Durham Technical Community College | Tuition Fees | Courses Offered | Admission
General Information
Reviews
Durham Technical Community College (Durham Tech) is widely regarded for its comprehensive and career-focused programs, offering both academic transfer courses and workforce development opportunities. Students frequently highlight the supportive learning environment, noting that faculty and staff are approachable, experienced, and dedicated to student success. Many reviews emphasize the college’s small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention and hands-on learning, especially in technical and health-related programs. The campus atmosphere is described as welcoming, fostering collaboration and community engagement among students.
Alumni often praise Durham Tech for effectively preparing them for immediate employment or for transferring to four-year institutions, citing strong programs in nursing, IT, engineering technologies, and business administration. Some students note that navigating administrative processes can occasionally be challenging, but overall, the positive aspects of academic rigor, career readiness, and community engagement outweigh these issues. Durham Tech also receives commendation for its affordability, making higher education accessible to a diverse student body, including non-traditional learners, adult students, and those seeking skill advancement. The college’s commitment to student support, career services, and practical instruction has cemented its reputation as a leading community college in North Carolina.
Contact Information
Address: 1637 Lawson Street, Durham, NC 27703, United States
Phone Number: (919) 536-7200
Email Address: admissions@durhamtech.edu
School Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Institution Name | Durham Technical Community College |
| Type | Public community college |
| Founded | 1961 |
| Campus Setting | Urban |
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Motto / Emphasis | Excellence in education, workforce development, and community engagement |
| Academic Offerings | Associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, continuing education, and workforce training |
Durham Technical Community College Rankings
| Ranking Type | Standing / Note |
|---|---|
| National (USA) | Recognized among top community colleges for workforce development and transfer programs |
| Global Rankings | Not ranked in global university rankings due to community college designation |
Durham Technical Community College Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Health Sciences
- Business and Information Technology
- Engineering and Industrial Technology
- Arts and Sciences
- Public Service and Law Enforcement
- Continuing Education and Workforce Development
- Academic Support Services
Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Associate in Arts (AA)
- Associate in Science (AS)
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing
- Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration
- Certificates in Welding, HVAC, Electrical Technology
- Diplomas in Automotive Technology, Paralegal Studies, and Medical Assisting
- Continuing education and workforce development programs
Online Learning
Durham Tech offers a variety of online and hybrid courses, allowing students flexibility in completing general education, transfer-level courses, and certain certificate programs. Online learning includes virtual lectures, interactive modules, and digital assessments.
Degrees
Durham Tech primarily awards Associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Degrees are designed for academic transfer, workforce entry, and professional skill enhancement.
Summer School
Summer sessions provide opportunities for accelerated courses, skill reinforcement, and additional electives, accommodating students needing flexible schedules or aiming to complete programs faster.
Average Test Scores
| Test / Metric | Typical Range / Requirement |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not required for admission |
| ACT | Not required for admission |
| High School GPA | Minimum 2.0 recommended for degree programs |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates are around 70–75%, while graduation rates for degree-seeking students hover near 50%, reflecting community college norms with diverse student populations including adult learners and part-time students.
Durham Technical Community College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Durham Tech primarily considers high school completion or equivalent. SAT or ACT scores are not required, making admission accessible. GPA recommendations vary; most programs suggest a minimum of 2.0. Applicants are evaluated on academic readiness and career goals.
Durham Technical Community College Acceptance Rate
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | Open admission (~100% for eligible applicants) |
Durham Technical Community College Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a completed admissions application, proof of high school graduation or GED, and residency information for tuition purposes. Certain programs, such as Nursing or Health Sciences, may require additional prerequisites, background checks, or immunizations. Placement tests may be administered to assess readiness in English and mathematics. New students may also attend orientation sessions to ensure familiarity with academic resources and student services.
Enrollment
Enrollment is flexible, with multiple start dates each academic year. Programs accommodate full-time and part-time students, including working adults. Average enrollment is approximately 13,000 students across all campuses and online platforms.
Application Process
- Complete online or paper application
- Submit high school transcript or GED certificate
- Provide residency and personal information
- Attend placement testing if required
- Receive acceptance notification
- Register for courses and attend orientation
Durham Technical Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall | August 1 |
| Spring | January 1 |
| Summer | May 1 |
Essay Prompt
Certain programs may require a short essay discussing academic goals, career aspirations, and motivation for choosing Durham Tech, particularly for competitive programs like Nursing and Health Sciences.
Durham Technical Community College Scholarships
Scholarships are available for academic achievement, financial need, first-generation students, and program-specific merit. The college also provides emergency grants, work-study options, and foundation scholarships to assist students in completing their studies.
Durham Technical Community College Tuition Fees
| Program / Item | Cost (per year) |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | ~$2,500 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | ~$8,500 |
| Books and Supplies | ~$1,200 |
| Health Sciences Programs | Additional lab fees may apply |
Durham Technical Community College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student population is diverse: approximately 55% female and 45% male. Age ranges from 18 to over 50, reflecting traditional and non-traditional learners. Racial and ethnic composition includes roughly 45% White, 30% Black/African American, 15% Hispanic/Latino, 5% Asian, and 5% other or multiracial.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Durham Tech serves many low-income students, providing access to financial aid, scholarships, and supportive programs. Students with disabilities receive accommodations in classrooms, labs, and online courses to ensure equitable access to education.
Student Body
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~13,000 |
| International Students | ~5% |
| Full-Time vs Part-Time | ~50/50 |
| Gender Distribution | 55% female, 45% male |
University Diversity
Durham Technical Community College is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion. Its student body reflects the broader demographic makeup of Durham and the surrounding communities. Programs are designed to be accessible to students from all backgrounds, including adult learners, first-generation college students, and those seeking retraining or career advancement. Classroom collaboration emphasizes cultural competence, mutual respect, and community engagement, preparing students for professional environments that value diversity. The college supports multicultural events, student organizations, and academic programs that promote inclusion and understanding, making diversity a cornerstone of the Durham Tech experience.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Durham Tech typically enter the workforce in technical, healthcare, business, or transfer-oriented roles. Average earnings vary by program: Health Sciences graduates earn $40,000–$60,000 annually, IT and business program graduates $35,000–$55,000, and technical trades $30,000–$50,000. The combination of practical training and academic preparation ensures that students are competitive in the job market, with opportunities for advancement and further education.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate for degree-seeking students is approximately 50%, with higher completion rates in specialized certificate and technical programs due to focused career pathways.
Durham Technical Community College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Faculty at Durham Tech are highly qualified professionals with industry experience in their respective fields. Staff provide student services, including career counseling, financial aid, academic advising, and support for online learning.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members are experts in health sciences, IT, business, industrial technology, and academic disciplines. Many hold advanced degrees, professional certifications, and active industry involvement. Achievements include published research, leadership roles in professional associations, and recognition for teaching excellence.
Durham Technical Community College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Durham Tech’s main campus features modern classrooms, labs, and student centers. While on-campus housing is not available, students live locally or commute from surrounding areas. The campus offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and career-focused events that foster community engagement and professional development.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via local bus routes, bicycle paths, and private vehicles. Parking is available for students and staff. Public transit and commuting support enhance accessibility for students who live off-campus.
Job Openings
Durham Tech actively supports employment for students and alumni through career fairs, partnerships with local employers, internships, and work-study programs. Graduates often secure positions in healthcare, technology, business, and industrial sectors, leveraging their education for immediate workforce entry.