Hazleton Area Career Center

General Information

About Hazleton Area Career Center

Hazleton Area Career Center is a premier vocational and technical education institution located in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, committed to providing students with the practical skills and knowledge required for high-demand careers. The center focuses on preparing both high school students and adult learners for immediate employment or further education in specialized fields. With state-of-the-art facilities, industry-standard equipment, and a hands-on approach to learning, students gain real-world experience while mastering their chosen trades.

The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, integrating technical instruction with soft skills development, workplace ethics, and professional conduct. Hazleton Area Career Center collaborates with local businesses and community partners to provide internships, apprenticeships, and job placement opportunities. Beyond vocational training, the institution emphasizes academic excellence, critical thinking, and lifelong learning, ensuring that graduates are well-rounded and competitive in their respective industries. The center’s mission is rooted in providing accessible, quality education that empowers students to succeed in both local and global economies, promoting personal growth, economic development, and community engagement.

Contact Information

School Facts

FactDetails
Founding Year1969
Motto“Preparing Students for Success in Life and Work”
AccreditationPennsylvania Department of Education, Career and Technical Education Division
Student EnrollmentApproximately 1,200 students
Student-to-Faculty Ratio16:1

Hazleton Area Career Center Rankings

CategoryRank
Best Technical Schools in PennsylvaniaTop 10
National Technical Career School RankingTop 150

Hazleton Area Career Center Academics

Hazleton Area Career Center Faculties / Departments

  • Health Sciences Department
  • Automotive Technology Department
  • Information Technology Department
  • Culinary Arts Department
  • Business and Marketing Department
  • Construction and Skilled Trades Department
  • Cosmetology Department
  • Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Department
  • Early Childhood Education Department

Hazleton Area Career Center Courses and Programs / Majors

  • Practical Nursing
  • Medical Assisting
  • Automotive Repair and Service
  • Computer Networking and IT Support
  • Culinary Arts and Baking
  • Business Administration and Marketing
  • Carpentry and Electrical Technology
  • Cosmetology and Hairstyling
  • Criminal Justice and Security
  • Early Childhood Education

Online Learning

Hazleton Area Career Center offers limited online courses to support theory-based instruction and supplemental learning. These online programs allow students to access coursework, complete assignments, and engage in discussions remotely. While hands-on practice remains central to most programs, online resources facilitate flexible learning for students balancing school with work or other responsibilities. Faculty provide guidance and virtual support to ensure that students can keep pace with course requirements and remain connected to the center’s academic community.

Average Test Scores

TestAverage Score
SAT900–1050
ACT17–23
GRENot applicable

Retention and Graduation Rates

MetricRate
Graduation Rate70%
Program Retention Rate82%
Job Placement Rate68%

Hazleton Area Career Center Admissions

GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range

Hazleton Area Career Center primarily admits students with a high school GPA of 2.0 or higher. Admission emphasizes student interest in career and technical education rather than standardized test performance. Some specialized programs may have additional entrance criteria, but most students are evaluated holistically to ensure they are prepared for the program’s demands and opportunities.

Hazleton Area Career Center Acceptance Rate

CategoryRate
Overall Acceptance95%

Hazleton Area Career Center Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a completed application along with proof of high school enrollment or graduation. Additional documents may include transcripts, a government-issued ID, program-specific forms, and any relevant certifications or immunization records for health-related programs. Applicants are encouraged to attend an informational session or meet with an admissions counselor to discuss program suitability, career objectives, and enrollment options. The center supports adult learners and career changers, providing flexible pathways to program completion.

Application Process

  1. Complete the application form online or in person.
  2. Submit high school transcripts or GED certificate.
  3. Provide government-issued identification.
  4. Submit program-specific documentation if required.
  5. Attend an interview or assessment if required.
  6. Receive acceptance notification and enrollment instructions.

Hazleton Area Career Center Application Deadlines / Important Dates

TermApplication Deadline
FallJuly 1
SpringDecember 1
SummerMay 1

Essay Prompt

Applicants may be asked to provide a brief statement outlining career goals, motivations for joining the program, and how they plan to use the training in their professional development.

Hazleton Area Career Center Scholarships

The center offers various scholarships to support students, including merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards. Partnerships with local businesses and community organizations provide additional funding opportunities for students pursuing high-demand careers in health sciences, skilled trades, IT, and culinary arts. Scholarships assist with tuition, fees, books, and equipment expenses.

Hazleton Area Career Center Tuition and Fees

Program TypeTuitionFees
Full-Time Career Programs$4,000/year$400
Part-Time Programs$2,000/year$200
Continuing Education CoursesVariesVaries

Hazleton Area Career Center Student Profile and Demographics

Student Demographics

  • Gender: 50% female, 50% male
  • Age: Primarily 16–22, with adult learners 23+
  • Race/Ethnicity: Diverse population including White, African American, Hispanic, and Asian students

Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities

Hazleton Area Career Center provides robust support for low-income students, including financial aid counseling, scholarships, and fee waivers. Students with disabilities receive accommodations such as adaptive technology, specialized instruction, and accessible facilities to ensure equitable participation in all programs.

Student Body

CategoryNumber
Total Students1,200
International Students20

University Diversity

Hazleton Area Career Center fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment where students from different cultural, socioeconomic, and ethnic backgrounds are welcomed and supported. The institution emphasizes collaboration and cross-cultural understanding through group projects, professional mentorship, and community-based activities. Faculty and staff actively promote inclusivity, ensuring that all students have access to educational resources, guidance, and opportunities. This commitment to diversity prepares students to thrive in varied professional settings, promotes respect for different perspectives, and enhances social and professional growth.

Average Earnings

Graduates of Hazleton Area Career Center programs are equipped to enter high-demand industries, often earning competitive wages immediately after program completion. Health sciences, IT, skilled trades, and culinary graduates typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience and certifications. Alumni who continue their education or gain additional credentials may significantly increase their earning potential. Career counseling and partnerships with local employers further enhance employment opportunities, enabling graduates to achieve long-term financial stability and career growth.

Hazleton Area Career Center Faculty and Staff

Teachers and Staff

The center employs skilled instructors with extensive industry experience who provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills training. Administrative and support staff assist with admissions, financial aid, career services, and student life, ensuring that learners receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey.

Faculty Profiles

Faculty members possess expertise in technical fields such as health sciences, IT, culinary arts, business, cosmetology, and skilled trades. Many instructors hold professional licenses, certifications, or advanced degrees and bring real-world experience to their teaching. Their commitment to student success fosters practical skill development, critical thinking, and professional readiness.

Hazleton Area Career Center Campus and Student Life

Campus Life / Housing

Hazleton Area Career Center offers an engaging campus experience with clubs, career-focused events, and student organizations that promote professional growth and community engagement. The center does not provide on-campus housing, but nearby rental apartments, shared accommodations, and affordable housing options are accessible to students. Campus facilities include modern classrooms, labs, workshops, and communal spaces for study and social interaction.

Transportation

The campus is easily accessible via local roads, public transportation, and student carpooling options. Ample on-site parking is available for students and staff. Its location facilitates commuting for students living in Hazleton and surrounding areas while providing convenient access to local businesses, internship sites, and employment opportunities.