Programs of Study

The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology program provides the basic knowledge to develop skills necessary to work with residential and light HVAC commercial systems.

Why AC, Heating & Refrigeration?

• Gain expertise in heating, cooling, refrigeration, and system controls to solve real-world challenges.
• Develop hands-on skills in HVAC service and installation using industry tools.
• Prepare for career roles in installation, service, and maintenance for residential and light commercial systems.

The Accounting and Finance is a specialized transfer degree for students interested in pursuing teacher licensure in elementary, middle, high school, or special education.  Within the degree program, the student will have learning opportunities for the achievement of competence within the general education coursework such as reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical and natural science, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities.

Why Accounting and Finance?

• Gain skills in accounting, finance, marketing, and taxation while honing critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
• Learn through practical coursework aligned with today’s employer needs.
• Prepare for versatile careers in industries like healthcare, government, education, and manufacturing.

CVCC offers the Associate in Arts degree.

Why Associate in Arts?

• Receive personalized, one-on-one instruction and guidance to refine your musical skills.

The Associate in Arts in Teacher Preparation is a specialized transfer degree for students interested in pursuing teacher licensure in elementary, middle, high school, or special education.  Within the degree program, the student will have learning opportunities for the achievement of competence within the general education coursework such as reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical and natural science, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities.

Why Associate in Fine Arts in Teacher Preparation?

• Develop a strong foundation in key subjects, such as literacy, communication, and math, to prepare for your teaching career.
• Take advantage of transfer opportunities through agreements with universities, ensuring a smooth path to advanced degrees and teacher licensure.
• Gain the knowledge and experience needed to excel in a rewarding teaching career and positively impact the next generation of learners.

The Associate in Engineering (AE) degree shall be granted for a planned program of study consisting of a minimum of 60 semester hours of credit (SHC) of courses. Within the degree program, the institution shall include opportunities for the achievement of competence in reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical skills, and basic computer use.

Why Associate in Engineering?

• Transfer smoothly to top North Carolina Bachelor of Science in Engineering programs.
• Build essential skills in math, communication, and engineering methods.
• Prepare for rewarding careers in engineering with a strong foundation for success.

CVCC offers the Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) degree, with a concentration in music which is designed for students who wish to work as professional musicians or transfer into baccalaureate degree programs to complete a Bachelor in Fine Arts (BFA) degree or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree with a major in Music.

Why Associate in Fine Arts in Music?

• Receive personalized, one-on-one instruction and guidance to refine your musical skills.
• Build a solid foundation in music theory, performance, and composition, preparing for a successful career or transfer to a four-year institution.
• Take advantage of CVCC's supportive music community and renowned instructors to help you reach your potential in the music world.

The program brings together the strengths that CVCC has to offer with small class sizes, instruction led by theater artists, and hands-on training. The Associate in Fine Arts in Theater gives artists a broad base to practice their skills and hone their talents.

Why Associate in Fine Arts in Theatre?

• Strengthen your creativity and technical theatre knowledge through hands-on learning. Choose between an acting or technical theatre track, or combine both for a well-rounded education.
• Gain the skills needed to succeed in theatre and life, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication.
• Learn from experienced theatre professionals in small class settings, ensuring individualized attention and mentorship.

The program brings together the strengths that CVCC has to offer, small class sizes, artist led instruction, and hands-on training. The Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts gives artists a broad base to practice their skills and hone their talents. Students learn problem-solving skills applicable not only to art studies, but also to everyday life. We foster lifelong learning, appreciation of diverse points of view, and recognition of art as a fundamental form of human expression.

Why Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts?

• Gain practical experience and technical skills that will set you apart in the art world.
• Develop the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that are essential to every artist's journey.
• Transfer to a four-year institution or enter the professional world of art with a strong foundation.

CVCC offers the Associate in General Education degree.

Why Associate in General Education?

