WHITEVILLE, NC — Southeastern Community College (SCC) has opened the new academic year with substantial enrollment growth across its degree, high school, and workforce training programs—a surge college officials credit to expanded local partnerships, flexible class options, and growing regional demand for career-ready credentials.
Fall curriculum enrollment at SCC reached 1,589 students, marking an 8.5% increase from last year. The college’s Career and College Promise program—which allows local high school students to earn tuition-free college credits—grew by 10% to 607 students. Additionally, curriculum full-time equivalent (FTE) enrollment rose 7% to 596.6, while continuing education enrollment jumped 34% alongside a 61% surge in continuing education FTE.
Dr. Brandon Jenkins, SCC Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer, emphasized that the gains directly impact the economic strength of Columbus County and surrounding communities.
“First and foremost, it means that SCC is reaching more students and having a significant impact on our community,” Jenkins said. “For our business and industry partners, it means that more students are working toward credentials and skills that directly impact the county and regional workforce. Long term, it means that more Columbus County residents have a workforce credential, certificate, diploma or degree that lead to sustainable wages that can support families.”
Jenkins pointed to strengthened relationships with public schools, clearer community outreach, and more versatile scheduling options as core drivers of the surge, alongside dedicated college staff.
SCC President Dr. Chris English echoed those thoughts, highlighting faculty advising and program alignment with technical trades and healthcare as key factors. English noted that higher enrollment feeds directly into filling local employment gaps, while the college prepares students for emerging technical trends like artificial intelligence across industries.
“Completion leads to more jobs being filled,” English said. “We want to continue creating workforce pipelines that fill the gaps in employer needs.”
To accommodate this ongoing momentum, SCC is preparing to open its new 22,000-square-foot Black’s Tire Advanced Transportation Technology Center. The facility will house expanded training in automotive systems technology, diesel repair, and truck driving for adult learners and high school students alike. The college is also preparing to add more evening course offerings to accommodate working adults.
Residents interested in enrolling or exploring program options can contact an SCC Student Advisor at 910-788-6247 or by visiting the Website.
© 2026 CoastalCarolinaNews.com– Jones Media Partners LLC. All rights reserved
Coastal Carolina News is an independent, locally owned Digital News Platform serving Southeastern NC and Northeastern SC.
Be the first to comment