SALISBURY — As many ITT Technical Institute students face the recent challenge of finding a new way to achieve their educational goals, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College officials are inviting them to consider the college a new academic home.

While the fall semester is underway, it’s not too late to enroll in classes. The college offers courses beginning in October and November that can help interested students register for the courses they need.

The college has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in the Southern states, since 1970, and recently received reaffirmation of accreditation through year 2026.

“We are ready and eager to work with ITT Tech students who are hoping to continue working toward their education,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. “The college is attainable and affordable, with a large majority of students receiving federal financial aid.”

Rowan-Cabarrus is a perfect home for the many displaced ITT Tech students due to the college’s recognition as a leader in digital and online offerings, as well as accolades specifically as a cybersecurity academic trailblazer, the news release said.

“Rowan-Cabarrus offers numerous degrees that you can complete entirely online. In fact, our online courses and online faculty have won numerous national awards,” said Spalding. “We were even named one of the top 10 digital community colleges in the U.S. for the second year in a row.”

In recent years, the college has developed more condensed courses and expanded its online offerings.

“Colleges used to offer sixteen-week, semester-long courses – and that was about it. But today, thanks to creative scheduling and technology, Rowan-Cabarrus is able to offer classes in half the time, or less,” said Dr. Michael Quillen, vice president of academic programs.

The college places a strong emphasis on technology, a broad, in-demand and well-paying field that is used across a variety of industries, as it sees the field as a great option for someone entering the workforce or considering a new career.

The technology programs at Rowan-Cabarrus provide students with a sound understanding of the science, technology and applications essential for successful employment in their respective fields by incorporating the competencies of industry-recognized standards. Graduates of these programs should qualify for employment in entry-level positions with businesses, educational systems and governmental agencies.

Cybersecurity, in particular, is one of the college’s strengths in the IT field.

“Our security program was heavily vetted by the NSA and they were particularly impressed with our work to secure articulation agreements with four-year institutions such as Champlain and Catawba College,” said Zackary Hubbard, program chair for the college’s Computer Technology Integration program.

Currently, there are only a small number of educational institutions nationwide with this specific designation, and Rowan-Cabarrus is one of only two community colleges in the state of North Carolina. Upon completion of the program, participants will be prepared for careers in both local and national industries such as law enforcement and banking.

“Regardless of what you’re interested in, it’s not too late to start your education this fall. The great thing about the mini-semester is that it gives students the opportunity to earn full course credits in half the time,” said Spalding. “Between the mini-semester and our continuing education classes that are provided on a rotating basis year-round, students can enroll in courses at any time to get the education they need.”

ITT Tech students should reach out directly to Holly Vanager at holly.vanagercrummel@rccc.edu or 704-216-3611. The college has eight-week classes beginning Oct. 17.