• Receive personalized, one-on-one instruction and guidance to refine your musical skills.

CVCC offers the Associate in Science degree.

Why Associate in Science?

• Receive personalized, one-on-one instruction and guidance.
• Jump start to your 4-year degree

The Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation is a specialized transfer degree for students interested in pursuing a teacher licensure in elementary, middle, high school in the STEM related fields.  Within the degree program, the student will have learning opportunities for the achievement of competence within the general education coursework such as reading, writing, oral communication, fundamental mathematical and natural science, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities.

Why Associate in Science in Teacher Preparation?

• Build a strong foundation in core subjects, including math, science, and communication, essential for a successful teaching career in STEM.
• Take advantage of transfer opportunities through agreements with universities, ensuring a smooth path to advanced degrees and teacher licensure.
• Gain the knowledge and experience needed to excel in a rewarding teaching career and positively impact the next generation of STEM learners.

The Automotive Systems Technology curriculum prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Instruction includes brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance and repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Why Automotive Systems?

• Learn practical skills in vehicle repair, servicing, and maintenance.
• Gain expertise to become a professional in the transportation industry.
• Prepare for licensure exams and diverse career opportunities in automotive and transportation sectors.

The Catawba Valley Community College's Basic Law Enforcement Training Certificate Program is designed, developed, monitored, and constantly updated by the Criminal Justice Training and Standards Division of the North Carolina Department of Justice. Minimum time for completion is approximately six months. Classes meet during weekdays.

Why Basic Law Enforcement Training?

• Gain a broad exposure to each of the functional areas of business.
• Elective courses allow you to dive deeper on one or more business disciplines.
• Minor stresses the important of courage and conviction in a global environment.

The Business Administration minor allows liberal arts or science majors to explore each of the functional areas of business at a beginning level to better prepare them for eventual careers within a business environment.

Why business administration?

• Build skills in accounting, economics, marketing, and management while enhancing communication and decision-making.
• Gain hands-on experience with coursework tailored to today’s employer needs.
• Prepare for diverse careers in industries like government and finance or continue your education.

The Computer Engineering Technology curriculum provides the skills required to install, service, and maintain computers, peripherals, networks and microprocessors, and computer controlled equipment. It includes training in both hardware and software, emphasizing operating systems concepts to provide a unified view of computer systems.

Why Computer Engineering Technology?

• Learn to install, service, and maintain computer systems, networks, and peripherals.
• Study electronics, programming, digital circuits, and operating systems.
• Prepare for careers in computer networks, programming, and server maintenance.

The Computer-Integrated Machining Technology curriculum prepares students with the analytical, creative, and innovative skills necessary to take a production idea from an initial concept through design, development, and production, resulting in a finished product.

Why Computer Integrated Machining Technology?

• Master manual and CNC machining, precision measurement, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Gain expertise in CAD, CAM, and high-speed multi-axis machining technologies.
• Prepare for careers in industries like aerospace, medical, and renewable energy.

The Cosmetology program curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific and artistic principles, and hands-on fundamentals associated with the cosmetology industry.

Why Cosmetology?

• Gain practical, hands-on experience in a simulated salon environment to develop industry-relevant skills.
• Learn from expert instructors in our state-of-the-art Cosmetology Center and get the preparation needed to pass the State Board Exam.
• Open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in the beauty industry, from hairstyling to nail care, skin care, and beyond.

The Criminal Justice Technology curriculum is designed to provide knowledge of criminal justice systems and operations. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. The criminal justice system’s role within society will be explored.

Why Criminal Justice Technology?

• Gain in-depth knowledge of criminal justice systems, law enforcement, corrections, and security services.
• Prepare for high-demand roles in law enforcement and corrections, with opportunities to transfer to a four-year university through partnership programs.

Forensic Science is a concentration under the curriculum of Criminal Justice Technology, which focuses on the application of the physical, biomedical, and social sciences to the analysis and evaluation of physical evidence, human testimony and criminal suspects. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, evidence processing and procedures.

