The programs available at the New Castle Career Center continue to expand and grow each year. Along with growing options, the instructors are also striving to offer as many college credits to students as possible. Students earn these dual credits by completing the courses and in some cases, passing a test or becoming certified. As of 2019, students have earned 3,472 dual credits equaling a savings of $1,161,652.

By earning dual credits in their career programs, students will save time and money once they enter college. While some programs offered at the Career Center allow students to immediately enter the workforce, others require continuing education- proving the value of earning these dual credits.

Many students who have studied at the Career Center experience success once entering college due to the college-level experiences they’ve had while in high school. Not only did they enter their freshmen year ahead of schedule, but they also saved a large amount of money since their credits from the Career Center came at little or no cost to them.

Paige Fraley, a Health Science Education student, graduated from high school and continued on to nursing school. Due to the amount of college credits she entered college with, she was able to take her TEAS test before graduating high school and will be finishing her Registered Nurse (RN) degree in two years.

Another Career Center student, Coulter Alm, participated in the Machine Trades program. After high school he continued on to Vincennes where he is studying to earn his Associates Degree. Because of the dual credits he received from the Career Center, he will be saving almost $10,000 in tuition and books, due to bypassing so many courses.

“If you’re having any doubts about going through the Career Center or early college, I can assure you it’s worth it,” Alm explained. “It gave me a head start on what to expect once I got to college and saved me a ton of money.”

For information about the dual credits included in the 18 New Castle Career Center programs, visit nccareercenter.org