Technical college in rural Tennessee offering career-focused diplomas and certificates in skilled trades.
TCAT Northwest offers certificate and diploma programs designed for workforce entry in one year or less. Programs span skilled trades (welding, automotive, diesel equipment), healthcare (practical nursing, dental assisting, pharmacy technology), construction, industrial maintenance, and emerging fields like electric vehicle production and digital agronomy. Instruction emphasizes hands-on training balanced with classroom theory, aligned with current industry standards. The college operates on a year-round trimester calendar with 216 instructional days per trimester.
The main campus is located at 340 Washington Street in rural Newbern, Tennessee. TCAT Northwest also operates instructional service centers in Tiptonville and Bells, and recently expanded the Welding Technology Program to Ripley. Student organizations include SkillsUSA, National Technical Honor Society, and Student Government Association. The college provides disability services, bookstore access, and student job opportunities.
TCAT Northwest accepts applications on a rolling basis. High school students may pursue dual enrollment with a minimum 2.5 GPA and completion of sophomore year. Out-of-state and international students must meet residency requirements; foreign nationals must provide proof of permanent residency. Transfer credit is available for prior coursework. The college offers financial aid including TNPromise, Tennessee Reconnect Grant (for independent students), Pell Grants, and scholarships.
The college reports an 85% placement rate, 79% total completion rate, and 97% licensure exam pass rate for applicable programs. Notably, students graduate with $0 average debt. Programs are designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment in high-skill, high-wage, high-demand occupations.