Why Criminal Justice Technology - Forensic Science?

• Become an expert analyst using physical, biomedical, and social sciences.
• Gain hands-on experience in examining crime scenes using fingerprint classification, chemical development techniques, and recording, casting, and recognizing footwear and tire-tracks.
• Prepare for a variety of careers in law enforcement, corrections, and other criminal justice-related fields.

A dental hygienist’s primary functions focus on dental disease prevention and oral health maintenance. In NC, these functions are performed under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. The clinical dental hygienist collaborates with the dentist in an effort to provide services to the patient that will guide the patient towards optimal oral health.

Why Dental Hygiene?

• Build expertise in oral health assessment, treatment planning, and patient care.
• Engage in hands-on learning that prepares you for real-world dental hygiene practice.
• Prepare for diverse career opportunities in dental offices, public health, education, and more.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers. Course work includes child growth and development; physical and nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children

Why Early Childhood Education?

• Gain a broad exposure to each of the functional areas of business.
• Elective courses allow you to dive deeper on one or more business disciplines.
• Minor stresses the important of courage and conviction in a global environment.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers. Course work includes child growth and development; physical and nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children

Why Early Childhood Education?

• Develop expertise in fostering the growth of children from birth to age eight, including social, emotional, and physical development.
• Gain hands-on experience in childcare settings, bridging classroom knowledge with real-world application.
• Prepare for a variety of career opportunities, from childcare provider to preschool teacher, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.

The Electrical Systems Technology curriculum is designed to provide training for persons interested in the installation and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems found in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

Why Electrical Systems Technology?

• Master foundational concepts in solid-state fundamentals, digital systems, and microprocessors.
• Develop analytical skills to troubleshoot and optimize electronic systems.
• Prepare for careers as field service technicians, systems integrators, or production control technicians.

The Electrical Systems Technology curriculum is designed to provide training for persons interested in the installation and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems found in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

Why Electrical Systems Technology?

• Master key concepts like digital electronics, programmable logic controllers, and industrial motor controls.
• Gain hands-on experience in electrical system installation and maintenance.
• Prepare for careers in residential, commercial, industrial, and manufacturing sectors.

The Electronics Engineering Technology curriculum prepares individuals to become technicians who design, build, install, test, troubleshoot, repair, and modify developmental and production electronic components, equipment, and systems such as industrial/computer controls, manufacturing systems, communication systems, and power electronic systems.

Why Electronics Engineering Technology?

• Gain a broad exposure to each of the functional areas of business.
• Elective courses allow you to dive deeper on one or more business disciplines.
• Minor stresses the important of courage and conviction in a global environment.

The Emergency Management curriculum is designed to provide students with a foundation of technical and professional knowledge needed for emergency services delivery in local and state government agencies. Study involves both management and technical aspects of law enforcement, fire protection, emergency medical services, and emergency planning. An Associate of Applied Science Degree is awarded on completion of this degree.

Why Criminal Justice Technology?

• Develop the technical and administrative skills needed for a career in emergency management.
• Gain hands-on experience through laboratory training and coursework in fire protection, law enforcement, and emergency medical services.
• Prepare for career opportunities in public safety, emergency services, and government agencies.

Emergency Medical Science (EMS) is an education in a branch of medicine that focuses on having a general knowledge in many other fields of medicine and the capacity to provide emergency care to critically ill or injured patients in order to stabilize them for further care. The professionals within this discipline are sought for many positions in the healthcare field, such as: ambulance services, flight crews, emergency rooms, urgent cares, doctor’s offices, and more. The opportunities in emergency medicine are as diverse as the skills these professionals provide.

Why Emergency Medical Science?

