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  • Credit Or Non-Credit

    Not sure which courses to take?

    Carroll offers a wide range of classes and programs for a wide range of learners. Let’s take a look at which path is right for you.

    Credit

    If you plan to earn an associate degree or to transfer to a four-year college, you will take credit classes.  Many professions require a minimum of an associate or bachelor’s degree, and one of these degrees often translates to higher earning potential. The classes you will take depend upon the degree program you choose, but ultimately, they will culminate in an associate degree in one of the seven areas of study offered at Carroll.

    Non-credit

    Are you looking for career training, including licensures, certifications or industry credentials? Are you in need of professional development or Continuing Education Units (CEUs)? Are you interested in personal enrichment? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then non-credit courses may be your answer. Most continuing education programs can be completed within weeks or months, instead of years.


    Answer these questions to help you decide…

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    Are you planning to use your Carroll education to prepare you for a specific career or to transfer to a Bachelor’s degree program?

    • Credit courses on the path to an associate degree open doors to a wide range of careers, including many in healthcare, fitness and wellness, and more. An associate degree is a cost effective and practical path toward professional preparation. 
    • The associate degree is also a perfect starting point for transferring to a four-year college program. Carroll has transfer agreements with virtually every college and university in Maryland and many around the country that make it easy to transfer credits. You’ll save thousands of dollars on your first two years of schooling and improve your chances of earning a bachelor’s degree from your college of choice.
    • Non-credit programs offer training and certification for a range of skilled career paths including many in technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, childcare, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, welding and more. Some specific non-credit experience may also be applied towards credit hours at the College.

    Are you interested in advancing your career, switching professions, pursuing a personal passion, get a GED or improve your English fluency?

    • For many working professionals, continuing education, advanced certification or licensure is the path to career growth and advancement. Depending on the credential requirements for your field, CEUs or Continuing Education Credits may also be required to maintain your professional credentials.
    • If you are looking for a career change or a shift in direction, Carroll’s non-credit career training courses can help you redefine your future. Non-credit programs lead to valuable credentials and are completed in less time than a credit program and can be an important first step to a career pathway and a degree.  
    • If you want to take classes for your own personal enrichment, you will most likely want to take non-credit classes. You can choose from a variety of personal enrichment or career development courses. You can also take credit courses without having to work toward a degree or certificate.
    • Completing a high school diploma or improving your English in a supportive, welcoming learning community are also excellent reasons for participating in our specially-designed non-credit courses. 

    Are you interested in learning for your own personal enrichment without earning grades?

    • Non-credit personal enrichment courses have no assessment or grading requirements. While most workforce courses have competencies assessments, students may opt out of assessments in all except courses required for state licensure or certification. 
    • Credit courses may also be audited (no credits awarded) for your own interest. Some courses are co-listed as non-credit courses which allows you to register through Continuing Education  to eliminate some fees and without formally enrolling in the College.  

    Are you trying to decide on a career path that is right for you?

    There are many options for your education. How to choose the best path is not always clear. If you are unsure of the career you would like to pursue, start with the Career Development Center's Gaining Self Knowledge.

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