Sandhills Community College
General Information
About Sandhills Community College
Sandhills Community College (SCC) is a public community college based in Pinehurst, North Carolina, operating under the North Carolina Community College System. Chartered in 1963 and officially opened in 1965, SCC has grown to become a vital educational provider serving Moore and Hoke counties. The institution offers a mix of credit (degree, diploma, and certificate) and noncredit continuing education programs designed to meet workforce and transfer goals. Its mission emphasizes providing high-quality educational opportunities, promoting student success, and supporting the economic and community development of its service region.
With a multi-campus structure—including the main Pinehurst campus, Hoke Center, Robbins Center, and the Larry R. Caddell Public Safety Training Center—SCC works to make access to education more convenient for its students. The college also maintains the SandHoke Early College High School program, enabling high school students to earn college credit while completing their secondary education. SCC is accredited to award associate degrees and aligns many of its curricula with partner four-year institutions for transfer pathways. Through workforce training, technical programs, and liberal arts pathways, Sandhills Community College strives to be a community anchor for education and opportunity.
Contact Information
Address (Main / Pinehurst Campus): 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst, North Carolina 28374
Phone (Main Switchboard): 910-692-6185
Admissions / Curriculum Contact: 910-695-3725
Continuing Education Contact: 910-695-3980
SCC School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment | Chartered in 1963, first classes in 1965 |
| Type | Public community college |
| Parent System | North Carolina Community College System |
| President | Alexander “Sandy” Stewart (as of 2023) |
| Accreditation | Accredited by SACSCOC to award associate degrees |
| Campuses / Centers | Pinehurst, Hoke Center, Robbins Center, Public Safety Training Center |
| College Colors / Mascot | Burgundy, black, gray; Nickname: The Flyers |
| Motto / Tagline | Learn • Engage • Belong |
Sandhills Community College Rankings
| Category | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| National (U.S.) | Not ranked among four-year universities |
| Global | Not ranked globally |
Because Sandhills Community College is a regionally focused community college, it is generally excluded from broad national or global ranking lists. Its prestige is measured more by student success, retention, credential completion, and community impact.
Sandhills Community College Academics
Sandhills Community College Faculties / Departments
- University Transfer / Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Health Sciences / Allied Health
- Nursing / Practical Nursing
- Industrial & Engineering Technology
- Information Technology / Computer Science
- Public Safety / Criminal Justice
- Business, Management & Entrepreneurship
- Agriculture / Horticulture
- Continuing Education / Workforce Development
- Basic Skills / Adult Education
Sandhills Community College Courses and Programs / Majors
- Associate in Arts (for transfer)
- Associate in Science (for transfer)
- Associate in Applied Science degrees (various technical fields)
- Diplomas and certificates in fields such as Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Medical Lab Technology, Radiography, Surgical Technology
- Information Technology / Network Administration
- Industrial Technology / Mechatronics
- Criminal Justice / Public Safety
- Business Management
- Agriculture / Horticulture
- Public Health / Allied Health
- Continuing education and workforce training in trades, healthcare, and community services
Online Learning
Sandhills Community College offers a number of online and hybrid courses aimed at increasing flexibility for students. Many general education, transfer, and technical courses are offered in fully online formats or as hybrids combining in-person labs with remote instruction. These online and hybrid options help students who commute or balance work and home responsibilities to complete their degrees or certificates.
Average Test Scores
| Test | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | Not reported / not required | Not reported |
| ACT | Not reported / not required | Not reported |
| GRE / Other | Not applicable | Not applicable |
SCC does not routinely require standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for admissions into its associate or technical programs. Instead, placement assessments or program prerequisites may guide course placement.
Retention and Graduation Rates
SCC has a retention rate of about 70 percent for full-time undergraduate students, meaning roughly seven in ten first-time full-time students return for their second year. Its retention performance is comparable to or slightly above average for community colleges. For graduation and completion, SCC reports that about 60.7 percent of first-time credential-seeking students complete, transfer, or remain enrolled within four years (150 percent of normal time). The transfer-out rate (students moving to four-year institutions) is approximately 19.9 percent. In recent reporting, the three-year graduation rate hovers near 40 percent, and the four-year rate around 45 percent. Student-to-faculty ratio is near 13:1, allowing more personalized instruction and interaction.
Sandhills Community College Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
SCC practices broad-access admissions. It does not typically require minimum GPA, SAT, or ACT thresholds for admission into general associate or technical programs. Applicants are evaluated on eligibility (high school diploma or equivalent) rather than on standardized exam performance.
Sandhills Community College Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate / Status |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 100 % (open admissions) |
Because SCC is a public community college providing access to higher education for its region, virtually all applicants who meet the basic eligibility criteria are accepted.
Sandhills Community College Application Requirements
Prospective students must complete an application to SCC, submit proof of high school graduation or GED, and provide official transcripts. Transfer students may submit college transcripts for evaluation of transfer credit. Depending on the program, students may need to take placement or reading/writing assessment tests. For certain health or technical programs, additional prerequisites, immunization records, background checks, or technical admissions interviewing may apply. Students must also provide proof of residency for tuition classification purposes. The admissions office often guides applicants through program selection, course planning, and financial aid consultation to ensure alignment with student goals.
Application Process
- Submit the application form to SCC and designate campus or program choice.
- Provide high school or GED transcripts, and any prior college transcripts for transfers.
- Complete placement assessments (if required) for English, reading, or math.
- Meet with an academic advisor to plan program roadmap.
- Register for classes within the enrollment period.