• Gain specialized training to become a paramedic and deliver life-saving care in emergencies.
• Learn through hands-on experiences and practical coursework that reflects real-world scenarios.
• Prepare for a rewarding career in EMS, working in hospitals, ambulances, and other emergency medical services. This program also offers an Associate degree for those seeking career enhancement.

The Business Administration minor allows liberal arts or science majors to explore each of the functional areas of business at a beginning level to better prepare them for eventual careers within a business environment.

Why business administration?

• Master essential skills in innovation, creativity, business funding, and marketing.
• Learn practical strategies to identify opportunities and build successful businesses.
• Prepare to launch your venture in industries like technology, retail, service, or manufacturing.

The Fire Protection Technology curriculum is intended to offer individuals professional and technical knowledge to make decisions regarding fire protection in both public and private domains. It provides a stable foundation for continuous higher learning in fire protection, administration, and management.

Why Fire ProtectionTechnology?

• Gain expertise in fire protection systems, arson investigation, hazardous materials, and more.
• Learn from experienced faculty with real-world industry knowledge.
• Pave the way for career advancement in fire protection or further education with a bachelor’s degree.

The Electrical Systems Technology curriculum is designed to provide training for persons interested in the installation and maintenance of electrical/electronic systems found in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.

Why Electrical Systems Technology?

• Master foundational concepts in solid-state fundamentals, digital systems, and microprocessors.
• Develop analytical skills to troubleshoot and optimize electronic systems.
• Prepare for careers as field service technicians, systems integrators, or production control technicians.

The CVCC Graphic Design program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the graphic design profession, which emphasizes design, advertising, illustration, and digital and multimedia preparation of printed and electronic promotional materials.

Why graphic design?

• Unlock your creativity and gain the skills to bring ideas to life through design, advertising, and multimedia.
• Build a strong portfolio with hands-on experience in professional Mac labs, preparing for in-demand careers.
• Enter a thriving industry where your work shapes brands, engages audiences, and drives innovation.

The Health and Fitness Science associate degree is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the fitness and exercise industry.

Why Health & Fitness Science?

• Develop expertise in exercise science, fitness assessments, and wellness program implementation.
• Gain hands-on experience and practical training, preparing you to work in diverse environments like gyms, wellness centers, and community health programs.
• Turn your passion into a rewarding career with growth opportunities, supported by CVCC Career Services to connect you with local employers.

Electroneurodiagnostics (END) is one of the newer and most rapidly growing specialties in the medical field. It is devoted to the recording and study of the electrical activity of the brain and nervous system. END technologists record electrical activity arising primarily from the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, or somato-sensory systems using a variety of techniques and instruments.

Why Electroneurodiagnostics?

• Develop expertise in managing medical records, coding, and analyzing patient data.
• The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has targeted HIT as top profession with high growth potential, and CVCC graduates enjoy excellent job placement rates!
• The ability to work remotely (from home) is an opportunity for several HIM positions and is attractive to many job seekers.

The Healthcare Management Technology (HMT) program prepares you to work in or manage these dynamic business office responsibilities and new reimbursement methods. Healthcare management is a career choice with exciting challenges, teaching graduates how to increase profitability, code and process insurance, and provide excellent customer (patient) service.

Why Healthcare Management?

• Learn how to navigate the challenges of healthcare operations and improve profitability.
• Position yourself for leadership opportunities in healthcare business and management.
• Prepare for diverse careers in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and more.

The Human Services Technology curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions in institutions and agencies which provide social, community, and educational services.

Why Human Services Technology?

• Gain hands-on experience and skills to work effectively in mental health, family services, and other human services fields.
• Learn to support diverse populations through cultural competency and client care best practices.
• Prepare for rewarding careers in agencies that make a difference, with opportunities for continued education and professional growth.

The Industrial Systems Technology curriculum is designed to prepare or upgrade individuals to safely service, maintain, repair, or install equipment. Instruction includes theory and skill training needed for inspecting, testing, troubleshooting, and diagnosing industrial systems.

Why Industrial Systems Technology?

