Carteret Community College is a two-year, comprehensive, public, post-secondary, nonresidential institution with the following mission: Carteret Community College offers opportunities for lifelong learning through high quality traditional and distance learning teaching, training, support, and enrichment with the intended purpose of improving the quality of life for all citizens of Carteret County and eastern North Carolina. Responsive to the needs of local business and industry, the College offers occupational training programs, including those designed to support tourism, marine occupations, and the legal and business professions. Unique to our service area are the College’s programs in aquaculture and marine manufacturing and service, health sciences, photography, culinary and hospitality, and human services technology. Additionally, the College contributes to the personal, social, and cultural growth of local citizens, and provides interested students with courses that transfer to senior institutions. Founded in 1963, Carteret Community College is one of 58 institutions comprising the North Carolina Community College System and has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College since 1974. With more than 35 programs of study to choose from, students can pursue programs leading to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. The College has also increased its vocational program options with the recent addition of Automotive Technology, Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technology, Horticulture Technology, Welding Technology, and Building Construction Technology.