- If applicable, satisfy program-specific prerequisites or clearances prior to class start.
Sandhills Community College Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Term / Session | Typical Deadline / Enrollment Period |
|---|---|
| Fall Semester | Enrollment opens in summer; registration continues until classes begin |
| Spring Semester | Registration opens in December / January prior to term |
| Summer Session | Registration in late spring prior to summer term start |
| Rolling / Continuous Enrollment | Many programs accept applications until filled, especially for non-credit or workforce education |
Because SCC operates across multiple campuses and program cohorts, deadlines vary by program and location. Early application is encouraged for priority registration and financial aid.
Essay Prompt
SCC generally does not require an essay or personal statement as part of the standard admission into associate or technical programs.
Sandhills Community College Scholarships
SCC offers financial aid opportunities including federal grants (such as Pell), state scholarships, institutional scholarships, program-specific awards, and payment plans. Roughly 49 percent of undergraduate students receive some form of grant or loan assistance. The default rate on student loans among SCC graduates is notably low—zero percent in recent reporting—reflecting responsible lending and repayment practices.
Sandhills Community College Tuition and Fees
| Category | Estimate / Amount |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition & Fees | Based on community college rates in North Carolina (modest per credit cost) |
| Books & Supplies | Varies by program, especially labs or health programs |
| Other Fees | Program or lab fees specific to technical or healthcare courses |
| Net Price After Aid | Many students pay substantially less after grants or scholarships |
Because SCC’s tuition and fees vary by residency, program, and number of credits, precise figures depend on student course load and program choices.
Sandhills Community College Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
In recent enrollment data, SCC serves around 3,824 students. Of these, approximately 1,242 are full-time, and 2,582 are part-time, making full-time enrollment about 32.5 percent. The racial and ethnic composition includes about 53 percent identifying as White, 15.7 percent as Black or African American, 14.9 percent Hispanic or Latino, 5.31 percent two or more races, 2.41 percent Native American or Alaska Native, and smaller percentages of Asian and other groups. Gender distribution favors female students, with women representing a majority.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Nearly half (49 percent) of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid via grants or loans, indicating a significant proportion of students from lower-income backgrounds. The institution supports students with disabilities through accommodations, advising services, and learning support to promote equitable access and retention.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 3,824 |
| Full-Time Students | 1,242 (≈ 32.5 %) |
| Part-Time Students | 2,582 (≈ 67.5 %) |
| Gender Ratio | More female than male; female students predominate |
| Students Receiving Aid | ~49 % receive grants/loans |
University Diversity
Sandhills Community College embraces diversity as a foundational element of its mission to serve its regional community. The student population draws from rural, suburban, and small town backgrounds, bringing varied life experiences, cultures, and perspectives into the classroom. The mix of ethnicities, ages, and socioeconomic backgrounds helps foster peer learning and cultural competence, especially relevant in health sciences, public service, and community-focused fields. SCC also values serving nontraditional adult learners, workforce students, and those seeking career change, further enhancing diversity of experience. The institution strives to create inclusive support services and collaborative learning environments so that diversity becomes a strength, preparing graduates to work in multicultural settings.
Average Earnings
Data on specific average earnings for Sandhills graduates vary by program. However, many SCC alumni enter high-demand sectors such as nursing, allied health, information technology, and industrial trades. Graduates in technical and healthcare fields often command stable entry-level wages, which can increase as they gain experience, pursue certifications, or advance into leadership roles. Those in transfer pathways may pursue higher-paying roles after completing bachelor’s degrees. Because SCC aligns much of its curriculum with workforce needs and maintains transfer partnerships, alumni are often well positioned to increase their earnings over time as they progress in their careers.
Sandhills Community College Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Sandhills Community College employs dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to supporting student success, curriculum quality, and community engagement. Faculty include instructors with terminal degrees, professional credentials, and real-world experience in their fields. Staff roles encompass admissions, advising, student services, continuing education, financial aid, campus operations, and technical support. The college maintains a relatively favorable student-to-faculty ratio (approximately 13:1), enabling faculty to engage more closely with students and provide personalized instruction.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty at SCC often blend academic credentials with industry backgrounds—especially in technical, healthcare, and business fields—ensuring their teaching remains relevant and up to date. Many serve as advisors to students, oversee internships and experiential learning engagements, and contribute to curriculum development. Some faculty are published or active in professional associations, leveraging their expertise to benefit students. Their achievements may include securing grants, leading program accreditation reviews, mentoring students to success in licensure exams, and building partnerships with local employers to support graduates.
Sandhills Community College Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
SCC does not offer traditional on-campus housing; students typically reside in nearby towns or within commuting distance. Campuses foster vibrant campus life through student clubs, organizations, cultural events, and learning centers. The Pinehurst campus includes facilities such as the Katharine L. Boyd Library, Owens Auditorium, fitness center, gymnasium, cafeteria, horticultural gardens, and performance and recreational spaces. The campus also hosts the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens—27 acres of botanical landscapes open to the public with collections of native plants, wetland trails, formal gardens, and more. This natural environment adds character to campus life and offers opportunities for students in horticulture and environmental studies.
Transportation
Transportation to SCC centers is typically by personal vehicle or local transit where available. The campuses are located along major roads, and parking is available for commuting students. Some centers are accessible by public bus routes in the region. Because many programs require on-site labs, clinics, or workshops, reliable commuting is essential. While SCC does not operate its own shuttle service, it provides maps, parking information, and supports students in coordinating travel logistics to remote centers such as the Hoke Center and Robbins Center.