• Build expertise in installing, inspecting, and repairing industrial process and support equipment.
• Learn practical skills in blueprint reading, mechanical systems, hydraulics, welding, and more.
• Prepare for in-demand careers in manufacturing, maintenance, and industrial operations.

The Information Technology (IT) curriculum prepares graduates for employment in the technology sector as designers, testers, support technicians, system administrators, developers, or programmers who use computer software and\or hardware to design, process, implement and manage information systems in specialties such as database services, security, business intelligence, healthcare informatics and others depending on the technical path selected within this curriculum.

Why Information Technology?

• Gain in-depth knowledge of networking, security systems, and threat management to safeguard digital infrastructures.
• Develop practical skills through coursework aligned with industry-recognized certifications and real-world scenarios.
• Prepare for high-demand careers in cybersecurity, including roles as security administrators, network analysts, and junior penetration testers.

The Information Technology (IT) curriculum prepares graduates for employment in the technology sector as designers, testers, support technicians, system administrators, developers, or programmers who use computer software and/or hardware to design, process, implement and manage information systems in specialties such as database services, security, business intelligence, healthcare informatics and others depending on the technical path selected within this curriculum.

Why Information Technology?

• Gain the knowledge and understanding of how information systems drive businesses, from software development to data security, and optimize network infrastructures.
• Earn industry-recognized certifications, such as CompTIA A+, Server+, Net+, and Security+, to enhance your career prospects.
• Prepare for in-demand careers in IT, including roles in cloud computing, network management, and cybersecurity.

The Information Technology: Programming and App Development program prepares individuals for employment as computer programmers and related positions through study and applications in computer concepts, logic, programming procedures, languages, generators, operating systems, networking, data management, and business operations. Students will solve business computer problems through programming techniques and procedures, using appropriate languages and software. The primary emphasis of the curriculum is hands- on training in programming and related computer areas that provide the ability to adapt as systems evolve.

Why IT - Programming & App Development?

• Gain expertise in coding, app development, and data management while learning to solve real-world challenges.
• Learn through practical coursework that aligns with the needs of today’s tech industry.
• Prepare for a wide range of careers in tech, from app developers to software engineers, and take advantage of growing opportunities in mobile technology, cybersecurity, and more.

The Mechanical Engineering Technology is a course of study that prepares the students to use basic engineering principles and technical skills to design, develop, test, and troubleshoot projects involving mechanical systems.

Why Mechanical Engineering Technology?

• Gain expertise in mechanical systems, testing procedures, and engineering principles while solving real-world challenges.
• Learn through hands-on coursework that aligns with industry standards and prepares you for the workforce.
• Prepare for a wide range of careers in mechanical engineering, from industrial technicians to research engineers, with the opportunity for professional certification.

The Mechatronics Engineering Technology curriculum prepares graduates to use basic engineering principles and technical skills in developing and testing automated, servomechanical, and other electromechanical systems. Includes instruction in prototype testing, manufacturing and operational testing, systems analysis and maintenance procedures.

Why MechatronicsEngineering Technology?

• Gain a broad exposure to each of the functional areas of business.
• Elective courses allow you to dive deeper on one or more business disciplines.
• Minor stresses the important of courage and conviction in a global environment.

In the Medical Office Administration program, students learn to provide office support to medical facilities including records management, medical report production, patient interface, insurance and billing responsibilities, telephone interaction, and confidentiality.

Why Medical Office Administration?

• Gain expertise in medical office operations, including billing, coding, and patient care support.
• Learn through real-world coursework and hands-on training in a healthcare setting.
• Prepare for certification exams and increase your career opportunities in medical offices.

Upon successful completion of the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) coursework, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN); a required step to practice as a registered nurse.

Why Nursing?

• Master nursing skills with a focus on safety, quality, and evidence-based care.
• Gain hands-on experience to meet patient needs and excel in team-based care.
• Prepare for nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings.

