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Trades and
Certificates
Explore specialized technical training and professional certifications that provide fast-tracked entry into high-demand careers in North Carolina's evolving workforce.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED (most programs)
- Minimum age requirements (varies by trade)
- Placement testing for certain technical colleges
Typical Completion Time
- Certificates: 6 months to 1 year
- Diplomas: 1 to 2 years
- Apprenticeships: 1 to 4 years of paid training
Funding Options
- NC Longleaf Commitment Grant
- Federal Pell Grants (FAFSA)
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds
- Employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement
Career Opportunities
- HVAC Technician, Electrician, or Plumber
- Dental Assistant or Pharmacy Technician
- IT Support Specialist or Cybersecurity Analyst
- Welder or CNC Machinist
North Carolina Resources
- NC Community College System (NCCCS)
- ApprenticeshipNC
- CFNC.org (College Foundation of North Carolina)
- NCWorks Online
Associate Degrees
A two-year degree program that provides foundational knowledge and technical skills, often serving as a bridge to a four-year university or immediate career entry.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED equivalency
- Application to a North Carolina Community College
- Placement testing or transcript review
Typical Completion Time
- 2 years (Full-time)
- 3-4 years (Part-time)
Funding Options
- FAFSA Federal Grants
- NC Longleaf Commitment Grant
- Local Community College Scholarships
Career Opportunities
- Registered Nurse (ADN)
- Web Developer
- Paralegal Services
- Dental Hygienist
North Carolina Resources
- NC Community College System (NCCCS)
- College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC)
- NC Works Career Centers
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