North Carolina's first community college, transforming lives across the Albemarle region since 1960.
College of The Albemarle offers credit programs leading to associate degrees and certificates, as well as noncredit workforce development and continuing education classes. Featured credit programs include Associate Degree Nursing (RN), Basic Law Enforcement Training, and Teacher Preparation. The college also provides College and Career Readiness programs including Adult High School, High School Equivalency (GED/HiSET), Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, and specialized training in fields such as Medical Laboratory Technology, Dental Assisting, and Marine Diesel Engine Repair. Students can pursue online, hybrid, blended, and face-to-face instruction options.
COA operates four campuses across the Albemarle region: the main Elizabeth City campus (1208 N. Road St), plus satellite locations in Manteo (Dare County), Edenton-Chowan, and Barco (Regional Aviation and Technical Training Center). The college features an Academic Success Center offering free tutoring and testing support, a library with online resources, computer labs, and a testing center. Students benefit from career services, work-based learning opportunities, and a variety of clubs and organizations. The college maintains a strong commitment to accessibility and provides support services for students with disabilities.
COA welcomes degree-seeking students, high school students (dual enrollment), and non-degree students pursuing workforce development. New students are required to complete an online orientation before registering for classes. The college offers placement testing, developmental education, and transfer credit evaluation. Admissions are open to adults and qualifying minors (ages 16–17) in College and Career Readiness programs. The college provides flexible scheduling with multiple class formats and delivery methods to accommodate diverse student needs.
COA emphasizes student success through comprehensive support services including the Academic Success Center, tutoring, writing assistance (Writer's Cove), and career readiness testing. The college offers financial aid, scholarships (including Next NC Scholarship and COA Foundation Scholarships), and specialized support for military and veteran students. Program-specific outcomes are tracked, with recent commencement ceremonies celebrating graduates in nursing, medical assisting, practical nursing, and law enforcement training. The college maintains partnerships with employers and one-stop career centers to support workforce transitions.