The photography field is unique because it provides a wide range of niches that can be filled, offering an array of employment opportunities. Because of this, the Photographic Technology program at CVCC teaches a wide range of hands-on classes ranging from documentary, portraiture, commercial, fine art, to photojournalism. Students work two semesters on portfolios based on career interests. This approach prepares students to enter the workplace or continue their education.

Why photographic technology?

• Develop expertise in camera operation, lighting, digital imaging, and photojournalism to excel in the photography industry.
• Gain practical experience with local partners, creating work for real-world clients and publications.
• Prepare for diverse career areas such as commercial photography, photojournalism, or fine art photography, or continue their studies in advanced photography techniques.

The Polysomnography (PSG) program at Catawba Valley Community College is offered in collaboration with Central Piedmont Community College. The program offers students the opportunity to take general education courses at Catawba Valley Community College online or in-person then transfer to Central Piedmont to complete the PSG program. The PSG program will offer synchronous lectures and on campus labs periodically throughout the semester. The program's clinical component offers opportunities to complete those hours at our local community health partners.

Why Polysomnography?

• Gain expertise in medical imaging and radiation protection while contributing to patient care.
• Learn through practical coursework and hands-on clinical experiences that prepare you for real-world healthcare challenges.
• Qualify for in-demand careers in healthcare, with opportunities to work in various medical settings such as hospitals and private practices.

The Respiratory Program's main goal is to prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs). The respiratory therapist is qualified to assume primary responsibility for respiratory and cardiac care.

Why Respiratory Therapy?

• Gain specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in respiratory and cardiac care.
• Learn how to perform life-saving treatments like oxygen therapy, heart and lung studies, and more.
• Take advantage of the growing demand for respiratory therapists in healthcare, with opportunities in hospitals, clinics, education, and home care.

The Respiratory Program's main goal is to prepare graduates with demonstrated competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains of respiratory care practice as performed by registered respiratory therapists (RRTs). The respiratory therapist is qualified to assume primary responsibility for respiratory and cardiac care.

Why Respiratory Therapy?

• Gain expertise in surgical procedures, aseptic technique, and patient safety to become a key member of a surgical team.
• Learn through hands-on experience in both labs and clinical settings to prepare for a variety of surgical environments.
• Prepare for a rewarding career in hospitals, surgical centers, and more, with growing demand for surgical technologists in healthcare.

The Industrial Systems Technology curriculum is designed to prepare or upgrade individuals to safely service, maintain, repair, or install equipment. Instruction includes theory and skill training needed for inspecting, testing, troubleshooting, and diagnosing industrial systems.

Why Industrial Systems Technology?

• Develop a deep understanding of construction technologies, building science, and energy-efficient practices to excel in today’s construction industry.
• Gain hands-on experience with real-world projects and local industry partners to prepare for immediate entry into the workforce.
• Build a foundation for a wide range of careers in construction, environmental, renewable energy, or related industries.

Turfgrass Management Technology will prepare you for jobs maintaining lawns, golf courses, parks, and other recreational grounds. Students learn how to select, establish, maintain, and manage the right grasses for specific uses. Students will learn about warm and cool season grasses and how to control weeds, insects, and diseases. Students also learn about construction and renovation of golf courses.

Why Turfgrass Management Technology?

• Gain hands-on experience in turfgrass maintenance, pest control, and sustainable plant management while preparing for careers in the outdoors.
• Learn from real-world work opportunities that provide experience and potential job offers upon graduation.
• Prepare for diverse career paths in golf course management, landscaping, parks, and turf maintenance, with opportunities for advancement in the turfgrass industry.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Why Welding Technology?

• Gain expertise in welding processes and metalworking techniques.
• Learn through practical, hands-on coursework that reflects the needs of today’s welding industry.
• Open the door to an array of career opportunities with the chance for self-employment or advancement in manufacturing and construction.