BCCC programs are aimed at community’s needs | Eastern NC Now

Press Release:

    Washington, NC     Beaufort County Community College's administrators and Board of Trustees put the needs of the community first and foremost when deciding what programs and classes the college will offer.

    "We look at community need within our service area," says Dr. Crystal Ange, Vice President of Academics. "For example, about three years ago we had several members of the community - farmers and agricultural businesses - who asked whether we could offer an Agribusiness program. So we were tasked with conducting an employment study to see whether there would be jobs available for graduates of the program, surveying local high schools and businesses to gauge interest, and developing a plan. And we are now able to offer that program."

    The employment study is a key aspect, as the North Carolina Community College System must approve new programs, and the college must be able to show that there is a need in the community to be served. There is also a fiscal component, as the equipment, supplies, instruction and facility requirements must be taken into account as well.

    It usually take a year or more for a Curriculum program to be implemented. For Continuing Education programs, the considerations are similar, but the process occurs more quickly.

    "We decide what programs to offer based on feedback from workforce development groups, economic development groups and community members," says Stacey Gerard, Vice President of Continuing Education. "We might have an employer who needs an OSHA certification class. Or it might be a resident asking about a dog obedience class. We'll find an instructor, put it on our schedule, advertise it, and if there are enough registrations, we'll hold the class."

    Whether it's a Curriculum program, Continuing Education or Occupational Extension, if there aren't enough students, graduates or job placements to justify the cost of instruction, equipment and supplies, the college may also have to consider dropping a program, either permanently or temporarily.

    Ultimately, the decision about what programs BCCC should offer comes down to the region's needs and whether there is sufficient demand within the labor market for students to find jobs after completing the program.

    Contact: Jules Norwood
         Public Relations Coordinator

    Beaufort County Community College

     (252) 940-6387  •  Jules.Norwood@BeaufortCCC.edu

    Beaufort County Community College is a public, comprehensive community college committed to providing accessible and affordable quality education, effective teaching, relevant training, and lifelong learning opportunities for the people served by the College.