Central Piedmont Community College

1105 Kelly Dr, Sanford, NC

About
Central Piedmont Community College, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, was founded in 1963 through the merger of two previously existing institutions, the Central Industrial Education Center and the historically black Mecklenburg College. The schools were merged as a result of the North Carolina Community College Act, taking over the respective properties of the two schools that merged.  The school has grown since its inception from having 12 programs and 1600 students to over 250 programs and 70,000 students a year. The school operates six campuses in the region as well as distance learning online programs.  CPCC is considered the best workforce development supporter in the region, supporting residents and the community at large through credit and noncredit programs.

Academics
Central Piedmont Community College offers a large number of programs that result in either a certificate, diploma or associate degree. Some programs are designed to prepare students for a career in their area of study by providing practical experience, skills and knowledge necessary to successfully and professionally perform tasks and duties required at the entry level. Graduates of these programs are able to immediately seek employment. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education, the completion of which facilitates transfer to a four year institution to complete their bachelor's degree. Non-credit courses and programs are available for individuals seeking personal interests, or those who wish to return to school to complete missing portions of their education.

Programs offered include:

• Accounting
• Business
• Culinary Arts
• Criminal Justice
• Medical Assisting

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students interested in enrollment at Central Piedmont Community College are asked to contact an admissions advisor to begin the application process. As an open enrollment institution, the requirements for admission are minimal, and if met, typically guarantee admission. Students should provide all pertinent transcripts and test scores, as well as any other documentation the school may request. Once accepted, students will partake in orientation prior to registration.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, and scholarships. Students applying for aid must first obtain a federal PIN number, followed by submitting a completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which will be used to determine need, eligibility and awards. Students may also apply for scholarships from external sources, which typically require separate applications and are awarded for a variety of reasons.

Clubs and Organizations
Clubs and organizations provide students with a variety of social options to serve their interests. Some clubs follow academic and vocational specialization, assisting one another in skill development and focusing on a particular area of study. Some clubs participate in competitions, either academic, athletic or other, and invite students to participate by joining and either assisting competitors or becoming one. Other clubs focus on a particular interest or group of interests. Such clubs often attract likeminded individuals for the purposes of discussion and shared common interests, often almost entirely for social reasons.

Central Piedmont Community College offers assistance to clubs that formally form within the school, providing space and limited funding for operations. Students may petition the school for the formation of a new club if one does not exist that reflects their interests. Clubs and organizations update their information through the student life calendar, available on campus or online. The school promotes membership in clubs and organizations as it helps students socialize and bond, often extending relationships well past graduation.

Clubs and organizations at Central Piedmont Community College include:

• American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)
• Clay Bodies
• Culinary Club
• Horticulture Club
• Black & Tans
• Anime Club
• Spectrum Club