone of the North Carolina Community College System is the preparation of students for entry into the workforce, for job changes and for career advancement to meet individual goals and regional needs. Central Piedmont offers career programs in a broad range of occupational areas. In addition, community colleges provide students opportunities to transfer to four-year colleges and universities. A commitment to affordability gives students the opportunity to earn a quality education at a fraction of the cost of other local higher education institutions.

To carry out the mission of the college, Central Piedmont offers educational programs among the broad learning domains below:

Career & College Promise

Central Piedmont provides educational pathways for qualified high school students to complete college credits or technical training, tuition-free, while they are in high school, allowing them to get a jump-start on their workplace and college preparation.

College and Career Readiness Programs

A basic premise of the community college movement is the expansion of educational opportunities for all adults, including those facing academic barriers to success. The College and Career Readiness department offers pre-college courses to help students improve their skills before enrolling in college or seeking employment.

A variety of pre-college courses are offered in language arts, math, High School Equivalency preparation, Adult High School, English as a Second Language, and specialized programs that integrate occupational training with academic and job readiness. Programs also are offered at libraries, public schools, and community sites to target select populations, including newly arrived refugees, parents, and the homeless.

College Curriculum Programs of Study

Degree Programs, Diplomas, and Certificates

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degrees
The college offers two-year Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degrees and shorter-term diploma and certificate programs. Graduates of these programs develop marketable employment and college-level academic skills. In some cases, courses within the programs are transferable to colleges and universities. Students may reach other career goals such as updating job skills, career advancement and re-entry into the workforce. In support of these programs, the college continues to form partnerships with business and industry.

College Transfer Programs to Four-Year Institutions
The college provides the first two years of study in the arts and sciences and pre-professional fields for students who wish to transfer to four-year colleges and universities in the Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Science (A.S.), Associate in Fine Arts (A.F.A.), and Associate in Engineering (A.E.) degrees. Students are able to transfer an associate degree to four-year colleges prepared with the background and skills necessary to succeed in further studies.

Corporate and Continuing Education

Corporate and Continuing Education is offered across college disciplines in relevant and popular topic areas through non-credit programming, events and services for individuals and employers. With flexibility in design, content and delivery, Corporate and Continuing Education plays a significant role in meeting the training needs of business and industry. Strong partnerships with governmental and community organizations allow the college to leverage multiple funding sources and to provide targeted and often hands-on skill training and knowledge to ensure a ready and reliable workforce.

For individuals, Corporate and Continuing Education offers year-round programming and services to help adults meet their professional and personal goals, including starting or growing a small business or preparing for retirement. Such a comprehensive selection allows individuals to earn certifications and courses for professional licensure, as well as to pursue recreational and leisure programs.