Why NCC? | Northampton Community College

Quality Education You Can Afford

Accessible education is one of our key values at NCC. We understand that your financial stability and future-oriented financial planning are essential aspects of your ability to thrive as a student. That’s why we keep our tuition costs low—so low that if you live in Northampton County, NCC is one of the most affordable college in Pennsylvania.

In addition to saving up to $40,000 each year on tuition costs compared to other area colleges and universities, we offer the largest private scholarship program of any community college in Pennsylvania, with a total of $46 million of aid available each year. Most students who apply for financial assistance receive  financial aid.

120+ Program Options

With more than 120 programs to choose from, 100+ transfer agreements with dozens of four-year institutions, and countless certifications to upskill and advance your career — We offer an extensive range of options when it comes to pursuing your education or enhancing your skillset. Our areas of study span broad ambitions and are designed to connect students to an academic home and the people who will support their success. Explore programs and career options across Business & Professional Services; Communications, Arts & Design, Computer & Information Technology; Education; Health Sciences; Humanities; Industry & Manufacturing; Science, Math & Engineering; Social Sciences & Human Services; or take time to find your passions through our exploratory studies programs.

NCC’s versatile education structure suits diverse types of learners, from students fresh out of high school to adults seeking to continue their education. Here, you can prepare to start or build upon your career, and our transfer agreements make NCC credits highly valuable if you plan to complete a bachelor’s degree at another institution. Our dedicated Success Navigators/Advisors will support you as you navigate your path to success at NCC.

Online Programs

Take your learning anywhere with one of NCC’s 30+ fully online degree programs, or gain flexibility in your learning in one of our 19 blended (75% online) options. Plus, many of our other programs have some virtual courses available, we offer over 250 online courses each year. Online courses provide you with the same standard of excellence as any other NCC program, and you’ll have the added benefit of tailoring your schedule to your commitments and learning style. Explore why NCC’s virtual courses could enhance your college experience through our Virtual Campus.

Transfer Agreements

If you're planning to transfer to a four-year institution, start at NCC and save. Our programs provide the framework necessary to pursue your bachelor's degree and our dedicated team of advisors will help make the transition a smooth one. We have over 100 transfer agreements with more than 45 colleges and universities across the country including top destinations like East Stroudsburg University, Penn State, Kutztown University, Temple University, Moravian University and more! Use our NCC TransferCheck tool to find out more about all of our transfer opportunities and partnerships.

Bachelor's Degree Programs

Did you know you can complete a 4-year degree on NCC's Bethlehem Campus through one of our partnership programs? It’s another reason why NCC stands apart: alongside East Stroudsburg University, you can earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration (BS) or nursing (BSN), and with Bloomsburg University you can earn a bachelor of applied science in technical leadership (BAS).

Career-Focused Programs

NCC has a strong reputation among area employers because we prepare our graduates for career excellence. You’ll gain essential skills and competitive experience in your chosen career, and you’ll take your expertise directly into the workplace. All of our career programs provide extensive hands-on expereince as part of their required coursework and exposure to the equipment and tools utilized on the job. Career programs with the highest job placement rates after graduation include automotive technology, computer aided design, construction management, electrical, electromechanical and electronics technology, and HVAC/R. 

High School Dual Enrollment 

High School students can jump-start their college career through our Dual Enrollment program. Dual Enrollment allows current Juniors and Seniors to take college courses taught by NCC faculty and staff while earning transferable credits towards a future degree. In addition to being a cost-effective way to get ahead on college coursework, it prepares students for what to expect at the next level and sets them up for success in their future academic endeavors. Each semester we have over 600 dual enrollment students, and 50+ high schools are represented.

Convenient Campus Locations

NCC’s three campus locations offer accessibility to students throughout Northampton and Monroe Counties.

Study at our main campus in Bethlehem to be close to the school's residence halls, theater, athletics center, and our student-run restaurant, Hampton Winds. It's also ideally located near prominent businesses and organizations in the Lehigh Valley and is close to Allentown, and only an hour from Philadelphia and New York City.

Situated in the heart of the Poconos, our scenic Monroe campus hosts a variety of academic programs, support services, and student life opportunities; and is easily accessible from routes 80 and 715.

On the vibrant South Side of Bethlehem, attend classes at our Fowler Family Center, a community hub perfectly suited for programs in hospitality, leadership, public safety, health care, and workforce training.

Personal Attention & Faculty Excellence

Receive direct attention and consistent support as a student at NCC. We boast a competitive 16:1 student–faculty ratio, meaning you’ll get personal, one-on-one access to experts who are committed to your success. Many of our faculty are real-world professionals in their fields, and they are widely respected in higher education: three have been recognized as Pennsylvania Professors of the Year within the last decade!

Alumni Satisfaction

Northampton Community College is the home of CEOs, Pulitzer Prize and Oscar winners, and our renowned reputation of educational excellence lasts long into your career: 99% of NCC alumni recommend the college to others, and 97% rate their learning experience as “good” to “excellent”! Read up on our alumni profiles to get an idea of what an NCC education looks like in the world—after all, 93% of recent graduates are currently employed in their field of choice. 

Becoming a Global Citizen

Engage across cultures in a community of students from 40 countries and 28 states. Here, the true diversity of our student body enriches all that we do as teachers, learners, and global citizens. These values make NCC a hub for appreciation and collaboration across traditional boundaries, and they equip us to celebrate and support you in all that you are.

Study Abroad Opportunities

Expand your horizons across the globe through NCC’s study abroad programs! Choose from 40+ destinations, including Egypt, Spain, Peru, and China, to develop internationally sought-after skills, build intercultural networks, and reach new depths of understanding in your field of study. Combine your personal, academic, and professional goals with the spirit of exploration at NCC.

Find Your Path to Success at NCC!

Jump-start your career with an accessible, affordable education at Northampton Community College. Our student-focused approach to learning, flexible course offerings, campus resources, and 100+ programs are designed for your success. Contact us to speak with an admissions counselor or learn how to apply!