Adult Students
Northampton Community College

Adult Learning at NCC

Returning to school after time off or starting for the first time can feel intimidating, but at NCC, you’re not alone. As an adult student, you bring maturity and motivation to your studies, and a wealth of professional and personal experiences to the classroom and to your professors and fellow students. This, in addition to your perseverance and knowing who you are and what you want, gives you a real advantage.

 

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Learn on YOUR time

At NCC, you can build your education on your terms. Our online, in-person, part-time, full-time and accelerated learning options make your education work for you, and you don't have to sacrifice quality in the name of flexibility.

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Get Ahead Without Starting Over

Whether you’re starting college for the first time, or returning after some time away, NCC makes the most of your drive, efforts and skills. With our Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) program, you can earn credit for your previous experiences. You can also transfer in up to 75% of credits from any former institution.

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Rise to the Next Level

With our shorter-term workforce training programs, we provide an extensive range of options to further your education, enhance your professional skillset, or re-tool for a new career. Whichever path you choose, we're here to help you reach your goals.



Resources Supporting Our Adult Learners

NCC campuses are designed to support the distinctive needs of adult community college students. We offer discounted rates at our childcare centers, and provide academic advisors who can work with your schedule to find your path to success. 

Join us for an Adult Information Session to learn how NCC can help you reach your goals and connect you with tangible career outcomes when you're finished. We'll cover everything you need to know about the advantages we offer to our adult students including flexible learning options, credit for prior experience, resources and support services, financial aid and more!

 

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NCC embraces the unique qualities military service members bring to our institution and is proud to be a Veterans Administration (VA) approved Institution of Higher Learning.

 

Veterans' Resources

Our Learning Centers offer services like tutoring, writing support and academic coaching to help with goal setting, time management, study strategies and anything else you need to feel confident in your studies. As a student, you may utilize our services at the Bethlehem Campus, Pocono Campus, or online regardless of where you take your classes.

 

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NCC has on-site childcare centers on both our Bethlehem and Pocono Campuses for children ages 6 months-5 years. NCC students receive a discounted rate and placement priority for their children. Learn more

As one of the most affordable colleges in the region, we strive to make an NCC education attainable for everyone. From scholarships to financial aid packages, explore your options when it comes to paying for college. Learn More

Whether you're just beginning, continuing your studies, or nearing the end of your educational journey, NCC is here to support your financial success. Our interest-free payment plan makes it easier to afford your education - potentially saving you thousands in interest and helping you move forward without the weight of student debt.

 

Payment Plans

Our Center for Career Development offers a wealth of resources and services to students and alumni. With our partners in Counseling and Academic Advising, we help students choose a major, explore careers, navigate the job search process and prepare for the world of work. Learn more

We understand that personal and financial challenges can make it difficult to stay focused on your academic goals. That’s why our Spartan Cares program is here to support you. Whether you need help with transportation, housing, food, financial assistance, academic support, childcare, or emotional and mental health, Spartan Cares connects you with the campus and community resources you need to succeed - because your well-being matters as much as your education.

 

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Our dedicated Academic Advisors are here to assist with choosing classes and creating an academic plan as well as connect you with resources and student organizations to provide a more all-inclusive, rewarding experience while you’re here. Learn more

If you need help with accessing any of the NCC systems like Workday, Office365, Blackboard or any other technology, our IT Help Desk is available seven days a week. Learn more

An Adult-Friendly Learning Environment

From working full-time and raising their families, to managing busy schedules and priorities, hear adult students discuss how Northampton Community College (NCC) provides the flexibility and balance to find success both in and out of the classroom.

Why go back to school at NCC?

We know adult students have a lot to balance, which means you need an institution that can provide the flexibility and support you need to be successful, and can connect you with tangible career outcomes when you’re done. Our adult-friendly learning environment is ideal if you never had a chance to start college, if you started college but didn’t complete it, or if you have a college degree and are looking to pursue a new specialty.

120+

Programs and Majors

40+

Online Programs

16:1

Student to Faculty Ratio

Earn College Credits for What You Already Know

NCC recognizes that many students come to us with knowledge and expertise already in hand.

Whether you have:

  • served in the military
  • taken Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams
  • have been part of extensive on-the-job-training or apprenticeships
  • participated in a non-credit program
  • earned certificates for professional development
  • taken online classes at a non-regionally accredited school
  • are fluent in a second or third language
  • have spent dedicated years of service in a given career

We value what you have learned and, whenever possible, want to award you college credit for that work.

The Application Process for Adult Students

Follow our enrollment checklist to apply today! You will need to send us your high school or GED transcript plus any test scores or transcripts from other institutions. You should also complete the FAFSA so that we can evaluate your financial aid opportunities.

 

If you are applying for one of our Selective Admissions Programs (Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Funeral Service Education, Nursing-RN, Nursing-LPN, Radiography, Respiratory Therapy, and Veterinary Technician), make sure to review all of the requirements and deadlines. You must submit all application materials by the deadline and complete all prerequisite requirements to be considered.

Accessible NCC adult education programs are available to learners of all backgrounds. Our resources and admissions team can help you navigate the application and admission process: send your questions to adminfo@northampton.edu or start your application!

 

Apply Online Now

Adult Information Sessions

Join us for an Adult Information Session to learn how NCC can help you reach your goals and connect you with tangible career outcomes when you're finished. We'll cover everything you need to know about the advantages we offer to our adult students including flexible learning options, credit for prior experience, resources and support services, financial aid and more!

Student and her daughter on their computers

Workforce Training & Leadership Development

NCC also provides affordable, shorter-term workforce training and leadership development opportunities for those looking to broaden their skillset or make a career change—many of which are in high-demand fields like healthcare, corporate and public safety, IT education, computer training, and more! These programs are designed to help individuals quickly gain the credentials and confidence needed to thrive in today’s evolving job market. Whether you're upskilling for advancement or reskilling for a new direction, NCC makes it easier to take that next step. If you are looking to enroll in one of our non-credit workforce training programs or classes, you do not need to complete our admissions application. Instead, you'll register through our LifeLearn system.

Business & Leadership Development Corporate & Public Safety Healthcare Training Hospitality IT & Computer Training Technical, Industrial & Trades

Alumni Spotlight

I started taking classes and doors began opening. I found I was able to understand my life and my world so much better, and that was really empowering to me.

Kim Kindred '22
Psychology

Kim Kindred holding her books

Next Steps

With 120+ high-quality programs at a highly affordable cost, you can build specialized skills to advance in your career path — fast. And with flexible class formats and convenient locations, it's never been easier to join us.

Northampton Community College

Northampton Community College
3835 Green Pond Road
Bethlehem PA 18020
610.861.5300

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