Edgecombe Community College (ECU)

East 5th Street, Greenville, NC

About
Edgecombe Community College, located in Tarboro, North Carolina, is one of the 58 community colleges that comprise the North Carolina Community College System. Originally formed as an extension of Wilson County Technical Institute in 1967, Edgecombe Community College officially became its own entity in 1971, and changed its name from Edgecombe Technical Institute to the current in 1997.

Since its founding the school has grown, adding a second campus, and expanding its service area. Enrollment has increased steadily over the years as well, and as a result additional programs and facilities have been added over time to meet growing needs.

Academics
Edgecombe Community College offers a variety of programs designed to assist students in meeting their academic or professional goals. Students pursuing career training will earn of the course of one or two years, a certificate or degree the demonstrates competency in their area of study and allow for admissions into the workforce at the entry level. Such programs provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become professionals.

Academic transfer programs are also available, allowing students to complete the first two years of a four year education at low monetary cost. Students may apply for transfer to a college or university upon completion, continuing their education toward a bachelors degree upon admission.

As admission requirements vary for transfer will vary by institution, it is recommended students meet with a counselor to develop a curriculum that best meets the requirements of the desired school or schools of transfer.

Programs offered include:

• Biotechnology
• Criminal Justice Technology
• Early Childhood Education
• Accounting
• Cosmetology

In addition to normal academic and career offerings, Edgecombe Community College offers a number of continuing education courses that allow professionals to refresh their knowledge. This is beneficial for those who require an update to their education, particularly for the renewal of licenses or certificates as required by local or state government.

Admissions and Financial Aid
As an open enrollment institution, students who meet the minimum requirements for enrollment will be admitted upon submission of the application for admission. Students must have a high school diploma or be eighteen years of age to enroll. Students must provide transcripts and take a placement exam prior to registration, which takes place shortly prior to the start of each semester.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants and scholarships. Students in need of financial assistance must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the information provided by which will be used to determine financial need, aid program eligibility, and monetary awards. Students may be asked to provide additional financial information prior to the disbursement of funds. Financial aid must be reapplied for at the start of each academic year.